In this session, Emily shares her story of losing her vision after numerous surgeries to remove a rare brain tumor at 14 and the adaptation process of relearning to read, travel, and use technology. Emily will talk about the importance of technology and how it assists with daily tasks at home as well as the work place. Emily’s journey is a testament to hope and resilience. She aims to share her story to encourage educators and teachers to not be afraid to think outside the box to help students who learn differently, as well as inspire those facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, proving that strength and determination can overcome even the darkest of circumstances.

Discover how innovative providers are revolutionizing independent living through the integration of supportive housing and advanced assistive technology. This groundbreaking combination is creating unprecedented opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and other disabilities who previously required 24-hour care environments. For the first time in history, these individuals can now achieve the autonomy and independence they deserve, transforming what was once merely a dream into an achievable reality.

Drawing from lessons learned across multiple states, as well as on-the-ground experiences from a seasoned AT professional in Connecticut, this session will explore how to overcome some of the common issues that limit technology’s effectiveness in supporting individuals.

In the first part of the session, Jamie Martin, Assistive Technology Manager at Lumibility, will share her approach to building an optimal assistive technology (AT) process, including methods for assessing individuals’ needs, aligning stakeholders, ensuring successful deployment, and addressing the critical issue of technology abandonment.

During the second half, Paul Carpenter, CEO of BoundaryCare, will share some challenges faced by numerous provider organizations who wish to adopt a tech-first strategy and their most effective responses.

This session will benefit provider leadership, AT professionals, and DDS case managers who wish to learn how to drive successful AT deployment.

This hands-on workshop introduces participants to IRISBOND’s Hiru, the first multi-platform eye tracker, alongside the IRISBOND App Wheel, a curated guide to eyegaze-accessible apps across operating systems.The IRISBOND App Wheel is an essential resource for therapists, educators, and families seeking eye-gaze-compatible applications. The goal of the workshop is to provide a practical, interactive experience where participants learn to configure eye tracking technology for different types of apps, ranging from communication tools to leisure and educational activities.

Development and awareness of assistive technology tools has increased, but 7 out 10 people abandon using their AT. A research review conducted by the NIHR found many barriers and divided them up into 6 theme groups: design & function, information & awareness, service provision, psychological barriers, support network, and societal barriers. 3D printing assistive technology and including users in the discussion and development gives the opportunity to customize tools and devices to meet their styles and preferences. Considering universal design principles in the development allows tools to be used by a variety of demographics, not just someone with a disability. This helps to increase follow through and continued use of the item.

Providers are facing staffing shortages and high turnover while the number of people requiring support is increasing. The Pew Research center reports up to 1 in 4 Adults face some type of disability in America today. The answer isn’t to work faster and harder, it’s to work smarter. Armed with high-tech, high-touch products, we can! We’ll explore the spectrum of technology options from medication management to fall detection to smart touchscreens and smart stoves. We’ll talk about Smart Tech-enabled Living, a new model of value-based care that is saving organizations like yours real dollars, improving independence and reducing onsite caregiving hours without sacrificing safety. What should you expect? How do you pay for it and when do you start seeing the return on investment? This 75 minute course will detail the transition to smart living and how you can get started.

In this session, Miles will discuss his journey as an AAC user for more than 20 years, from infancy to adulthood. From his parents being told all the things he wouldn’t be able to do to his current role speaking to colleges all over the country, Miles will share experiences as an AAC User.

Both Android and iOS offer extensive accessibility features designed to support users with various disabilities, including vision, hearing, mobility, and cognitive impairments. iOS, known for its consistency and ease of use, includes VoiceOver (a robust screen reader), Magnifier, Zoom, Spoken Content, and Sound Recognition for those with vision or hearing impairments. It also provides AssistiveTouch, Switch Control, and Back Tap for users with motor disabilities, along with Live Captions, Guided Access, and Voice Control for cognitive and communication support. Android, offering more customization, features TalkBack (a screen reader similar to VoiceOver), Magnification, Live Transcribe, Sound Amplifier, and Lookout for visual and hearing accessibility. It also includes Switch Access, Voice Access, and customizable gestures for mobility support. Both platforms support braille displays, real-time captions, and AI-driven accessibility improvements, though iOS is often praised for its seamless integration, while Android provides more flexibility across a wider range of devices.

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) offers individuals with complex communication needs a voice, fostering connection, independence, and self-advocacy. However, successful AAC implementation requires more than a single discipline approach. It is well documented that AAC users need their whole school-based team to collaborate and provide a united approach to provide effective supports for the student to learn and use AAC effectively. School based related service providers are not always equipped with the tools and resources to effectively support students who use AAC or select the most appropriate systems. Furthermore, students with complex learning, behavior, and/or communication needs require even more specialized and careful consideration of AAC strategies and tools; collaboration across all team members is even more pertinent. This presentation will emphasize the critical importance of collaboration and co-evaluation between occupational therapists (OTs) and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to holistically address the sensory-motor, cognitive, and communicative needs of AAC users. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experience exploring a range of AAC tools, access methods, and devices. Participants will also have opportunities to investigate how OTs and SLPs can work together to identify and overcome barriers to effective AAC use, including physical access, positioning, sensory regulation, and cognitive-linguistic considerations. This presentation is ideal for professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of AAC, strengthen interdisciplinary relationships, and improve outcomes for individuals with complex communication needs.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds transformative potential to bridge digital divides, foster accessibility and enhance efficiency. This session demystifies AI’s role in creating a more inclusive digital landscape while addressing its inherent challenges. Participants will learn practical applications of AI, including crafting effective prompts and identifying safe, reliable strategies for assistive technologies. We will explore the dualities of AI—the advantages of automation and inclusivity, alongside risks such as misinformation, biases, and privacy concerns. By the end of this session, attendees will navigate AI’s benefits and pitfalls, equipped to empower their communities.

Join us to discover how AI can amplify opportunities and foster a more equitable digital ecosystem for all.

This session covers three main learning objectives: we will identify the different types of Assistive Technology (AT) used in the workplace, from low-tech to high-tech solutions, and understand their role in supporting employees with diverse needs.

Secondly, we evaluate workplace accessibility needs by understanding the assessment process and how to match the right AT to an individual’s job functions, work environment, and abilities.

And lastly, we explore emerging Assistive Technology trends, including AI, adaptive wearables, and virtual reality, and understand how these innovations create more accessible and inclusive workplaces.

Join us for an interactive Tech Talk Workshop: Navigating Student Success with Chromebook and iPad Solutions! In this hands-on session, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and actively engage with the technology that can make learning both fun and accessible. We’ll dive into the accessibility features of Chromebooks and iPads, comparing how each device can support students with varying needs. From enhancing engagement to fostering an inclusive learning environment, we’ll provide practical tips and tricks for maximizing these devices. Whether you’re team Chromebook or team iPad, you’ll leave with new ideas and hands-on experience to help empower every student. Get ready for a session filled with actionable strategies and some tech magic!