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Friday, June 13, 2025
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How MTS Logistics became leader in hiring those on autism spectrum

Days before annual fund-raising bike event, company detail success working with Spectrum Works to create hiring program

In an industry known for moving goods around the world, MTS Logistics is focused on moving something even more important forward: autism employment. Through its longstanding partnership with nonprofit Spectrum Works, the logistics company is leading the charge in providing autistic young adults with job training, real-world work experience, and a pathway to permanent employment.

This Saturday, hundreds of cyclists will hit the streets of New York City to support that mission.

Now in its 15th year, the MTS Bike Tour for Autism Acceptance isn’t just a logistics industry community event; it’s a catalyst for workforce inclusion.

With a goal of raising $150,000, the tour helps fund programs that close staggering employment gaps, including:

  • While 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with autism in the U.S., only 15% of autistic adults are employed;
  • Due to the scarcity of opportunities in supportive work environments, nearly half of 25-year-olds with autism have never held a paying job.

Over $100,000 has already been raised, and with just weeks to go, organizers are in the home stretch of their efforts to meet, and hopefully exceed, their goal.

“Every year, this event reminds us that community can be a catalyst for real change,” Spectrum Works CEO Ann Marie Sullivan said. “We’ve seen students walk into their first day of job training with anxiety and leave with confidence, pride, and purpose. The funds raised through this event helps to build that transformation and that’s the kind of impact that lasts far beyond just the bike tour.”

Spectrum Works partners with leading companies, including Rent the Runway, IKEA, Old Navy, Bergen Logistics, and American Dream, to provide internships, job coaching, and paid work experiences for autistic individuals.

One standout story is Sywon Sims, who trained at Rent the Runway’s Secaucus facility. After proving himself as a valuable and dedicated worker, Sywon was offered a permanent position.

“I used to be nervous about finding a job but now I’m confident, and I know I’m making a difference at work,” Sywon shared.

The logistics industry has emerged as a leader in this space, demonstrating that hiring autistic individuals isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart business decision. Through trailblazing partnerships, MTS Logistics and Spectrum Works are proving that purposeful action can create both economic and human impact.

Want to help/hire?

Spectrum Works is a (501)(c)(3) designated nonprofit organization located in Secaucus, New Jersey dedicated to providing job training and employment opportunities for autistic high school students and other young adults on the spectrum.

If you are interested in learning more about starting an autism employment program at your company, please reach out to [email protected].

“Creating inclusive spaces where every person is valued is critical,” said Sedat Saka, president of MTS Logistics and longtime champion of the event. “This bike tour is a celebration of what’s possible when we come together. It’s about giving hope, creating jobs, and showing the world that everyone deserves a place in the workforce and in our communities.”

What began in logistics is now inspiring a broader shift.

Spectrum Works and its partners are paving the way for other sectors to follow — showing that inclusion is not industry specific, it’s universally transformative. From warehouses to retail stores and logistics hubs to learning centers, businesses across industries are discovering the value of a neurodiverse workforce.

In addition to the logistics and manufacturing industry, Spectrum Works has forged influential partnerships in the retail and experiential education sectors with companies like American Dream, Walgreens, Sesame Street Learn and Play, and others. These collaborations reflect a growing national movement to build workplaces where autistic individuals are not only welcomed but empowered to thrive.

This year’s ride begins in Lower Manhattan, crosses the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, and ends with a celebratory brunch at Brighton Beach. During the event, attendees will hear firsthand from Spectrum Works participants and leadership about the life-changing impact of these programs.

Thanks to returning partner Turkish Philanthropy Funds, bike rentals are free for all participants. Other event sponsors include: Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, Sino Logistics, Orient Star Group, Turkish Airlines, CIF, Jetco Delivery, FM, and Boucher + Co.

The 15th Annual Charity Bike Tour event promises a day of fun for a great cause. Interested participants can become a sponsor company, make a donation, and learn more about the advantages of participating in this special event on the event website.

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