We sit down with the Abilities Portfolio Managing Director, Katy Roberts to discuss the newly launched Abilities International Accessibility Conference – a groundbreaking event designed to reshape how complex rehab technology professionals come together to learn, connect and grow. With three tracks of content over 2 days; improving patient outcomes, business growth strategies and adapted living, there are 10 hours of CEU’s and a lot to cover! The conference is already gaining attention so we asked the questions we know you're curious about.
1. Let’s start with the basics – what is the Abilities International Accessibility Conference?
Katy: The Abilities International Accessibility Conference is an industry event for clinicians, ATPs, technicians, dealers and resellers. It is a 2-day event focused on delivering relevant and timely educational content with the chance to earn over 10 hours of CEUs! The 2 days will offer an opportunity for industry professionals to come together to learn about the emerging trends and changes in policy, new products and technology, business growth strategies and hands-on training too. It’s designed to bring together professionals, innovators, advocates, and policymakers to share ideas, best practices, and solutions for the complex rehab technology industry. We will hold the conference in 3 locations and collocate with the renowned consumer event Abilities Expo Los Angeles, Abilities Expo New York Metro, Abilities Expo Chicago in 2026.
2. What inspired the launch of this conference?
Katy: There was a growing recognition that while many conversations about mobility and complex rehab technologies are happening, they’re often siloed. We want to bring together the industry experts and associations to curate one conversation in 3 prominent locations in the States. We are working in partnership with RESNA, ISS, CTF, US Rehab, iNRRTS, and Abilities Expo to deliver a co-created content program. We also have the unique benefit that the consumer expo will take place Friday through Sunday in the same venue and so the opportunity is there for professionals to cross over into the expo to connect with consumers and manufacturers too.
3. Who is the conference for?
Katy: Everyone with a stake in the mobility industry! That includes Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Assistive Technology Professionals, Technicians, Dealers, Resellers and Providers. There are 3 tracks of content, networking opportunities and hands-on workshops for all attendees. There are also sponsorship packages for manufacturers and speaking opportunities experts in their field.
4. Can you tell us about some of the themes or topics being covered?
Katy: Absolutely. Topics that are being explored range from wheelchair adjustments and components, posture management, AI in assistive technology, home modifications, policy & tech for aging, power wheelchair skills and programming and much more. We’re also exploring technician training delivered by US Rehab in New York Metro.
5. Are there any keynote speakers or partners you can tell us about?
Katy: We’re excited to welcome speakers from the International Seating Symposium including Rachel Hibbs, Wayne Grau from National Coalition of Assistive & Rehab Technology, Tyler Mahncke from US Rehab plus leading accessibility manufacturers. The full list and agenda will be revealed during the Summer.
6. Will it be a virtual, in-person, or hybrid event?
Katy: All of our events are in person events. We’re collocating the industry conference (Thursday & Friday) with Abilities Expo (Friday – Sunday) and have a physical venue in each location Los Angeles, New York Metro and Chicago. This approach helps us to facilitate face to face learning, peer networking and hands-on workshops.
7. Where and when is it happening?
Katy: The inaugural conference takes place in Los Angeles, March 26 – 28, a day before the Abilities Expo opens to the general public March 27-29, 2026. Tickets will go on sale for all 3 of our locations in the Fall 2025. With the tickets, industry professionals will get a networking lunch, and access to the Abilities Expo. We will provide real-time with captioning, sign language interpretation, and wheelchair access too.
8. Finally – what’s the one thing you hope people take away from this conference?
Katy: Everyone has their own challenges in their day-to-day workplace and role but there is a outcome that we all aim for in this industry and that is to improve independence for the disability community. With the 3 streams of content delivered by thought leaders and experts, we hope people leave feeling informed and motivated to make meaningful changes in their own spheres of influence. Accessibility is about designing a world that works better for everyone.
You can learn more about the Abilities International Accessibility Conference at www.abilitiesconference.com or follow us on social media @abilities_intl_conference
Stay tuned for updates on the program, speakers, and how to get involved.