On International Day of People with Disability themed “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, auticon proudly celebrates the achievements of their autistic Technologists in advancing progress. Over the last year auticon and Bupa have worked together to demonstrate how inclusive workplaces unlock innovation, efficiency, and a sense of community.
auticon Technologist Chris Larkin, who is on the autism spectrum, has been working on contract with Bupa for over a year. His contributions have gone far beyond his initial remit of hardware imaging.
Having a unique capability in 3D design Chris has applied his skills in unexpected ways to yield better outcomes for the team at Bupa. He has designed 3D-printed stands to wipe multiple devices concurrently, he has also created custom holders that improved efficiency in Bupa’s IT build room. In doing this Chris has consistently delivered practical solutions that enhance team productivity.
He’s also affectionately become known as “the 3D printer guy” in the office, sharing his hobby with colleagues by creating personalised gifts and mentoring others interested in the technology.
“I enjoy solving problems with hardware and finding ways to make processes more efficient. The 3D printing projects started as a hobby, but it’s been great to see how I can add real value to the team,” said Chris.
Preeti Lamba, Technical Support Manager at Bupa has been supervising Chris’s work. She has fostered an environment where Chris’s strengths can truly thrive. By adapting communication styles, encouraging autonomy, and recognising his innovations, she has built a workplace culture that values neurodiverse talent. Her management style has allowed Chris to not only contribute technically but also socially, broadening his horizons through workplace community.
“Chris has a unique ability to spot problems and solve them without being asked,” said Preeti. “His creativity and initiative have lifted our team’s capabilities, and his enthusiasm has brought a new dimension to our workplace culture.”
This partnership reflects auticon’s mission to create meaningful careers for autistic professionals. According to the NDIS, autism is the number one primary disability among participants. Yet despite this prevalence, autistic Australians face significant barriers to employment. The ABS reports that the unemployment rate for autistic people of working age is 18.2% – more than double the rate for people with disability (7.5%) and almost six times the rate of people without disability (3.1%). These figures highlight the urgent need for inclusive employment pathways.
Ivonne Ranisch, Interim CEO of auticon Australia and New Zealand, said: “Chris’s story shows what’s possible when organisations embrace neurodiversity. Inclusive management, like Preeti’s, doesn’t just support individuals – it advances social progress by unlocking innovation and building stronger teams. At auticon, we believe every autistic person deserves the opportunity to contribute.”
As Australia looks ahead, stories like Chris’s highlight the importance of fostering disability-inclusive societies. By recognising the talents of autistic professionals and supporting inclusive leadership, organisations can drive both social progress and business success. Bupa’s collaboration with auticon demonstrates how inclusion is not just a value but a catalyst for innovation, efficiency, and stronger communities.
