TechSummit 2022
THANKS FOR A GREAT TECHSUMMIT!
We look forward to seeing you again at TechSummit 2023.
CLICK HERE to access Session Slides.
August 12, 2022
8:30AM-4:00PM (Vendor hall opens at 7:30AM)
Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel
409 Altair Pkwy, Westerville, OH 43082
Lunch Sponsor
Morning Break Sponsors
Creative Housing | Creative Renovations
To view content from previous TechSummit conferences, visit the “Archive” tab above
From smart home and assistive technologies to independent transportation options, this event offers attendees a chance to learn about different kinds of current and emerging technology options to support people with developmental disabilities who want more independence in their lives.
Hear from families | Explore Technology Solutions
Engage with Experts | Embrace the future
For more information, contact:
Coordinator, Technology Project
ATTENDEES
Individual/Family member: $50.00*
Professional: $75.00
VENDORS
Morning Break Sponsorship (2 available): $500.00
* A limited number of scholarships for individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members are available.* Contact Jordan.Wagner@osumc.edu to apply for scholarship
KEYNOTE PRESENTER
Founder & CEO
Cognitopia
KEYNOTE: Getting Serious About Self-Determination with Technology for Self-Management and Support
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
Kim Hauck
Director
Department of Developmental Disabilities
BREAKOUT PRESENTERS
Founder and CEO
Medforall
Ohioathome
Director
Assistive Technology of Ohio
Integrated Systems Engineering
The Ohio State University
Brian Hart
Chief Operating Officer
LADD
Behavioral Support Specialist
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center
Assistive Technology Specialist
Medina County Board of DD
Assistive Technology & Remote Support Specialist
Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Senior Behavior Support Specialist
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center
Program Developer
Arc Industries
Founder/CXO
NextGen AT
Data Management Coordinator
Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities
CEO
StationMD
Ohio Tech Ambassador Network:
Christopher Cooley
Jen Schlegel
Marci Straughter
Nathan Turner
Renee Wood
Robert Shuemak
IT Director
Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
Getting Serious About Self-Determination with Technology for Self-Management and Support
Tom Keating, PhD: Founder & CEO of Cognitopia
For over twenty five years, Tom Keating has been exploring the ways in which cognitively accessible software can augment the independence of individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and other cognitive disabilities while also enhancing the efforts of direct support professionals, teachers, parents, and others in support roles. The goal of self-determination has played a central role in guiding our development activities at Cognitopia, but we believe that although this is a fundamental construct, there has been a lack of available tools that actually enable people with cognitive disabilities to behave in ways that foster the sense of self-efficacy that we refer to as self-determination. The result of our efforts is the Cognitopia Platform for Self-Determination, whose purpose is to provide cognitively accessible self-management and executive functioning tools in areas such as goal management, IEP self-direction, person-centered planning, task accomplishment, social participation, remote support, and team collaboration. Keating’s talk will explore this approach to self-determination, how it can be operationalized through different levels of self-management, and how early engagement builds self-advocacy skills. We will share examples of how these applications are being used in schools, colleges, supported employment, and independent living.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Assistive Technology 101: Overview of Assistive Technology
Attendees of this session will benefit whether they are new to technology solutions or have advocated for the use of assistive technology for a long time. This sessions features live demonstrations of technology and examples for how assistive technology is used in real life situations.
Impact of Specialized Telemedicine on People with IDD
Telemedicine for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) requires numerous tailored to the population in order to have the biggest impact. This includes education, aftercare, and specifically trained providers. Data from StationMD’s program demonstrates quality and economic benefits for people it serves. In addition it results in significant benefits to direct care staff in residences, and family members in independent homes. Significant policy obstacles remain, but several states demonstrate pathways forward.
Technology and Barriers for individual’s with more significant needs:
Ali Rahimi | Brittany Kauscher, MA | Jane Coffey, LISW-S
Resulting from TechSummit feedback surveys, this session responds to the question of – can people with more significant needs benefit from technology solutions? This session details how to consider technology solutions for individuals with needs that have historically necessitated the physical presence of a support person. Join us as we consider ways that technology solutions might play a part in assisting someone with Behavioral Support needs, Medical support needs, and needs for those who have difficulty communicating their needs.
Embracing Technology First: Advocating For and Moving Forward with Technology First
Connie Jack | Heather Pohlman | Lynne Hibbard
Representatives from three different County Boards of Developmental Disabilities highlight ways that their county has approached Technology First. Be inspired in this session by considering creative ideas to promote technology as a support option for Ohioans with developmental disabilities.
