Using Technology to Advance Accessibility at AtWork!
At AtWork!, we believe technology should create more opportunities, not more barriers. As technology continues to shape the workplace, we are exploring practical ways to help people with disabilities build skills, increase independence, and participate more fully in employment and community life.
Through the development of the AtWork! Technology and Innovation Center (TAIC), we are bringing together accessible technology, hands-on learning, staff training, and individualized support to help people use technology with greater confidence.
Making Workplace Technology More Accessible
For many people, workplace technology is an essential part of the job. Touchscreens, keyboards, scanners, digital checklists, communication tools, and other systems can help employees complete tasks more independently. However, these tools are not always designed with every user in mind.
TAIC will offer practical technology assessments that focus on real workplace tasks—not general computer knowledge. Assessments may explore how an individual uses tools such as:
- Touchscreens and keyboards
- Scanners and digital checklists
- Speech-to-text tools
- Visual prompts and step-by-step instructions
- Alternative ways to access buttons and other controls
- Tools that support motor access and communication
The goal is to identify a person’s strengths, support needs, and opportunities for skill development. These assessments can help Employment Consultants better understand what tools or strategies may support an individual’s success on the job.
Learning Through Job Simulators
TAIC will also use job simulators to give people opportunities to practice workplace tasks in a supportive environment. Initial simulator activities will focus on roles such as:
- Receptionist: Practicing greetings, answering common questions, and taking messages
- Customer Service: Practicing routine interactions and responding to unexpected questions
- Tech Support: Practicing basic troubleshooting and guided help-desk scenarios
These activities allow participants to build skills, practice responding to workplace situations, and explore areas where additional support may be helpful. Evaluations will consider factors such as communication, accuracy, pacing, problem-solving, persistence, and following multistep instructions.
Importantly, simulator and assessment reports will support Employment Consultant decision-making. They will not make employment decisions on their own. Each person’s goals, preferences, support needs, and individual circumstances will remain central to the employment planning process.
Exploring Low-Cost Accessibility Solutions
Not every accessibility solution needs to be expensive or complicated. TAIC plans to create an accessibility device library where staff and clients can learn about tools and try possible solutions.
The initial collection will include 3D-printed accessibility samples such as:
- Grips
- Holders
- Guides
- Button aids
- Other low-cost adaptations
These tools can help people explore different ways to interact with workplace equipment and everyday technology. The library will grow over time based on the actual needs and experiences of people AtWork! supports.
Equipping Staff With Practical Technology Skills
Advancing accessibility also means ensuring that AtWork! staff have the knowledge and tools they need to support individuals effectively.
TAIC will provide practical training on topics such as:
- Responsible use of artificial intelligence
- Microsoft 365 tools
- Data practices and cybersecurity
- Accessibility features
- New technology introduced through the Center
Training may take the form of a short demonstration, quick reference guide, or small-group session. The goal is to provide information staff can use right away in their work with clients, employers, and colleagues.
Technology Guided by People
AtWork!’s approach to technology is grounded in the needs and experiences of the people who use it. During the first year, TAIC will focus on building useful tools, trying them in real situations, and improving them based on feedback from clients and staff.
This includes testing technology assessments and simulators with an initial group of clients, gathering feedback from Employment Consultants, and refining tools before expanding their use. Over time, trained Employment Consultants may be able to administer appropriate assessments and simulators independently, while TAIC continues to maintain resources, provide training, and support more complex situations.
Technology will not replace the relationships, judgment, or individualized support that make AtWork!’s services effective. Instead, it will serve as another resource to help people identify their strengths, practice skills, access accommodations, and pursue their employment goals.
Building a More Inclusive Future
Accessibility is not simply about having access to a device or software program. It is about having meaningful opportunities to participate, contribute, learn, and succeed.
Through the AtWork! Technology and Innovation Center, we are working toward a future where technology is more practical, flexible, and accessible for people with disabilities, and where staff have the resources to help make that future possible.
By combining innovation with individualized support, feedback, and a commitment to inclusion, AtWork! is using technology to help more people build confidence, develop skills, and thrive in the workplace and in their communities.
The Future is Accessible
As technology evolves, so do the opportunities for people with disabilities to showcase their skills, creativity, and leadership. At AtWork!, we’re committed to staying at the forefront, exploring new innovations, testing new tools, and advocating for workplaces where accessibility is just a normal part of doing business.
When human potential meets innovative technology, the results are extraordinary: a stronger, more inclusive workforce that benefits everyone.
Empower our Mission.
Inspired by what you read or what you think the future holds? Help us empower more people with I/DD through technology.
