Margaret Golding Neelsen – Chairperson

Born in Dublin Ireland moved to Charlotte in 1993. Margaret has worked in the manufacturing industry for over 20 years. Margaret has a personal connection to autism. In 2002, her son Ryan was diagnosed with autism. To ensure Ryan’s progress she took a career break which allowed her to focus on preparing him for elementary school. During that time she became very involved in childhood autism and suggested programs. Prior to Ryan’s diagnosis Margaret worked for Solectron Technologies for over 10 years. During her tenure at Solectron, Margaret had the privilege of meeting a U.S. President when her team won the Malcom Baldrige award. In 2008, Margaret returned to the workforce and is currently part of the leadership team at Cardinal Health. In 2010, she received the Top Gun award for process improvements that led to significant cost savings and efficiencies for Cardinal Health. Margaret is Green Belt and Kaizen leader certified. Margaret continues to be a strong advocate for children and young people with autism. Margaret and her husband Erik are the driving force behind AutismAfter18. Their vision for Ryan and other young adults with autism led to the foundation of the Autism After 18.