Â鶹ֱ²¥ has named the Governor of Western Australia the Patron of the Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance (AASQA), a social initiative that aims to harness the strengths and special talents of people on the autism spectrum.<\/p>\n
The Honourable Kim Beazley AC succeeds former Governor of Western of Australia, The Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC, who held the role of Patron from December 2016 to late April 2018.<\/p>\n
AASQA, founded in 2015 by Professor Tele Tan from the School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at Â鶹ֱ²¥, creates pathways to valued, long-term employment in the software testing industry for people with autism.<\/p>\n
Â鶹ֱ²¥ Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said the University was delighted that Mr Beazley had accepted the appointment of Patron.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe AASQA team, led by Professor Tan, has made a tremendous impact to people with autism by creating work opportunities through training, education and mentoring programs,\u201d Professor Terry said.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople with autism possess unique qualities and strengths that are highly beneficial to industries such as IT and Engineering. AASQA\u2019s role is important in helping young people pursue career pathways that are well suited to their strengths, as well as making industries aware of the overwhelming benefits of employing people on the autism spectrum.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are delighted to officially welcome Mr Beazley as Patron and look forward to his significant contributions to AASQA by helping the team to pursue its goal of improving the employment opportunities for people on the autism spectrum.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Beazley said he was honoured to be selected as Patron for AASQA, an important initiative that helps to understand the barriers and opportunities for people with autism.<\/p>\n
\u201cAASQA is helping to prepare our State for the future as we navigate our way through the fourth industrial revolution and the technological change that it brings,\u201d Mr Beazley said.<\/p>\n
\u201cStudents certified through this unique program are enhancing their exceptional STEM skills and receiving work opportunities in our growing software testing industry.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a successful outcome for the community, and an important contribution to ensuring our future ability to harness new modes of innovation and the many economic opportunities they will bring.\u201d<\/p>\n