Career Connections: Assistive Technology

1. Assistive Technology Specialist: Designs, customizes, and supports technology that helps individuals with disabilities live, learn, and communicate more independently. Skills used: User-centered design, electronics, troubleshooting, empathy-driven problem solving.

2. Occupational Therapist (with Tech Focus): Helps people regain or improve their ability to perform daily tasks, often by using or recommending adaptive tools and technologies. Skills used: Understanding of physical and cognitive needs, adaptive device use, communication with clients.

3. Human-Centered Product Designer: Creates tech tools and products with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, often working closely with end users to prototype and refine solutions. Skills used: Design thinking, user testing, 3D modeling, low- and high-fidelity prototyping.

4. Rehabilitation Engineer: Builds or modifies technology solutions tailored to individuals with mobility, communication, or access challenges—often in healthcare or education settings. Skills used: Electronics, mechanical systems, Arduino/Makey Makey integration, collaboration with clinical teams.