Arc Industries and AT Ohio Collaboration: Assistive Technology in Adult Day Program
Josh Cook | William T. Darling, PhD
Embracing the Paradigm Shift:
Brian Hart | Ken Smith
Change is inevitable… as is the current staffing crisis and coming tsunami of new individuals requiring supports in the coming years. Like the giant force of nature for which tsunamis are named, there is no way to avoid what is here or what is coming. It is our responsibility to recognize, learn, prepare and respond. To remain where we are will lead to disaster. This session will explore how technology today and into the future should play a vital role in the solution. What technology business models are being used today? Should adopt these new business models? Are there other services (large or small) which are a drain on time and resources which could be automated or improved through the use of technology? What support actions do we take which reduce or discourage independence? These questions and more will be asked and audience participation will be encouraged, requested and expected for a successful session. Join us as we explore why you should embrace the coming paradigm shift in supports.
Practical and Affordable Technology for People with Disabilities: Consumer/Off-the-Shelf Technology Solutions That Respond to Common Needs
Christopher Cooley | Tanner Huff | Jen Schlegel | Robert Shuemak | Marci Straughter | Nathan Turner | Brad Whitmoyer | Renee Wood
Moderated by George Myers
Join the Tech Ambassadors as they share practical ways technology solutions, including many consumer/off-the-shelf technologies, can make life easier and, for many, open possibilities for independence. This session will feature a chance to see onstage demonstrations of technology being used by the Tech Ambassadors.
SCHEDULE
VENDORS
Lunch Sponsor
Morning Break Sponsors
Creative Housing | Creative Renovations
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Advanced Low Vision Technology
TechSummit Archive
For previous year’s session descriptions, presenter bios, and presentation slides, follow the links below.
Keynote:
Tom Keating
For over twenty five years, Keating has been exploring the ways in which cognitively accessible software can augment the independence of individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and other cognitive disabilities while also enhancing the efforts of parents, teachers, and others in support roles. The idea of self-determination has played a central role in guiding our development activities, but we believe that although this is a fundamental construct, there has been a dearth of available tools that actually enable people with cognitive disabilities to behave in ways that foster the sense of self-efficacy that we refer to as self-determination. The result of this effort is the Cognitopia Platform for Self-Determination, whose purpose is to provide cognitively accessible tools in areas such as goal management, IEP self-direction, person-centered planning, task accomplishment, social participation, remote support, and team collaboration.
Special Guest:
Director Kim Hauck
Kimberly Hauck was appointed as director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities in January of 2022 by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.
Hauck previously served four years as Chief Policy Officer at DODD and four years as the Assistant Deputy Director for the state’s Early Intervention system. She began her career as a direct support professional providing services for people with developmental disabilities. Hauck then joined the Hamilton County Board of Developmental Disabilities as a special education teacher and early intervention specialist. She also served in various other positions throughout her 22 years with the board including Director of Children’s Services and Director of Program Services.
Throughout her career, Hauck has been an advocate for Ohioans with developmental disabilities and their families. She received a Bachelor of Science in Special Education at the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Educational Administration from Xavier University.
Breakout Presenters:
Ali Rahimi
Ali Rahimi is a graduate of OSU’s Computer Engineering program and has been working in the field of physical and developmental disability for over a decade. Today, Ali is the founder and chief technology officer of a local startup, Medforall. Since 2016, he has been using assistive technology to promote increased independence and safety for individuals with disabilities. His work offers him the opportunity to learn new things every day, and Ali is eager to share the value of his experiences with others.
William T. Darling
William T. Darling, Ph.D., is the director of Assistive Technology of Ohio, a statewide disability technology program that is part of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University. Dr. Darling received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Miami University, a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Southern Illinois University and his doctorate in rehabilitation education from The Ohio State University. He has worked in the assistive technology field for 20 years. He is a former chairman of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and past-president of the Ohio chapter of the International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals. For eight years he coordinated return-to-work programs for injured workers in the workers’ compensation system, and works as a consultant to employers and managed care organizations on workers’ compensation issues. He began his career as a social worker for a mental health agency in Columbus, and is a track and field and cross country coach at Thomas Worthington High School. Bill and his wife Jill are the parents of six children and live in Worthington.
Brittany Kauscher
Brittany Kauscher, MA has worked with Nisonger Behavior Support Services for 13 years. The Behavior Support Services unit of the Nisonger Center develops, implements, and monitors behavior support strategies for individuals with complex needs. The unit works with individuals, families, day programs, residential programs and the service coordinators of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Connie Jack
Connie Jack received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University and her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from The University of Akron. She received her ATP certification in 2021. She has worked in a variety of positions in the fields of developmental disabilities and public health throughout her professional career. Ms. Jack’s professional focus is on Supportive Technology and enhancing communication skills for individuals with disabilities. In her current role as an Assistive Technology Specialist at the MCBDD, she strives to develop real world solutions using simple and advanced technologies to help individuals further their goals toward social, educational and employment opportunities.
