The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush. Passage of the ADA signaled the United States commitment to achieving equality for all if it’s citizens by providing protections for people with disability. Today, there is a renewed commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion among HR professionals and by employers at large. Often, we lack the knowledge of the types of accommodations available that can be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities. In today’s tight labor market, employers must capitalize on any opportunity to hire a great candidate. For the September WBHRS program, we are honored to welcome experts from North Central Sight Services, Inc. to explain and demonstrate some Assistive Technology that can be used to provide accommodations that promote inclusion.
Assistive Technology can be defined as the products and tools that enhance the daily lives of people with disabilities. Assistive Technology helps individuals perform workplace duties that they might not otherwise be able to do. This could be with the use of things like high contrast keyboards, screen reading and magnification software, improved lighting, ergonomic adjustments, or smart tools. This program presentation was developed to provide knowledge and resources for employers and the business community to enhance their efforts for DEI and ADA accommodations.
Presenters:
Brandon DeArment is a technology specialist with 28 years of IT experience. He has achieved a certificate in Assistive Technology Applications from California State University, Northridge. Brandon has also earned a certificate of completion for the Web Accessibility Curriculum from Deque University. He performs assistive technology evaluations, demonstrates, and recommends technology, and helps individuals obtain devices they need .
Steven Floyd is a technology assistant and a visually impaired super user of technology. Steven is working towards his A+ certification and will be training in website accessibility later this year. Steven is the go-to person for the majority of employees at North Central Sight Services when it comes to technology.
Jay Harner is the supervisor of Short-Term Services & Supports at the Center for Independent Living of North Central Pennsylvania. In his role, he oversees programs that include Advocacy, Assistive Technology, Information and Referral, Peer Mentoring, and Independent Living Skills. Additionally, he is the Employment Network Coordinator and assists individuals with the Ticket to Work Program through the Social Security Administration and a two-time graduate of Penn College, most recently in May 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Finance.
Demo & Info:
Brandon DeArment and Steven Floyd will be demonstrating a high contrast keyboard, a talking tape measure, JAWS and ZoomText software, a handheld magnifier, a portable CCTV, and an iPad or iPhone with Voice Over technology.
Jay Harner is a person with a disability. He became a quadriplegic at the age of 18 and has been paralyzed for the past 24 years. Through his own experiences, his work and advocacy history, he will provide a comprehensive overview of the Ticket to Work program and employing individuals with disabilities.
Breakfast will be served at 8:00 AM, the program will begin at 8:30 AM. Please RSVP by 9/17/2021. This program is approved to provide 1.5 SHRM PDCs.
