Technology First Community of Practice
Across the country, states, providers, and professionals are working to make Technology First more than a policy—it’s becoming a movement that redefines how people are supported to live, work, and connect. Yet, many still ask the same essential question: What does it really mean to live a Technology First approach, not just comply with it?
SHIFT, the nation’s recognized leader in Technology First education and accreditation, is answering that call with the creation of the National Technology First Community of Practice (CoP). This series responds directly to the growing demand for shared learning, real-world examples, and ongoing collaboration among professionals who are leading this work. Whether you’re from a state system, provider organization, or advocacy network, this community offers a space to learn from each other - and from SHIFT’s national expertise - while building the relationships that sustain transformation.
What the Community of Practice Offers
Each session is expert-facilitated yet deeply discussion-based, creating a supportive and energizing forum for open dialogue, practical problem-solving, and peer exchange. Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Exchange real-world examples and success stories that demonstrate how Technology First principles are being put into practice
- Reflect on challenges and lessons learned, gaining insights from colleagues who have faced similar hurdles
- Explore how Technology First values show up in daily decisions across systems, organizations, and individual supports
- Build a strong national network of peers who are shaping the future of human services through innovation and collaboration
Session Overview - October 15th 2026
Beyond the Usual: Creative Technologies Solving Everyday Challenges
Some of the most effective enabling technology solutions are not the most complex or expensive. Sometimes the biggest impact comes from using a familiar tool in a new way, combining technologies creatively, adapting something to fit a very specific need, or discovering a solution that simply makes everyday life easier.
This Community of Practice will focus on the technologies, adaptations, and creative approaches that have surprised us, worked better than expected, or solved a challenge in an unexpected way. Participants will share examples of mainstream and specialized technologies, low-cost solutions, custom adaptations, and other ideas that have helped people increase independence, privacy, safety, access, or control in their daily lives.
The conversation will go beyond simply identifying interesting technology. Together, we’ll explore what made a solution a good fit, how teams identified the opportunity, what was learned during implementation, and how similar thinking might be applied in other situations.
Come prepared to share a technology, adaptation, or creative solution that made you think, “I never would have thought of that,” and be ready to leave with a few new ideas of your own.
What You'll Gain
This is not a webinar or a lecture—it’s an interactive conversation led by SHIFT’s national experts and fueled by the experiences of those doing the work every day. These sessions are designed to build shared understanding and collective inspiration:
- To help participants re-center on why this work matters
- To illustrate what Technology First looks like in action
- And to strengthen a sense of community among professionals leading this transformation
What You Can Expect
Whether you’re just beginning your Technology First journey or deep into implementation, you’ll find this conversation to be both validating and energizing—a chance to connect with others who share your passion for making technology a meaningful part of people’s lives.
- Live virtual discussions (60–75 minutes) facilitated by SHIFT experts and leaders
- Engaging breakout conversations centered on real-world practice
- Spotlights on success from certified professionals across the country
- Opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and idea-sharing
- A growing network of Technology First professionals shaping the future together
Facilitator
Constance Harrington
SHIFT Director of Education & Accreditation
Upcoming Sessions
- October 15th 2026
- Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
- Discussion Based
- Virtual
Community of Practice Registration Has Moved!
Our Community of Practice has a new home on the SHIFT Learner Platform, making it simpler for enrolled SHIFT learners to find and register for upcoming sessions.
Check out the quick steps below to get started!
