On Monday, we sat down with Andrea Van Hook of RESNA, to talk about all things RESNA, Abilities International Accessibility Conference, and the direction of the industry.
Tell us about your experience with RESNA?
I’ve served as RESNA’s Executive Director since 2020. Previously, I was RESNA’s Membership, Marketing and Communications Manager from 2011 – 2016. I love the organization and the people.
What are you going to be bringing to stage at the Abilities International Accessibility Conference?
Part of the responsibility of being an AT professional is to provide services in an ethical and transparent manner. That can be very difficult to do in our fractured healthcare system. I am bringing RESNA’s Ethics course to the conference. In this session, we will tackle real world ethical dilemmas and discuss how RESNA’s Code of Conduct and Standards of Practice can help guide AT professionals to “do the right thing.”
What are the trends/topics you think are most important for the industry to focus on now?
With AI, technology is changing so rapidly. I think it’s very important for the industry to focus on the pace of technology change and how it’s potentially going to impact new technologies for people with disabilities.
What are you looking forward to at the conference?
I’m looking forward to seeing good friends and making new ones. AT professionals are the best. They have the biggest hearts.
Who should attend the conference and why?
Anyone who is an assistive technology professional or a student interested in assistive technology will find something interesting at the conference. You can mingle with leaders in the field and explore new areas. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re involved in seating and mobility, AAC, adaptive sports, video gaming, smart tech, etc. Every session offers IACET CEUs and is approved for PT and OT licensure renewal, plus there’s complimentary lunch and snacks! Honestly, there’s no downside.