Living with autism and working in tech brings together focus, creativity, and a unique connection with technology that many describe as “magic.” As a web designer running Dot Jess, I’ve built a life and career where my strengths as an autistic individual shape how I approach my work and challenges. For me, being autistic isn’t just about attention to detail or efficiency—it’s also about creative thinking, problem-solving, and a natural affinity for technology. And in today’s landscape, where AI-generated content is everywhere, these strengths allow me to stand out in ways that may not always be obvious.

The Autistic Advantage: Creative Thinking and Outside-the-Box Solutions

One of the biggest misconceptions about autism is that it’s all about rigid thinking. In reality, many autistic individuals possess a highly creative mind that thrives on solving problems from fresh angles. In my work, I often find that I can approach challenges in web design or user experience with a perspective that others might miss. When faced with a tricky client project, I naturally look beyond the conventional answers, exploring unexpected ideas to create a final product that’s both functional and distinctive.

This way of thinking is a huge advantage in tech, where being able to think outside the box often leads to innovative solutions and unique designs. It’s like having a built-in toolkit for problem-solving that’s driven by creativity, curiosity, and a deep-seated desire to find answers that not everyone else would see.

A “Magic” Connection to Technology

People sometimes describe my relationship with technology as “magic.” I’ve often found that I have a natural, almost instinctual understanding of tech—whether it’s coding, using software, or navigating the latest gadgets. I’m able to see the underlying patterns and connections in a way that feels like second nature. While this may seem like magic to some, I think it’s part of the autistic mind’s affinity for systems and logical structures. For me, tech isn’t a challenge; it’s an extension of how I think and process the world, making it feel more like a partner than a tool.

In an industry that’s constantly evolving, this connection to technology allows me to stay ahead. When new trends or tools emerge, I’m not only quick to pick them up but often driven to understand them deeply and explore their full potential. This ability isn’t always easy to put into words, but it’s a type of intuition that lets me adapt and grow in the tech landscape, giving my work a dynamic edge that feels uniquely my own.

Balancing Clarity and Creativity in the Age of AI

With the rise of AI writing tools, there’s an interesting twist: people sometimes mistake my writing for AI-generated content. My natural way of communicating—direct, clear, and process-driven—overlaps with the logical, pattern-based structure of AI text. But while my style can resemble AI, my work carries the human touch of lived experience and creativity that AI lacks.

It’s ironic that the structured clarity often associated with AI can also be a hallmark of autistic writing, where precision and focus are strengths. However, my work goes beyond structure; it reflects the creative, outside-the-box thinking and natural tech intuition that only a human mind—particularly an autistic one—can bring.

Embracing My Unique Place in Tech

Being autistic in the tech world means navigating a blend of structure and creativity, routine and innovation. My journey isn’t just about efficiency or focus; it’s about seeing the world through a lens that allows for both unique insights and “magic” moments of connection with technology. This perspective is something I bring to my work every day, creating designs and solutions that are both thoughtful and innovative.

In a world where AI is advancing and often mimicking human qualities, I’m reminded of what makes my approach special—the blend of creativity, focus, and an intuitive grasp of technology that makes my work feel distinct. Living and working with autism is a strength, not a barrier, giving me a voice and a vision in tech that’s as innovative as it is uniquely human.

Jess Jones,

Owner of DotJess
Neurodivergent Woman