NFAR TECH

Our 8-month technical training program, NFAR Tech, is where inclusion begins for autistic individuals in San Diego looking to enter the high-tech workforce.

This program provides technical training and certification pathways for careers in technology. Offering both hard and soft skills training in a supportive, hands-on environment, participants are prepared to take the industry recognized ISTQB-CTFL certification and begin fulfilling careers as entry level software testers.

  • Skills learned: Software quality assurance testing processes, professional communication, and workplace social expectations
  • Certifications: Preparation for ISTQB-CTFL certification
  • Career paths: Entry level software testing

Through our NFAR Tech Program, individuals will receive:

Participants in the NFAR Tech program working at professional workstations during a software quality assurance training session.

Technical Training

Participants receive training in software quality assurance testing processes, including preparation and testing for industry recognized software tester certification (ISTQB-CTFL). Participants hone their skills testing iPhone apps, webpages and devices, and document issues as part of the software development effort.

Participants in the NFAR Tech program collaborating on a software quality assurance project during a classroom session.

Soft Skills Training

Soft skills are a necessary part of any job. Our soft skills training includes an executive functioning and evidence-based cognitive enhancement curriculum, as well as exercises to strengthen professional communication and social expectations in the workplace.

A participant in the NFAR Tech program using virtual reality equipment during a high-tech vocational training session.

Work Experience

Participants gain hands-on experience with real-world exercises using industry tools, work samples, and completing work projects in a simulated work environment.

Participants in the NFAR Tech program practicing software QA testing and data entry skills at computer workstations.

Job Search Preparation

Participants learn about the job market. They create a resume to reflect their new training and experience, and practice for job interviews. Industry guest speakers and tours enhance the participants’ understanding of the workplace and industry.

Program QUALIFICATIONS

Our program serves neurodiverse young adults 18+ that are:

  • High school graduates or GED recipients
  • Transitioning from school to work
  • Preparing for community college or post college
  • Preparing to join the workforce
  • Interested in the high-tech field
  • Able to follow instructions independently in an open classroom setting and seek help when needed

Program Details

  • Program Adaptations: Each cohort is a 6:1 participant to instructor ratio with a maximum of 12 participants. Instruction is tailored for the autistic learner, with a focus on technical skills attainment.
  • Format: Activity-based, hands-on learning in a small group. Instructor-led format. Real work projects and exercises in an office environment. Select computer-based learning assignments.
  • Program Length: Program is 3 hours per day, 5 days per week. Program is 8 months long. We work with industry connections to place program graduates into paid work internships and employment opportunities.

NFAR Vocational Training Center is conveniently located in the Scripps Ranch area of San Diego just off the I-15 freeway and Carroll Canyon Road, and with MTS bus service from the Miramar College transit center.

An instructor providing one-on-one guidance to a participant in the NFAR Tech software QA training program.
A participant in the NFAR Tech program practicing software testing and technical documentation on a laptop.

Interest Form

Are you interested in signing up for one of the programs? Please fill out an interest form to start the process. We will arrange to have you come in, tour the programs, and learn more.

FAQs

NFAR Tech is an 8-month vocational training program that prepares neurodivergent young adults for entry-level careers in the high-tech industry as software quality assurance testers, combining technical training, soft skills development, and real-world work experience.

The program prepares participants for the ISTQB-CTFL (International Software Testing Qualifications Board — Certified Tester Foundation Level), an industry-recognized software testing certification.

The program serves neurodiverse young adults 18 and older who have a high school diploma or GED, are interested in the tech field, and can follow instructions independently in an open classroom setting.

Participants test real iPhone apps, webpages, and devices, document software issues, and complete work projects in a simulated office environment — giving them practical, resume-ready experience before they graduate.

Yes — NFAR works with industry connections to place graduates into paid internships and employment opportunities in the high-tech field after completing the program.

To learn more, read our blog about how we help adults with autism start tech careers.