TACT Expands Its Model by Co-Locating at Ascendigo, Bringing Trade Training Directly to Individuals on the Autism Spectrum

CARBONDALE, CO — Fedcap’s Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT) announced a new partnership with Ascendigo Autism Services to launch a specialized general maintenance training program for neurodiverse students in Carbondale, Colorado.

Designed by TACT, the program will begin in March 2026 and provide industry-aligned, hands-on instruction preparing students for careers in general maintenance and property management. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill development, safety training, and workplace readiness, supporting pathways into competitive, integrated employment.

Founded in Englewood, Colorado, TACT is a fully accredited school delivering skills-based training for individuals with autism and boasts an 83% job placement rate—far exceeding the national employment rate neurodiverse individuals. Its individualized, competency-based model enables students to earn industry-recognized certifications while building confidence and independence.

Ascendigo Autism Services is a nonprofit organization based in Carbondale dedicated to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum through adventure-based experiences, life skills enrichment, vocational training, and community inclusion. Through innovative, strengths-based programming, Ascendigo works to unlock potential, foster independence, and create meaningful connections across the lifespan.

“By co-locating TACT’s programs at Ascendigo, this partnership meets students with autism where they are—integrating education and workforce training directly into trusted community settings,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of Fedcap. “TACT has shown that when training is built around individual strengths, supports, and employer needs, students succeed. Partnering with Ascendigo allows us to expand access, respond to workforce demand in the skilled trades, and scale impact in a way that is inclusive and sustainable.”

“Our goal has always been to empower students with autism through meaningful, strength-based training that leads to real careers—not just jobs,” said Becky Mershon, Interim President of TACT. “By partnering with Ascendigo Autism Services, we’re expanding career opportunities in Colorado and helping more students access education and competitive, integrated employment on their own terms.”

“This partnership represents a powerful next step in expanding meaningful vocational pathways for individuals on the autism spectrum in our community,” said Amy Grogan, President & CEO of Ascendigo Autism Services. “By combining Ascendigo’s deep local support network with TACT’s proven, industry-aligned training model, we are creating real opportunities for students to build skills, confidence, and long-term careers that align with their strengths and interests.”

The program will feature small class sizes, individualized instruction, and wraparound supports, including job coaching and career exploration. This initiative builds on Fedcap’s national commitment to advancing economic mobility for individuals with disabilities. As workforce shortages continue across the skilled trades—and with more than 500,000 individuals with autism expected to age out of the U.S. education system over the next decade—this partnership offers a scalable, high-impact model for inclusive workforce development.