The 2026 New York Metro Abilities International Accessibility Conference has officially released its full speaker line-up and schedule. Taking place from April 30 to May 1 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, the signature event is designed for complex rehab technology (CRT) professionals.
Over two days, more than 600 industry leaders will gather for an intensive look at the latest clinical strategies and assistive solutions. Highlights include:
- Professional Development: Earn up to 1.0 IACET CEUs through expert-led plenary sessions, workshops, and RESNA scientific presentations.
- Diverse Programming: Explore sessions on adaptive recreation, accessible travel, and home design.
- Practical Skills: Join hands-on workshops covering everything from manual wheelchair techniques, posture care management, to service dogs.
- Networking: Connect with specialists to foster collaboration and drive independence across the industry.
There are two distinct content tracks curated to bridge the gap between clinical expertise, technical innovation, and business strategy: Adapted Living and Improved Patient Outcomes. The speakers will present across both tracks.
A selection of thought-leaders featured are highlighted below and a full list of speakers for the New York Metro conference can be found here.
– Rita Stanley, President at RESNA. Talk: From Small Acts to Big Wins: Policy and Advocacy in Assistive Technology.
– Carmen DiGiovine, PhD, ATP/SMS, RET, Rehabilitation Engineer and Clinical Associate Professor at Occupational Therapy Division-School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Ohio State University. Talk: Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Equipment Evaluation.
– Dave Stevens, Motivational Speaker/Disability Advocate, 7X Emmy Winner ESPN @davestevensspeaks_ . Talk: The Sports Prescription: Navigating Conversations around Adaptive Sports.
– Nicole Zaino, Paralympian & Director of Clinical Research at LUCI Mobility. Talks: 1. The Sports Prescription: Navigating Conversations around Adaptive Sports 2. From Metrics to Meaning: Leveraging Data in Assistive Technology
The conference offers two designated tracks to select from:
Improving Patient Outcomes
This track is tailored for occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), assistive technology professionals (ATPs), and other medical experts looking to advance their clinical expertise and earn continuing education units (CEUs).
Participants will engage in evidence-based sessions focused on best practices, innovative assessment techniques, and intervention strategies designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Topics covered:
- Manual wheelchair skills: propulsion strategies, turning and indoor mobility, wheelies plus curb negotiation, and advanced outdoor mobility skills.
- Power wheelchairs, sessions will cover indoor and outdoor mobility.
- Wheelchair evaluations – tricks to ensure the best outcomes plus manual wheelchair setup, adjustment and impact on function.
- 24-hour posture care management – theory & lab
- Supported standing mobility
- Pediatric seating care
- Role and responsibility of the CRT Supplier Professional
- Pathway to professional practice in CRT Supply, the iNRRTS CRT Supplier Certificate Program
- Leveraging Technology to enhance ATP-Referring Clinician Collaboration
Through expert-led workshops and interactive discussions, attendees will be able to sharpen their skills, meet certification requirements, and stay at the forefront of standards in Complex Rehab Technology (CRT).
Adapted Living
sponsored by Fora Travel
The Adapted Living track highlights the latest innovations and practical solutions designed to boost independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
With a diverse range of topics, this track is designed to provide valuable insights for every attendee—whether you are a clinician, supplier, caregiver, or user.
Sessions will include:
- Alternative drive controls
- Travel in a wheelchair
- Service dogs
- Finance and grants
- Accessible overseas travel
Research
Attendees will gain first-hand access to cutting-edge research through a series of scientific platforms and technical poster displays:
Scientific Paper Platform – This moderated, 60-minute session showcases 4 to 5 researchers sharing evidence-based findings designed for immediate use in the field. It’s an ideal opportunity for practitioners to stay ahead of AT innovations and earn IACET CEUs.
Scientific Posters – Browse cutting-edge research in a visual, easy-to-digest format. Meet the researchers during designated Q&A times to discuss their findings in detail. Participation qualifies for one RESNA contact hour.
About the Conference
“By bridging the gap between clinicians, executives, and end-users, this New York based conference creates a unique ecosystem for innovation,” says Katy Roberts, managing director of the Abilities Portfolio. “As a U.S. gathering that unites the full spectrum of the CRT industry, it is an essential date for every professional in the field.”
Co-located alongside the established Abilities Expo, the professional conference is scheduled for the Thursday and Friday before the main doors open to the public. As an added benefit, delegates enjoy optional free admission to the Expo throughout the weekend.
You can purchase tickets to the New York Metro conference here.
Alongside the New York Metro conference, there is one further Abilities International Accessibility Conference taking place in 2026 in Chicago (June 11-12).
