Interview with Purdue University
Recently I was asked to answer some questions for a qualitative study. The questions and my answers really helped me to focus on the 'WHY' that we do this project. I feel more energized after reading my answers. I thought it was important to share those statements here:
First and foremost, explain what Einstein Productions is dedicated to?
The main focus of Einstein Productions is a training facility where individuals with high functioning autism/Aspergers Syndrome (associates) learn skills in digital photography, digital video, broadcast, web page design and social interaction.
This is accomplished by offering individuals with digital media skills (mentors) an office space to grow their own freelance business, in exchange for space, equipment and software, the mentors train the associates on digital media skills and work together on client productions.
Einstein Productions prides itself on being a place where everyone is a success story. "Everyone just wants to feel they have a place in this world," Burns said. "Autistic individuals have the same hopes and dreams, it's just getting people to understand. This company helps them achieve that."
How did you create Einstein Productions?
EP was created in a basement – much like Apple was created in a garage! We were discussing with our sons the need for work after high school. Both had a difficult time in social situations and could not communicate well with employers or people they were not comfortable/familiar with – this makes it hard to get past an interview. So we decided if they were to have employment - why not have their own business where they didn’t have to worry about getting fired. They thought about their interests and decided on Photography. The idea expanded to include recent college graduates who may need equipment to keep their skills current. The combination of the two groups worked wonderful to move EP ahead.
Were you responding to a need?
Yes, Individuals with Asperger Syndrome often have a difficult time finding work and being understood. This program could help with training both individuals with AS in the work environment and also potential bosses in the world of AS.
Did you receive any sort of help?
Not really, initially we had sent cold letters to companies for donations – we did receive equipment from Digital Workforce (Illinois) and Furniture from Furniture resource, but the majority of our startup capital came from family and friends or our own pockets. We continue to struggle with finances and are always looking for grants.
What problems did you run into while building Einstein Productions?
Not having have a business background has slowed us down at times. We didn’t know about occupancy permits (needed a boiler inspection – but we didn’t have a boiler!) or insurance. One insurance company would not represent us unless we had wander insurance – obviously this company did not know about Asperger Syndrome.
At any point, did you feel like giving up?
Constantly and still do. But then I look at how far the members of the group have come and the impact it has had on their lives – it means too much to them to give up.
What motivated you to continue?
This group of people have had many setbacks in their life. People have told them they won’t amount to much, won’t be able to fit into society, will never amount to much. Watching them grow in this company has helped to motivate us and keep the doors open. We know that they have struggles and keep moving forward – we learn from each other and lean on progress that can be made.
How do you measure your success?
Our return on investment is the growth in our members. Many have gone from being depressed and lonely to a colleague that is relied upon and looked up to by other members of the group. They have moved out of their parents’ home and care working on independence.
We have recently started designing displays for our craft fair booths.
That is success.
We aren't rich, nor will we ever be, but our group focuses on increasing the life qualities and self-image. In that case we are millionaires! We just hope to someday be billionaires~
First and foremost, explain what Einstein Productions is dedicated to?
The main focus of Einstein Productions is a training facility where individuals with high functioning autism/Aspergers Syndrome (associates) learn skills in digital photography, digital video, broadcast, web page design and social interaction.
This is accomplished by offering individuals with digital media skills (mentors) an office space to grow their own freelance business, in exchange for space, equipment and software, the mentors train the associates on digital media skills and work together on client productions.
Einstein Productions prides itself on being a place where everyone is a success story. "Everyone just wants to feel they have a place in this world," Burns said. "Autistic individuals have the same hopes and dreams, it's just getting people to understand. This company helps them achieve that."
How did you create Einstein Productions?
EP was created in a basement – much like Apple was created in a garage! We were discussing with our sons the need for work after high school. Both had a difficult time in social situations and could not communicate well with employers or people they were not comfortable/familiar with – this makes it hard to get past an interview. So we decided if they were to have employment - why not have their own business where they didn’t have to worry about getting fired. They thought about their interests and decided on Photography. The idea expanded to include recent college graduates who may need equipment to keep their skills current. The combination of the two groups worked wonderful to move EP ahead.
Were you responding to a need?
Yes, Individuals with Asperger Syndrome often have a difficult time finding work and being understood. This program could help with training both individuals with AS in the work environment and also potential bosses in the world of AS.
Did you receive any sort of help?
Not really, initially we had sent cold letters to companies for donations – we did receive equipment from Digital Workforce (Illinois) and Furniture from Furniture resource, but the majority of our startup capital came from family and friends or our own pockets. We continue to struggle with finances and are always looking for grants.
What problems did you run into while building Einstein Productions?
Not having have a business background has slowed us down at times. We didn’t know about occupancy permits (needed a boiler inspection – but we didn’t have a boiler!) or insurance. One insurance company would not represent us unless we had wander insurance – obviously this company did not know about Asperger Syndrome.
At any point, did you feel like giving up?
Constantly and still do. But then I look at how far the members of the group have come and the impact it has had on their lives – it means too much to them to give up.
What motivated you to continue?
This group of people have had many setbacks in their life. People have told them they won’t amount to much, won’t be able to fit into society, will never amount to much. Watching them grow in this company has helped to motivate us and keep the doors open. We know that they have struggles and keep moving forward – we learn from each other and lean on progress that can be made.
How do you measure your success?
Our return on investment is the growth in our members. Many have gone from being depressed and lonely to a colleague that is relied upon and looked up to by other members of the group. They have moved out of their parents’ home and care working on independence.
We have recently started designing displays for our craft fair booths.
That is success.
We aren't rich, nor will we ever be, but our group focuses on increasing the life qualities and self-image. In that case we are millionaires! We just hope to someday be billionaires~
Einstein Productions attend temple grandin event
Einstein productions attended the recent Autism Society of Southeast Wisconsin employment event with Temple Grandin! Vice President Matt Sabady was able to speak with Temple and even picked up a few autographed copies of her recent books.