Success Stories
Welcome, AccessTECH Cohort 4!
October 2025
We’re thrilled to kick off another inspiring journey with our newest group of future professionals in the field of technology. Cohort 4 gathered for orientation, marking the beginning of their transformative experience in the AccessTECH program. Our largest cohort radiates the energy, commitment, and community spirit that defines our mission. We can’t wait to see the impact these changemakers will make in the field!
AccessTECH Expands Outreach at the National Federation of The Blind 2025 State Convention
October 2025
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL —AccessTECH advanced its mission to broaden the adoption of accessible technology solutions at the National Federation of the Blind of Florida State Convention, held October 3–5 at the Hilton Altamonte Springs. The event provided a critical platform for statewide outreach and stakeholder engagement. Dr. Ayse Torres attended and presented on The AccessTECH project, highlighting its goals to an influential audience. The convention resulted in significant outcomes for the project, including the initiation of new partnerships with community chapters and commitments from several organizations to pilot future training modules. The increased visibility has paved the way for AccessTECH to accelerate its implementation plans across the nation.
In the photo: Robert Doyle, Director of the Florida Division of Blind Services; Javier Diaz, Computer Technology Services Instructor; Dr. Ayse Torres; Jorge Hernandez, former NFB of Florida President and current President of the Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind.
AccessTECH Builds Key Partnerships at the 2025 NET Summit
September 2025
Dr. Ayse Torres, Principal Investigator of AccessTECH, and Dr. Tim Tansey from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a key collaborator of the program, attended the prestigious 2025 NET Summit organized by the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) and the National Employment Team (NET). Held at the Microsoft Campus in Redmond, WA, this event brought together leaders in technology and accessibility, offering a unique platform to connect with industry giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Convergint.
The summit featured impactful sessions led by key figures like Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Microsoft’s Chief Accessibility Officer, and Hollie St. Jean, Amazon’s Community Partnerships Manager. Dr. Torres and Dr. Tansey engaged in meaningful discussions, fostering partnerships that align with AccessTECH’s mission to broaden access to advanced technology careers for individuals with disabilities. This milestone underscores AccessTECH’s dedication to shaping a more innovative future in the tech industry.
Project AccessTECH Featured on VRTAC-QM Podcast!
September 2025
We’re excited to share that Project AccessTECH was featured on the latest episode of the VRTAC-QM Manager Minute Podcast! In this episode, Carol Pankow speaks with Dr. Ayse Torres and Dr. Javad Hashemi from Florida Atlantic University to explore how Project AccessTECH is redefining possibilities for VR agencies, tech employers, and aspiring participants alike. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation — listen to the podcast now and join the movement to create a more collaborative future in tech!
Check out the podcast here!
Rapid Growth – Third Cohort Begins September
September 2025
The momentum doesn’t stop here! Our third cohort is set to begin in September 2025, and we are already seeing rapid program growth. With new students joining every few months, AccessTECH is steadily building a strong community of future technology professionals.
This exciting expansion demonstrates the increasing demand for innovative workforce development programs. We look forward to celebrating the next wave of students as they embark on their Tech Prep journey and beyond.
Second Cohort on the Rise
July 2025
We welcomed our second cohort of AccessTECH students. This group has now completed their own Tech Prep journey, building valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and professionalism.
We celebrate their accomplishments and are proud to see how quickly the program is expanding. With each new class, AccessTECH continues to strengthen its impact—proving that students of all backgrounds can thrive with the right support and training.
First Graduates Tech-Prep
July 2025
We are thrilled to share that Cohort One has officially graduated Tech Prep! These pioneering students set the foundation for what AccessTECH will continue to achieve: equipping individuals with disabilities for success in high-demand technology careers. Their hard work, dedication, and growth mark a milestone for both them and the program.
First Cohort Launches
June 2025
AccessTECH proudly launched its first-ever student cohort. Over the course of eight weeks, students immersed themselves in Tech Prep—our soft skills and workforce readiness training designed to bridge the gap between education and employment.
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