Thomas W. Iland

A few months after I left high school, I had a major revelation. Up to that point, I had been passive, waiting for life to come to me. One day, I realized that I had to come to life and create the life I wanted. I came up with a mantra that helped me drive my life forward: Know Yourself. Love Yourself. Be Yourself.

Many individuals like me who have autism (or another learning difference) don’t truly understand themselves or know how their disability affects them. Without understanding, they struggle to love and accept themselves. This roadblock can get in the way of just about everything else.

In Come to Life! I speak directly to my peers and guide them through the process of discovering themselves. I explain mantra and how it can help other young people (those with autism, those who have another disability or people with no disability at all).

My co-author is my mother, who has guided me through the peaks and valleys of my life. Together we offer a personable step-by-step guide to the process of self-discovery, including insights, activities and resources. We hope you agree that Come to Life! is a great prequel to transition planning, ideal for anyone who wants to help young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other special needs transition more successfully to life and realize their true potential.

I am very honored that Come to Life! has been selected to receive The Mom’s Choice Gold Award, globally recognized as a benchmark of excellence in family-friendly media, products and services! I was also very happy when Come to Life! became an Amazon #1 Best Seller in our category!

I would love to hear from you! You can contact me through my website at www.ThomasIland.com

Here’s a bit more about my background

I was diagnosed with autism at age 13, and have worked hard to achieve many of my goals: full-time employment, driving, living in my own apartment and having a girlfriend.

I’m a graduate of California State University Northridge and a Certified Public Accountant.

As a young man with autism, I have extensive, first-hand experience in looking for and obtaining employment, creating and maintaining relationships, practicing and educating about safety with law enforcement, and advice about the benefits of making someone’s autism known to them as opposed to being kept a secret. I enjoy public speaking and offer unique insights with heart and humor in my engaging presentations.

My work experience includes Calavo Growers, Tetra Tech, Roger CPA Review, Universal Music Group, Princess Cruises, Harbor Freight Tools, Deloitte, The Walt Disney Company, Green & Green CPAs, Blockbuster Video, Regal Entertainment Group, and Hollywood Video.

I serve on the Board of Directors for of not-for-profit organizations including Santa Clarita Valley Safe Rides, Junior Chamber International Santa Clarita, and The Art of Autism. I’m also a division director for District 52 of Toastmasters International and am very proud to be a Distinguished Toastmaster!

Contact me to arrange a consultation or presentation for your organization or group, especially about Come to Life!