Gail Hawkins is the founder of Hawkins Institute. She is an experienced and innovative vocational consultant and practitioner specializing for the past 15 years in the field of Asperger Syndrome, autism and PDD.

Formerly the Director of the Kerry’s Place Autism Services - Transitional Employment Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Gail launched Hawkins Institute in 1995 to provide an avenue to employment to people with ASD.

Gail has developed a comprehensive model of teaching called "Foundation Building™", which addresses all aspects of an individual, focusing on expanding strengths. Gail has been a guest speaker at many events, including the Geneva Centre's 1998 International Symposium for Autism and the 2002 ASC-US National Conference in Orlando Fld. Hawkins Institute has been featured in Abilities Magazine, the Toronto Star, CBC’s Health Matters and Moving On, and both the City TV and CBC Evening News.