RESNA – The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America

What is society’s main goal?

RESNA is the premier professional organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of people with disabilities through increasing access to technology solutions. Our mission is to maximize the health and well being of people with disabilities and older adults through technology. Our strengths include an excellent reputation as experts on assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering , a passionate and committed volunteer leadership, and a diverse membership that represents the breadth of the field.

Is there a personal story behind the establishment of the society?

RESNA was started in August 1979 at a meeting of the Inter-Agency Conference on Rehabilitation Engineering when participants Douglas Hobson, Colin McLaurin, James Reswick, Anthony Staros, and Joseph Traub offered a resolution to form the “Rehabilitation Engineering Society of North America.” Over 200 people at the meeting requested membership in the new organizationIn 1980 RESNA became incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation (501(c)(3) under the laws of the State of Illinois, so RehabWeek Chicago is a chance to return to our roots.. Since those humble beginnings, RESNA has grown and expanded its membership to include clinicians, researchers, consumers, developers, manufacturers, and suppliers.

Why did your society decide to take part in the RehabWeek?

This is RESNA’s second RehabWeek. We also participated in RehabWeek 2019 in Toronto. Our members enjoyed the opportunity to meet and network with international attendees and share research findings.  We’re delighted to be a part of RehabWeek 2025.

Why is RehabWeek unique and why should people attend?

RehabWeek offers attendees the opportunity to meet like-minded colleagues from all over the world, find out about the latest research in rehabilitation and assistive technology, and create lasting relationships for collaboration and partnership.  

What do you think will be the next big topic in the field? Why?

Artificial intelligence is a current big topic that will continue to influence the field for many years. We are just now starting to understand and harness its potential. Speech generating devices, for example, have started using AI.

Any success story you would like to share?

With growing membership and certification, introducing a year-round popular webinar series and other brand new educational opportunities, a new Maker Special Interest Group, and elevating our standards work with a new U.S.  Technical Advisiory Group for ISO/TC 173/SC 3 – Aids for ostomy and incontinence, RESNA has been busy this year! Stay up-to-date with what’s new at RESNA by visiting the RESNA website and subscribing to our weekly RESNA Newbriefs.