
Education & outreach
Project Spectrum
Connecting people on the autism spectrum with software to develop 3D designs and open the door into creativity innovation and job skills.
Our story
Project Spectrum was started after discovering that 3D modeling can be a powerful tool for individuals on the autism spectrum.
A surprising discovery
Putting ideas into action
Opening new possibilities

Opening new possibilities
For some children on the spectrum, including those who are nonverbal, SketchUp offers as a way to share their thoughts through images. Other participants learn life skills that help them to achieve educational and career goals they might not have otherwise considered, all the while building a supportive community.

A surprising discovery
People on the autism spectrum tend to be unusually strong visual and spatial thinkers, making 3D design a great fit. The SketchUp team increasingly started to hear how SketchUp was changing the lives of people on the autism spectrum. Once that connection was made, Project Spectrum was formed.

Putting ideas into action
Project Spectrum offers SketchUp, along with free training, to students and adults with autism, enhancing their 3D modeling skills and self-expression. Since 2007, it has boosted students' self-confidence, educational success, and career readiness.

Opening new possibilities
For some children on the spectrum, including those who are nonverbal, SketchUp offers as a way to share their thoughts through images. Other participants learn life skills that help them to achieve educational and career goals they might not have otherwise considered, all the while building a supportive community.

A surprising discovery
People on the autism spectrum tend to be unusually strong visual and spatial thinkers, making 3D design a great fit. The SketchUp team increasingly started to hear how SketchUp was changing the lives of people on the autism spectrum. Once that connection was made, Project Spectrum was formed.

Putting ideas into action
Project Spectrum offers SketchUp, along with free training, to students and adults with autism, enhancing their 3D modeling skills and self-expression. Since 2007, it has boosted students' self-confidence, educational success, and career readiness.

Opening new possibilities
For some children on the spectrum, including those who are nonverbal, SketchUp offers as a way to share their thoughts through images. Other participants learn life skills that help them to achieve educational and career goals they might not have otherwise considered, all the while building a supportive community.
I can say without a doubt that working on Project Spectrum has been the most rewarding experience of my life.
— Casey Grothus
Manager of Project Spectrum, Trimble
Learn how Trimble makes a difference
Trimble offers many opportunities for today's students to access resources and knowledge to help them plan their careers and make an impact in the livelihood of the world.
From modeling tree houses to building intricate, energy-efficient homes, SketchUp is the most widely used 3D design program in the world.
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