Participating agencies will be randomized, with 2/3 of agencies receiving IPS first. The estimated total number of agencies = 6 (each referring 10 consumers), meaning that 4 agencies (40 clients) would be assigned to receive IPS training first. These agencies will be expected to deliver IPS services for a duration of 12 months.

One third of the agencies (approximately 2 agencies and 20 consumers) will be assigned to the wait-list control group will continue to provide their usual services during the first 12 months. In addition, clients of these agencies will be offered a Supportive Employment Intervention, which includes weekly sessions offering support with some help on employment-related skills such as resume building, job interviewing, and workplace communication strategies.

The Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) model is an evidence-based approach to supported employment designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve and maintain competitive integrated employment (CIE). IPS emphasizes person-centered planning, rapid engagement, and focusing on individual strengths and preferences. Key features include prioritizing CIE, eligibility based on the desire to work, integration of employment services with mental health support, rapid job searches, tailored job development, and time-unlimited, individualized support. IPS also provides benefits counseling to help participants manage employment while maintaining government benefits. For this study, IPS is adapted to meet the needs of autistic individuals by enhancing provider training and family involvement to improve outcomes.

Measure: Agency feasibility ratings and IPS fidelity reviews. Assessment Method: Trained IPS fidelity reviews will assess fidelity using the IPS Fidelity Scale (Bond et al., 2012) at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Additionally, feasibility will be assessed through participant, parent, and provider ratings on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = not feasible at all, 5 = highly feasible).

Expect outcome: Achieve good fidelity at the 12-month fidelity review. Achieve at least 75% feasibility.

Measure: CIE attainment log Assessment Method: Monthly reports on employment status will be collected via phone or in virtual meetings with providers. Employment status will be categorized as "Employed in CIE," "Not Employed," or "Transitioned Out of CIE." Expect outcome: Minimum of 50% CIE attainment success.

Measure: CIE retention log Assessment Method: Monthly reports on employment status will be collected via phone or in virtual meetings with providers. Employment status will be verified as "Employed in CIE," "Not Employed," or "Transitioned Out of CIE." Expect outcome: Minimum of 50% CIE retention.

Measure: Participant, parent, and provider satisfaction. Assessment Method: Surveys using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = not satisfied at all, 5 = very satisfied) to assess satisfaction with IPS services and overall perceived value of the intervention.

Expect outcome: Achieve at least 75% acceptability.

Measure: Family Engagement Survey Assessment Method: Monthly surveys will be collected via phone or online to collect information on family involvement and satisfaction with the services their family member is receiving. Family members/carers will rate their involvement and satisfaction on a Likert scale survey.