Accessible Tech: Creating and Working in an Inclusive Digital World

Join us for an insightful virtual panel discussion focused on disability inclusion and accessibility within the rapidly evolving tech industry. We'll bring together a diverse group of experts—from accessibility professionals and software developers to advocates and tech leaders—to explore how we can create technology and workplaces that truly serve everyone.

What We'll Explore:

• Beyond the Checklist: We'll dive into the difference between simply meeting accessibility standards (like WCAG) and embedding inclusive design principles into the core of product development.


• The Power of Lived Experience: Hear from panelists with disabilities about how their experiences have directly informed their work and how companies can better incorporate the perspectives of disabled employees and users throughout the development lifecycle.


• Creating a Culture of Accessibility: Learn actionable strategies for fostering a company culture where accessibility is a shared responsibility, not just the job of one team. This includes topics like accessible hiring, creating supportive employee resource groups (ERGs), and building allyship.


• The Future of Inclusive Tech: We'll discuss emerging technologies, such as AI and extended reality (XR), and how to ensure they are designed to be accessible from the ground up, avoiding the creation of new digital barriers.

Panelists:

• Laura Trybus, University of Pittsburgh, Center for Teaching and Learning


• Pariss Coleman, UNC Charlotte, Center for Teaching and Learning


• Shireen Hafeez, Deaf Kids Code