Emma Smith, MScOT, PhD, ATP/SMS

How I got into the field

I was working as an occupational therapist in community practice and found myself doing more and more AT related work to facilitate my clients’ participation. I saw what a huge impact a wheelchair or a communication device could have on their independence, but more importantly their sense of autonomy and well-being. I was hooked!

Important event(s) that influenced my early decision to get into the assistive technology field

I worked with a young child who had never had independent movement. Their parents had been told they would need to be ‘as smart as Stephen Hawking’ to drive a powered wheelchair by someone, and they had lost hope. The child was school aged, and also had no means of communication. I was so completely shocked that I threw myself into ensuring this child had access to what they needed – it completely changed my outlook on providing services, and the important work we do in AT.

Why I chose the AT field

AT is such a broad and varied field that I don’t get bored! I love learning about new developments in technology, and how they can be applied as AT. I love the real difference we can make in people’s lives.

Why the field is important to me and the central focus of my work

I have seen first hand what a difference AT can make in someone’s well-being, sense of self, and ability to participate in the community. Unfortunately, I have also seen how poor policies and systems which do not consider the actual needs of people who use AT can limit or even prevent access to critical technologies and related services. The central focus of my work is on developing rights based policies and systems at the national and international level to ensure as many people as possible get access to appropriate AT, according to their individual needs.

My memorable successes and greatest contributions to the field

I have had the great fortune to have been asked to participate in some international initiatives with the World Health Organization, which have been incredibly memorable. One recent one which stands out was my contributions to both the WHO Wheelchair Provision Guidelines and the WHO UNICEF Global Report on Assistive Technology. Both these documents/reports represent great steps forward in terms of global access to AT. I also am quite proud of my contributions as Editor in Chief of RESNA’s Assistive Technology journal – as a community we are advancing evidence in the field and improving access to AT for all.

My most memorable failures

The first time I applied to present at a RESNA conference, I was rejected. I knew I had something to contribute, and it was tough to take! I have since gone on to present at RESNA and many other conferences, but the first rejection is always difficult.

On the future of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology

More and more I expect we will see blending of what is considered technology for disability and what is considered mainstream technology. Eventually, I suspect most AT will simply be technology that is used by anyone who wants or needs it, with features which can be used or not used depending on your level of function. Of course there will always be some very specific needs, like customized wheelchairs, however I believe the distinction between assistive technology and mainstream technology will become even more fluid than it is today.

My role within RESNA and what it gave back to me

I have had a number of roles within RESNA – everything from SIG chair and Super Chair to PSB Co-Chair to Editor in Chief of the AT Journal. Taken together, they have given me an incredible network of colleagues and friends, a community who shares my interests and values, and opportunities for leadership and personal growth. I am grateful to RESNA for helping me become the professional I am today!

On the future of RESNA

I think RESNA has great potential for the future as a leader in pushing policies, systems, education, and certification forward in the field. RESNA’s strength as an interdisciplinary organization is the ability to understand AT from multiple perspectives, and bring those to policy makers throughout North America, and beyond.

My suggestions for those just entering the field

Never be afraid to talk to anyone – the field is friendly. I remember how nerve wracking it was to introduce myself and talk to some of the people in leadership when I was new to the field. The nerves were for nothing – everyone was always welcoming and generous with their knowledge and time. Get involved and you will have an incredible network in no time!