About Us

Exceptional Minds is a non-profit academy and studio preparing young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in animation, visual effects, 3D gaming and other related fields in the entertainment industry. We provide technical and work readiness training customized to help students achieve their full artistic and professional potential.

Exceptional Minds is comprised of a vocational academy, post graduate program, and professional post-production studios.

Our Vision

A future where the talents and perspectives of artists on the autism spectrum are vital to the advancement of a healthy, inclusive and more empowered society.

Our Mission

To cultivate the talents and skills of artists on the autism spectrum to facilitate their employment, self-advocacy and sharing of stories.

The Academy
The academy provides technical and work readiness training customized to help students achieve their artistic and professional potential with small group instruction in a full-time three-year program, private lessons, and part-time summer workshops.

The Studios

The Exceptional Minds professional studio animation and post-production services for partners and employs graduates of the academy. We provide work for top-tier companies like Disney, Sony, Netflix, NBCU, Sesame Workshop and more.

Our Position on AI and New Tech

Exceptional Minds embraces new technology, from AI to virtual production, as a spark for curiosity, collaboration, and creative growth. Through hands-on, human-centered practice and thoughtful guidance with emerging tools, we empower artists on the autism spectrum to shape the future of storytelling with confidence, care, and imagination.