Special interests

I've retired two years ago at age 75 after a varied job history in six differing industries as an electro-mechanical fitter/repairman/installer (automotive-telephone-air compressor- hydraulics- robotics industries, followed by self employment the last 20+ years. Ref. profile). Positions I have held were solitary in nature relying on my skills set. Although I was recently diagnosed as autistic rather late in life, I nevertheless knew from an early age I was atypical, with not being a very good mixer socially. This realization since childhood inspired me to invest in myself with varied skill sets allowing participation in these industries. (I also hold a City & Guilds in brick laying although never having laid a commercial brick)

I spend most of my time in my shed either repairing things, modifying things, or making things. I've recently applied to volunteer my time at a local steam engine museum although I never had this sort of experience working with steam I think having worked in the past with high pressure hydraulics may be a step in the right direction. 

My biggest concern is whether or not to confess my autism, and simply try to get on with whatever task I am presented with as an individual, or as a team player through masking myself. I am awaiting a response to my submitted application---its early days yet. I am torn between the possibility of being rejected owing to my age and my origins, and my struggle with sociable interactions of NT's while having experienced many past rejections.

Asperger Mike

I've retired two years ago at age 75 after a varied job history in six differing industries as an electro-mechanical fitter/repairman/installer (automotive-telephone-air compressor- hydraulics- robotics industries, followed by self employment the last 20+ years. Ref. profile). Positions I have held were solitary in nature relying on my skills set. Although I was recently diagnosed as autistic rather late in life, I nevertheless knew from an early age I was atypical, with not being a very good mixer socially. This realization since childhood inspired me to invest in myself with varied skill sets allowing participation in these industries. (I also hold a City & Guilds in brick laying although never having laid a commercial brick)

I spend most of my time in my shed either repairing things, modifying things, or making things. I've recently applied to volunteer my time at a local steam engine museum although I never had this sort of experience working with steam I think having worked in the past with high pressure hydraulics may be a step in the right direction. 

My biggest concern is whether or not to confess my autism, and simply try to get on with whatever task I am presented with as an individual, or as a team player through masking myself. I am awaiting a response to my submitted application---its early days yet. I am torn between the possibility of being rejected owing to my age and my origins, and my struggle with sociable interactions of NT's while having experienced many past rejections.

Asperger Mike

Thats a tricky question. I am in a similar situation with my new job, on the one hand declaring it could make people understand you better and give you more support but on the other hand it can lead to more hassle and paperwork etc. I dont really know the answer Im afraid.

A steam train museum would be very interesting. I have visited many of those, I think the Didcot Railway Centre was my favourite

Its interesting that you realised early on in life that you were somewhat atypical. I think many of us take a long time to get to that realisation, I know I did