Tech First SHIFT Logo
SHIFT Learner Login

TN DDA Projects

Technology First Project
Employment First Project

Technology First
Education & Accreditation Project

TN DDA’s Division of Program Innovation and SHIFT are proud to partner once again

 to advance Tennessee’s Technology First commitment. 

Applications are now open for Individual education only, and space is limited.

See further details below. A link to the application can be found under “Apply As An Individual Education.”

Project Elements

What is SHIFT?

SHIFT is the nationally recognized leader in advancing Technology First standards and best practices across the long-term services and supports field. We do that through providing comprehensive education, professional certifications, organizational accreditation, and practical tools and resources.

SHIFT’s philosophy is that, in order to be successful in adopting an Technology First approach to services, people at every level of an agency or organization need to be knowledgeable about and involved in the process. The following Technology First coursework was designed with this in mind.

Technology First Foundations is most appropriate for direct support professionals, self-advocates, families and other supporters who want an introduction to enabling technology integration. This is a live, 2-hour education event.

Enabling Technology Integration Specialist Certification is most appropriate for professionals who specialize in the integration of enabling technology. These professionals often work with a provider organization or state agency to complete assessments, identify and implement appropriate technology solutions, provide training, and serve as a resource and mentor to other staff.

Enabling Technology Navigator Certification is most appropriate for people who are responsible for developing and writing person-centered plans (case managers, service coordinators, program coordinators, etc.).

Enabling Technology Leadership Certification is most appropriate for the person who leads an organization in the process of a Technology First culture shift. Topics covered include essential components of a cultural transformation, best practices and policies, and national trends.

Technology First Project Page

Need More Information?

Beth Dyer

SHIFT Education & Projects Coordinator

Questions about Technology First education and accreditation should be directed to Beth.

beth.dyer@techfirstshift.com

Milton Neuenschwander

TN DDA's Director of Enabling Technology

Questions about the scholarship program should be directed to Milton.

Milton.Neuenschwander@tn.gov

woman with down sydrome sitting on a desk using a laptop

“Enabling Technology is the use of various forms of devices and tech to support a person with disabilities to live as independently as possible. These types of technologies include sensors, mobile applications, remote support systems, and other smart devices. Enabling Technology can support a person in navigating their jobs and communities, gain more control of their environment, and provide remote support and reminders to assist a person in independent living.”

-TN DDA’s ENABLING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

Employment First
Education & Accreditation Project

TN DDA’s Division of Program Innovation and SHIFT are proud to partner once again to provide

Employment First education and accreditation.

Applications are now open for Individual education only, and space is limited.

See further details below. A link to the application can be found under “Apply As An Individual Education.”

Project Elements

What is SHIFT?

SHIFT is a recognized leader in advancing Employment First standards and best practices across the long-term services and supports field. We do that through providing comprehensive education, professional certifications, organizational accreditation, and practical tools and resources.

SHIFT’s philosophy is that, in order to be successful in adopting an Employment First approach to services, people at every level of an agency or organization need to be knowledgeable about and involved in the process. The following Employment First coursework was designed with this in mind.

Employment First Foundations gives staff at all levels of an organization foundational knowledge for an Employment First approach. This course reinforces the fact that everyoneis expected to support people with employment outcomes, regardless of the position they hold in the organization. This is a live, 2-hour education event.

Employment First Job Coach Certification is for professionals who support individuals in the workplace, including current job coaches and those exploring job coaching as a career path.

Employment First Job Developer Certification (ACRE-Approved) is designed for professionals who develop and create employment opportunities for people receiving long-term support services — including current job developers and those preparing to step into this role.

Employment First Leadership Certification is for professionals responsible for leading Employment First culture change within their organization or system.

Need More Information?

Beth Dyer

SHIFT Education & Projects Coordinator

Questions about Employment First education and accreditation should be directed to Beth.

beth.dyer@techfirstshift.com

Jeremy Norden-Paul

TN State Director of Program Innovation

Questions about the scholarship program should be directed to Jeremy.

Jeremy.Norden-Paul@tn.gov

Technical people doing work

“My biggest takeaway from the  Employment First certification with SHIFT was learning how important it is to prioritize competitive integrated employment and person centered support for individuals with I/DD. The certification reinforced the value of focusing on each person’s strengths, goals, and independence while building stronger community and employer partnerships to create meaningful employment opportunities.”

-TN DDA Employment First Scholarship Recipient

Choose your Path

Technology First
Employment First