Trailblazer, Innovator, and Champion for Neurodiversity
Chris Simpson: Trailblazer, Innovator,
and Champion for Neurodiversity
Trailblazer, Innovator, and Champion for Neurodiversity
Phone: (206) 550-5464
Email: chris.simpson@trailblazerinstitute.com
Phone: (206) 550-5464
Email: chris.simpson@trailblazerinstitute.com
Phone: (206) 550-5464
Email: chris.simpson@trailblazerinstitute.com
I’ve spent my life building, leading, and pushing limits—from competing as a five-sport athlete to coaching championship swim teams and running a successful transportation company. Through it all, I’ve been driven by discipline, resilience, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential.
That commitment ultimately led me to my true calling: working with neurodiverse individuals.
Years ago, I launched a special needs swim program—before “neurodiversity” was widely recognized. What started in the pool quickly became a passion and a purpose. I went on to spend years teaching autistic children and supporting high-risk neurodiverse students, helping them build life skills, confidence, and independence.
Today, I’m channeling everything I’ve learned into my most important work yet: building a school in Snoqualmie designed specifically for neurodiverse young adults.
This school is more than a place to learn—it’s a hub for real-world growth and opportunity. Students will gain hands-on experience in areas like agriculture, aquatics, culinary arts, herbal arts, theater, and music. The goal is simple but powerful: help each student discover their strengths, develop independence, and prepare for meaningful careers in hospitality, the arts, and beyond.
At its core, the school is about empowerment. It’s about creating an environment where neurodiverse young adults are not just supported—but truly seen, valued, and set up to thrive. Just as importantly, it’s about building team-driven individuals who understand the power of community and collaboration.
My journey hasn’t been without challenges. From rebuilding cars as a teenager to leading teams in business and athletics, to overcoming major health obstacles including two open-heart surgeries, I’ve learned how to adapt, persevere, and lead through adversity. Those experiences shape how I show up today—as a mentor, a builder, and an advocate.
I’m a hands-on, “why not?” kind of person who believes in inclusion, innovation, and creating pathways where none existed before. This school represents everything I stand for—a future where every individual, regardless of challenges, has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed.
And this is just the beginning.
I’ve spent my life building, leading, and pushing limits—from competing as a five-sport athlete to coaching championship swim teams and running a successful transportation company. Through it all, I’ve been driven by discipline, resilience, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential.
That commitment ultimately led me to my true calling: working with neurodiverse individuals.
Years ago, I launched a special needs swim program—before “neurodiversity” was widely recognized. What started in the pool quickly became a passion and a purpose. I went on to spend years teaching autistic children and supporting high-risk neurodiverse students, helping them build life skills, confidence, and independence.
Today, I’m channeling everything I’ve learned into my most important work yet: building a school in Snoqualmie designed specifically for neurodiverse young adults.
This school is more than a place to learn—it’s a hub for real-world growth and opportunity. Students will gain hands-on experience in areas like agriculture, aquatics, culinary arts, herbal arts, theater, and music. The goal is simple but powerful: help each student discover their strengths, develop independence, and prepare for meaningful careers in hospitality, the arts, and beyond.
At its core, the school is about empowerment. It’s about creating an environment where neurodiverse young adults are not just supported—but truly seen, valued, and set up to thrive. Just as importantly, it’s about building team-driven individuals who understand the power of community and collaboration.
My journey hasn’t been without challenges. From rebuilding cars as a teenager to leading teams in business and athletics, to overcoming major health obstacles including two open-heart surgeries, I’ve learned how to adapt, persevere, and lead through adversity. Those experiences shape how I show up today—as a mentor, a builder, and an advocate.
I’m a hands-on, “why not?” kind of person who believes in inclusion, innovation, and creating pathways where none existed before. This school represents everything I stand for—a future where every individual, regardless of challenges, has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed.
And this is just the beginning.