Date: Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Category: General

This month we spoke with RESNA member and Super Chair of the SIG/PSG, Ana Allegretti, about their experience in Assistive Technology and the upcoming RESNA Conference.

First, let’s get the fun stuff out of the way. Can you tell us more about the SIG/PSG Social Event at the Conference this year?

YES! I am SUPER excited about that. We are organizing a pre-conference Happy-Hour on Sunday (07/23) at 7pm at Tujague in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

Tujague is the second oldest restaurant in New Orleans and home to the oldest stand-up bar in America.  It is also conveniently located very near to our conference hotel.

Everyone is welcome!  There will be an open bar and free appetizers. We are looking forward to seeing you there.

Sounds great, thanks! Now, how did you get your start in assistive technology?

I am originally from Brazil and obtained my OT degree there. My first job was at the largest outpatient rehab center in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I worked as an OT. I fell in love with how to use AT devices with children with disabilities so they can attend school.

In 2002, I went to the University of Pittsburgh and completed a 2-month fellowship at the Center of Assistive Technology. During that time, I had the opportunity to attend my first RESNA conference, which was a great experience. After that, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the field of AT. It has come full circle, and I'm thrilled to be on the conference planning committee this year, 21 years since I attended my first RESNA conference.

How have you seen the field of assistive technology develop over the years?

After my internship experience, I applied for the master's program at Pitt, and was lucky enough to receive a scholarship. I remained at the University of Pittsburgh from 2002 to 2011, earning a master's degree, a Ph.D., and completing a 2-year postdoc.

As a graduate student, I was involved in numerous AT research projects and collaborated with clinicians on various committees. Over the years, I have witnessed significant improvements in AT products, changes in funding policies, and greater collaboration between clinicians and manufacturers to find solutions for clients. While there is still much work to be done, I believe we are on the right track.

What have been your volunteer roles within RESNA?

I began volunteering at the conferences as a graduate student. Later, I served as the Vice-Chair of the International Special Interest Group (SIG) for two years. Currently, I hold the position of Super Chair for SIGs and PSGs (Professional Specialty Groups). Additionally, I am a board member and part of the conference planning committee.

Why do you choose to volunteer with RESNA?

There are several reasons why I choose to volunteer with RESNA. First, I strongly align with RESNA's mission. I am passionate about the field of AT and want to actively contribute and be involved. Volunteering allows me to network with other professionals in the field, gain firsthand knowledge of pressing issues, and find ways to contribute to the advancement of AT.

Do you have any advice for AT professionals or those new to the field?

My advice is to get involved. Become a member of RESNA, participate in committees, and contribute to the field of AT. We all have knowledge to share and learn from one another. Utilize RESNA as a platform to network with experienced professionals, make use of RESNA's resources, and challenge yourself to improve every day. Consider taking the ATP (Assistive Technology Professional) and SMS (Seating and Mobility Specialist) certifications to further enhance your expertise.

Why are you excited for the RESNA 2023 Annual Conference?

I am thrilled to have the opportunity to see everyone in person at the RESNA 2023 Annual Conference. I am particularly excited about the Experience Hall and the insightful presentations that await us. In addition to the SIG/PSG Happy Hour on Sunday, we will be hosting lunch roundtables on Monday. Anyone that would like to learn more about our SIGs and PSGs can sit down at a table and talk to one of our volunteer leaders. Finally, I will be spending some time in the RESNA Hub, a new addition to the conference, where anyone who is interested can come and talk to me about RESNA and volunteering. Look for me on the RESNA Hub schedule, available soon in the conference app!

RSVP to SIG/PSG Happy Hour