Coast Tech Labs is a specialized technology capacity-building service on the Sunshine Coast, designed exclusively for neurodivergent (ASD/ADHD) youth and young adults (ages 12-30). Founded by Joel Biddle, an experienced Software Engineer, we bridge the gap between empathetic support and high-end digital creation.
We replace outdated “block coding” paradigms with professional, industry-standard mentoring in software engineering, creative technologies, local LLM training, cybersecurity & OpSec, and systems design. Through our immersive holiday workshops, and term-time squads, participants use cutting-edge tools (LiDAR, Unreal Engine, Blender) to collaboratively build and mod custom experiences, such as Minecraft-themed augmented reality environments.
Our core focus is mapping executive functioning directly to real-world engineering practices. By working in small, highly supported squads (1:4 ratio) facilitated by complex-needs support workers, participants naturally practice task initiation, sustaining focus during complex builds, meeting project deadlines, and collaborative teamwork. We structure our sessions into Core Engineering Sprints with ample decompression times, safely managing cognitive load while empowering young creators to turn their natural hyper-focus into elite, professional digital skills.
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Jack Gojic
1 day agowe first met joel through his social media page explaining his vision for asd kids with coat tech labs. Joel then contacted us and we had a video meeting with him were he explained in detail what it was about, he also took the time to meet out 13 year old which was great as he got to meet joel as well. we signed up our son and haven't looked back since. the program really allows these kids to explore, learn and interact with other asd kids in a safe and environment were they are free to be themselves and learn skills and participate in a group and make friends as well. thank you joel for bringing your knowledge and understanding of these kids together to put a program that is truly worthy. Great job and look forward to many more with your team. jack and Marina.👍👍
Freya Phoenix
2 months agoMy son has been doing the term 2 weekly coast tech labs with Joel and absolutely loving it. He is thriving and learning so much about coding and interacting with others teens his age. Joel has done a great job of organising these weekly labs. Thank you so much! highly recommend.
Kym Richter
5 months agoCoast Tech Labs is a fantastic opportunity for teens who are interested in coding and technology. Joel & his team have created a welcoming environment that supports all kids to be able to develop real skills while having fun and connecting with others who share the same interests. The workshops and weekly sessions are engaging and practical. Joel’s passion for tech really comes through in the way he works with the students. It’s great to see a program that encourages curiosity, creativity and confidence in young people exploring technology in a safe environment. Highly Recommended! <3