Austin, TX — [July 22, 2025] — Easterseals Lonestar today announced a new partnership between the Teaching the Autism Community Trades school and the Greenleaf Neurodiversity Community School to launch a specialized cybersecurity training program for neurodiverse students in Austin, Texas. Designed by TACT, the program will begin in Fall 2025 and offer industry-aligned, hands-on instruction that prepares students for careers in one of the fastest-growing sectors.

TACT, a fully accredited school founded in Colorado to provide skills-based training for individuals with autism, boasts an 83% job placement rate—far surpassing the national average of 10% for this population. Its individualized, competency-based cybersecurity program offers opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications such as ISC2, CompTIA, and CodeHS, preparing graduates for employment as Tier 1 SOC analysts and other cybersecurity roles.

Greenleaf Neurodiversity Community School, operated by Easterseals Lonestar, is a community charter school tailored to the learning needs of neurodivergent students. This partnership marks the first time TACT’s cybersecurity curriculum will be delivered in Texas, expanding access to a proven training model for students with autism and related differences.

“This collaboration gives our students a powerful new opportunity to prepare for careers in a sector that needs their talents,” said Dr. Mary Van Haneghan, Executive Director of Easterseals Lonestar. “TACT’s model is deeply aligned with our mission to provide transformative support that meets individuals where they are—and equips them to thrive.”

“We are thrilled to bring this transformative program to Greenleaf,” said Mandy Pruitt, Head of School at Greenleaf Neurodiversity Community School. “TACT’s model aligns perfectly with our mission to foster independence and purpose in every student. Together, we’re opening new doors and building real pathways to the future for our students.”

“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 Greenleaf, we’re expanding opportunity and helping more students access the tech economy on their terms.”

The program will feature small class sizes, individualized instruction, and wraparound supports, including job coaching and career exploration.

This initiative builds on The Fedcap Group’s national commitment to improving economic mobility for individuals with disabilities. With workforce gaps in cybersecurity widening—and over 500,000 individuals with autism expected to age out of the U.S. education system over the next decade—this partnership provides a scalable model for targeted, high-impact tech training.

About Easterseals Lonestar

Easterseals Lonestar is part of The Fedcap Group and provides vital services to individuals with disabilities, veterans, and families across Texas. Through education, workforce training, residential services, and community-based programs, Easterseals Lonestar empowers people of all ages to achieve greater independence.

About TACT (Teaching the Autism Community Trades)

Founded in Colorado, TACT is the nation’s leading trade and technical training program for individuals with autism. TACT offers accredited, hands-on training in fields ranging from woodworking and automotive technology to cybersecurity. With an 83% job placement rate, TACT provides students with autism the tools, confidence, and certifications to thrive in competitive industries. TACT is a member of The Fedcap Group.

Media Contact:

Jim Malatras, JMalatras@fedcap.org