Who We Are

CAT’s Client Services program provides comprehensive assistive technology assessment, training, consultation and support to help individuals with disabilities achieve their educational, vocational and independent living goals. Our team of six professional staff delivers fee-based services and operates several state- and institution-sponsored programs, serving individuals throughout Western New York and beyond.

Client Services programs include:

  • Assistive Technology Center & Loan Program for the New York State Commission for the Blind
  • Assistive Technology Service Provider for New York State Adult Career and Continuing Education Services–Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR)
  • Western Regional Provider for the New York State Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program
  • Assistive Technology Consultation Provider for Accessibility Resources at UB

Through these programs, CAT provides direct assessment, training and support to approximately 350 clients each year, helping them pursue their educational and vocational goals. CAT also provides outreach, information and technology demonstrations to an additional 500 people annually through a regional network of more than 100 community agencies.

Our History

In 1988, CAT was established within the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Related Professions—now the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions. CAT published the first textbook on assistive technology through the American Occupational Therapy Association, founded the peer-reviewed journal Technology & Disability, established the original Rehabilitation Engineering Center on Aging (1991-2001), and operated the Rehabilitation Engineering Center on Technology Transfer for twenty-five years (1993-2018).