Tech First Talk - Session 18- "Breaking Barriers: How AI and Innovation Are Redefining Independence in Assistive Technology" 1.28.25
Session Title: Breaking Barriers: How AI and Innovation Are Redefining Independence in Assistive Technology
Session Description: Assistive technology has come a long way, but current solutions, especially in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), often fall short in meeting the diverse and critical needs of users. With an abundance of one-off point solutions, these gaps leave many unable to fully express themselves or access the independence they deserve. Innovations like Ner Chat are challenging this status quo. By combining AI with features like Leaf symbol integration and videoconferencing for telehealth and teletherapy, new innovations are reaching users who have historically been overlooked—picking up those falling through the cracks.
This talk will explore how AI is transforming assistive technology, from enabling users to express urgent needs with greater clarity to creating hyper-personalized tools that adapt to the individual. We’ll also look ahead to the exciting possibilities of AI-driven solutions that promise to redefine independence and autonomy for millions. Together, we’ll uncover how the next wave of innovation is not just advancing technology, but empowering lives.
About Dylan: Dylan Makani is the co-founder of Ner Chat, an innovative assistive technology platform designed to enhance communication independence and autonomy for individuals of all abilities. Combining his passion for neuroscience and technology, Dylan aims to make a meaningful impact on people's lives through cutting-edge software solutions. Dylan is a recent graduate of Vanderbilt University, where he earned degrees in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health, and Society. With a robust background in neuroscience research from both Columbia and Vanderbilt Universities, he bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and practical application.
Session Title: Breaking Barriers: How AI and Innovation Are Redefining Independence in Assistive Technology
Session Description: Assistive technology has come a long way, but current solutions, especially in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), often fall short in meeting the diverse and critical needs of users. With an abundance of one-off point solutions, these gaps leave many unable to fully express themselves or access the independence they deserve. Innovations like Ner Chat are challenging this status quo. By combining AI with features like Leaf symbol integration and videoconferencing for telehealth and teletherapy, new innovations are reaching users who have historically been overlooked—picking up those falling through the cracks.
This talk will explore how AI is transforming assistive technology, from enabling users to express urgent needs with greater clarity to creating hyper-personalized tools that adapt to the individual. We’ll also look ahead to the exciting possibilities of AI-driven solutions that promise to redefine independence and autonomy for millions. Together, we’ll uncover how the next wave of innovation is not just advancing technology, but empowering lives.
About Dylan: Dylan Makani is the co-founder of Ner Chat, an innovative assistive technology platform designed to enhance communication independence and autonomy for individuals of all abilities. Combining his passion for neuroscience and technology, Dylan aims to make a meaningful impact on people's lives through cutting-edge software solutions. Dylan is a recent graduate of Vanderbilt University, where he earned degrees in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health, and Society. With a robust background in neuroscience research from both Columbia and Vanderbilt Universities, he bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and practical application.
Session Title: Breaking Barriers: How AI and Innovation Are Redefining Independence in Assistive Technology
Session Description: Assistive technology has come a long way, but current solutions, especially in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), often fall short in meeting the diverse and critical needs of users. With an abundance of one-off point solutions, these gaps leave many unable to fully express themselves or access the independence they deserve. Innovations like Ner Chat are challenging this status quo. By combining AI with features like Leaf symbol integration and videoconferencing for telehealth and teletherapy, new innovations are reaching users who have historically been overlooked—picking up those falling through the cracks.
This talk will explore how AI is transforming assistive technology, from enabling users to express urgent needs with greater clarity to creating hyper-personalized tools that adapt to the individual. We’ll also look ahead to the exciting possibilities of AI-driven solutions that promise to redefine independence and autonomy for millions. Together, we’ll uncover how the next wave of innovation is not just advancing technology, but empowering lives.
About Dylan: Dylan Makani is the co-founder of Ner Chat, an innovative assistive technology platform designed to enhance communication independence and autonomy for individuals of all abilities. Combining his passion for neuroscience and technology, Dylan aims to make a meaningful impact on people's lives through cutting-edge software solutions. Dylan is a recent graduate of Vanderbilt University, where he earned degrees in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health, and Society. With a robust background in neuroscience research from both Columbia and Vanderbilt Universities, he bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and practical application.
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