Class of 2024: Ohi Ahmed uses data to help bridge employment gaps for autistic Canadians

Before landing at the University of Calgary, Ohi Ahmed was a banker. He already had two degrees in business administration and international relations from the University of Dhaka under his belt and had worked in corporate banking. When it came time to choose a capstone research project for his master’s studies at the School of Public Policy, he chose to explore a new horizon.   

His research topic: employment readiness and workplace integration policies for autistic Canadians — a group that experiences significant employment hurdles. By combining quantitative and qualitative analysis to better understand their unique needs, strengths and experiences, we can make inroads to overcoming barriers, argues Ahmed. His research provides recommendations for data-driven policy reforms, decision-making and organizational development, improving employment outcomes and quality of life for autistic individuals.

Integrating autistic Canadians in the workforce is not just the right thing to do, it’s also good for business. “Without a win-win strategy, nothing can be achieved,” he emphasizes.

Now graduated with his Master of Public Policy, Ahmed works as a research assistant at the Simpson Centre, using his policy research skills to help explore new opportunities in agricultural financing, commercialization and eco-friendly practices.