Heather Pohlman
Heather Pohlman earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Bowling Green State University. Following Graduation she began her career as a Service Coordinator for the Ohio Early Intervention/Help Me Grow Program in Lucas County. In 2019, she made the switch from the Children’s department to the Adult department as a Service and Support Specialist. As technology began to grow throughout the state, Heather sought to become LCBDD’s Remote Support & Assistive Technology Specialist. Where she now focuses on helping individuals and their teams explore different assistive technology options as well as remote supports. Heather is very passionate about assisting clients served reach their full potential and live life as independently as possible. In her free time, Heather coaches Basketball, Volleyball and Softball for Lucas County Special Olympics.
Jane Coffey
Jane Coffey, LISW-S has worked with Nisonger Behavior Support Services for 10 years. The Behavior Support Services unit of the Nisonger Center develops, implements, and monitors behavior support strategies for individuals with complex needs. The unit works with individuals, families, day programs, residential programs and the service coordinators of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Jane Coffey
Jane Coffey, LISW-S has worked with Nisonger Behavior Support Services for 10 years. The Behavior Support Services unit of the Nisonger Center develops, implements, and monitors behavior support strategies for individuals with complex needs. The unit works with individuals, families, day programs, residential programs and the service coordinators of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Ken Smith II
From mechanical engineer to sales engineer to insurance agency owner, working in the field of developmental disabilities & assistive technology was the furthest thing from my mind over 10 years ago.
And yet there is no place I would rather be.
From the emergence of Remote Supports in the state of Ohio, as a technology engineer providing assessment, training and speaking engagements to service coordinators, providers, clients and families. Providing feedback to the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Governor’s office at the request of the State Director, I have been extremely active in shaping the Technology First initiative.
Today I am the Founder of AbilityTech, designing smart-home solutions and assistive technology solutions to individuals, residential and ICF providers, county boards and state departments of developmental disabilities.
Ohio DODD Tech First Consultant and co-founder of NextGenAT, a software platform which hands remote supports over to the local service provider.
Lynne Hibbard
Lynne Hibbard is the Data Management Coordinator with the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities and is co-leading the Board’s efforts to embrace the Technology First initiative by creating a new Thriving Through Technology Team.
Lynne has 36 years of professional experience in the field. She has served at every level within the provider community from direct support professional through quality assurance director. She successfully managed supports in home- and community-based waiver, ICF/IDD, adult day programs, community employment, and licensed waiver settings throughout Southwest Ohio.
Lynne brought her experience as a provider to the Board in 2016 where her passion led her to serve as an ambassador for the agency’s Thriving Through Technology Team. She earned the Enabling Technology Leadership Certification through Shift, developed the Organization Technology Plan for the Board and is a driving force for Technology First initiatives.
Lynne also supports her younger brother who has a traumatic brain injury and developmental disabilities. Her experience with him inspires her commitment to the DD community at large. She understands, on a personal level, the needs of individuals and their family members and she’s passionate about providing that support.
Lynne holds a B.A. degree in Special Education from Miami University of Oxford, Ohio.
Matthew Kaufman
Dr. Matthew Kaufman is CEO of StationMD- a telemedicine company designed to improve access to medical care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and underserved populations. His team currently serves over 30,000 people across 12 states.
Dr. Kaufman has spent his career seeking to meet the needs of underserved populations through innovation. He received his MD at SUNY-Downstate and trained in emergency and internal medicine, hematology and oncology at Northwell Health. He has served as medical director of emergency departments and continues to practice emergency medicine in the New York City area. He was honored to be given the 2022 AAIDD Leadership Award and one of 2019’s Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Healthcare Innovators.
George Myers
George Myers has been the IT Director for the Ross County Board of DD since 2013 and has been an IT professional for the last 29 years, owning and operating an IT services company for 12 of those years. His passion for technology is primarily focused on the differences it can make in people’s lives, especially in simplifying mundane tasks or making previously impossible things possible for those with limitations.
It has been George’s great privilege and pleasure to lead two grant efforts in recent years that revolve around what technology can do for people with developmental disabilities. The first grant was offered by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and paid for the creation of a Mobile Smart Home that could be driven to counties in Southern Ohio and allowed people to see and experience firsthand the technology used to deliver Remote Support services. These services allow people with developmental disabilities to live more independently and with less staff members in their homes.
The second grant was offered by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and created a program called the Ohio Tech Ambassadors (ohiotechambassadors.org). This program called for the recruitment and hiring of five Ohioans with developmental disabilities who would talk to their peers about their personal experiences using technology and encourage them to try technology themselves. This grant was renewed in August of 2021 for two additional years and will run through June 30, 2023!
George has been married to his wife Christina since 1996 and thoroughly enjoys time with her and their three children, Maddie (22), George (19) and Will (19). Unlike some IT professionals, George loves being outside and his hobbies of hiking, camping, snowboarding, and golf all help keep him active!
Christopher Cooley
Jen Schlegal
Marci Straughter
Nathan Turner
Renee Wood
Robert Shuemak