Assistive Technology for Employment

Your Career, Your Workplace, Your Success

Our dedicated team at the Michigan Assistive Technology Program believes that meaningful employment can be a component of independence and self-determination. Through assistive technology for the workplace, we're helping individuals with disabilities gain access where and how they want in their employment goals. 

"We are by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. We use AT ourselves every day in our jobs and are here to problem solve and find solutions to help you at your workplace." - MATP Specialist

What is Employment Assistive Technology?

People with disabilities work in every aspect of our community so AT for employment can encompass any device used in any type of setting where we work. From offices to classrooms, stores, to farms, parks and playgrounds, there is AT to help you in your job. We have tools for computer access, organizing and reminding, task breakdown, physical access, ergonomics, and mental health.

Employment AT includes any device, tool, or system that helps you perform job tasks more efficiently, comfortably, and independently. These range from simple adaptations to sophisticated technologies, all designed to remove barriers and create accommodations that allow you to succeed in your chosen career.

How We Fill the Gap

Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) provides customized solutions that meet the needs of individuals with disabilities and employers to help people with disabilities prepare for and engage in employment in Michigan. MATP does not supplant their work, we are a supplement. We work in the gaps—supporting people who are not using MRS services or who are looking for AT for employment outside the scope of MRS. Perhaps you are not at risk of losing your job, but want solutions to make your workplace more accessible, and devices to be able to do your job, we are here to help.

MDRC MATP staff are also happy to coordinate and work with professionals, including MRS, to support individuals with disabilities in their AT goals.

We offer demonstrations of various AI devices and tools that can enhance workplace productivity and accessibility. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, these technologies are becoming increasingly important in the workplace for tasks like real-time transcription, document summarization, automated scheduling, voice-controlled computing, and data analysis. Our demonstrations can help you understand how these AI solutions might fit into your specific work environment and tasks.

Why Employment AT Matters

The right assistive technology in the workplace can:

  • Create equal opportunities for employment
  • Increase independence and efficiency in job tasks
  • Reduce workplace strain and fatigue
  • Enable participation in team activities and meetings
  • Enhance communication with colleagues and clients
  • Support career advancement opportunities
  • Improve job satisfaction and retention
  • Showcase your skills and abilities without barriers
  • Contribute to workplace diversity and inclusion
  • Demonstrate innovation to employers and colleagues

Examples of Employment AT

Our inventory includes a wide range of solutions designed for various workplace settings:

dragon naturally speaking logo green flame

Voice Recognition Soft

 

Dragon NaturallySpeaking is voice recognition software that converts speech to text with impressive accuracy, allowing users to write emails, documents, and reports simply by talking. It's ideal for employees with repetitive strain injuries, dyslexia, limited hand mobility, or anyone who thinks faster than they type. Beyond dictation, Dragon can also control computer functions through voice commands, making it a comprehensive solution for hands-free productivity and workplace independence.

black vertical mouse with usb

Ergonomic Mouse

 

This Wireless Ergonomic Mouse features a unique vertical design that keeps the hand and wrist in a natural, handshake position, reducing strain and discomfort during extended computer use. Perfect for employees with carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or repetitive strain injuries, this mouse helps prevent workplace-related hand and wrist pain while maintaining accuracy and productivity.

green gray and white mop/vacuum combo

Lightweight, Ergonomic Mop/Vacuums

These devices combine vacuuming and mopping in one lightweight, cordless device, reducing the physical demands of cleaning jobs. Its upright design eliminates bending and heavy lifting, while the spray mop feature means no more wringing out heavy mop heads or carrying water buckets. For employees with back injuries, limited mobility, or strength challenges, this tool makes floor cleaning faster, easier, and less physically taxing, helping maintain job performance and reduce workplace strain.

Success Stories

Ginger began working with the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) at the recommendation of her Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) counselor. Assessments showed customer service was a good fit for her interests and skills, but Ginger was concerned that her typing speed might hold her back.  She met with an Assistive Technology (AT) Specialist, who introduced her to Dragon NaturallySpeaking, a voice recognition software that lets users dictate instead of type. Ginger started learning the basics of dictation and how to speak clearly for best results. Although the program was complex and a bit overwhelming at first, she was eager to keep learning.

 

To support her practice, MATP loaned Ginger a laptop with Dragon installed to practice.  At a follow-up meeting, she proudly shared that she had more than doubled her typing speed. She was growing more comfortable with the software, though still learning features like editing, moving the cursor, and navigating files and websites.

 

Because Dragon has so many features, MRS and MATP arranged for continued one-on-one support. After a few more sessions, Ginger and her counselor felt confident in her ability to use Dragon for work. MRS has agreed to purchase the software once Ginger secures a permanent job.

Invite Us To

We'd love to help create accessible workplaces! Invite us to:

  • Your IEP transition planning meeting
  • Your workplace
  • Your home office
  • Your classroom
  • Your storefront
  • Your career day at your school
  • Meet with you and your employer to explore options
  • Your planning meeting with your Michigan Rehabilitation Services counselor
  • Your college career center
  • Your internship experience
  • Your job fair or employment expo
  • Your disability employee resource group
  • Your HR department training session

Try Employment AT for Free

Our FREE demonstrations and device loans allow you to explore options in your own workplace before making decisions. We come to YOU anywhere in Michigan, bringing examples of employment AT solutions that might help address the specific challenges in your job.

Whether you're starting a new position, adapting to changes in your abilities, or simply looking for ways to work more efficiently and comfortably, we're here to help you discover the possibilities.

Your career, your workplace, your technology—let's explore the possibilities together.

Contact MATP: