Assistive Technology
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Our state-of-the-art program delivers instruction in the newest adaptive and computer equipment designed for people with visual impairments. Our team can even visit clients in the workplace or at home to assist with the installation and use of adaptive devices.
BOSS (Basic Office Skills for Success)
This introductory program gets clients comfortable with computer and assistive technology basics such as keystrokes, commands, mouse use, software functions, ZoomText, and screen reader (JAWS/job access with speech) functions. Whether you want to be more comfortable on your home computer, or are preparing for competitive job requirements, we can help you get the most out of assistive technology.
ProMOTE
With a solid foundation of skills through BOSS, our team introduces clients to skills needed to compete in a professional setting with advanced technology and computer skills. The National Industries for the Blind’s Professional Mastery of Office Technology for Employment (ProMOTE) training program provides advanced training to assistive technology users who are blind or vision impaired.
Our experienced instructors combine formal instruction with time-sensitive projects that simulates the demand and collaboration of the workplace. By the end of the four-week program, our ProMOTE graduates have mastered Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint, as well as internet research and creating accessible documents.
ProMOTE is designed for students who have intermediate knowledge of the assistive technology they use, may need supplementary instruction, or need additional training to be competitive in today’s job market.
Requirements
- Completed application
- Pass a computer assessment with a satisfactory score that will demonstrate knowledge of assistive technology, office, and window commands
- Be able to type at least 25 words per minute
Program Dates
- June 2-June 27, 2025. Applications are due Monday, May 12, 2025.
- October 6-October 31, 2025. Applications are due Monday, September 15, 2025.
- All classes will be held virtually. Space is limited, please apply now.
Program Cost
Program Cost: $3,500 per participant. Scholarship opportunities are available. Please contact Dora Petrosyan at dpetrosyan@visability.org or 412.368.4400 to learn more or request your application today.
Affiliated agencies of NIB are encouraged to apply for the Training and Compliance Grant which may cover up to 80 percent of the cost. Contact Marianne Haegeli at Mhaegeli@nsite.org for grant information.
Contact Information
If you have additional questions or need further information, please contact Dora Petrosyan at dpetrosyan@visability.org or 412.368.4400.