Technology First Community of Practice

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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:

Session Overview - November 19th 2026

How Do You Do That? Sharing Technology First Practices That Work

Every organization approaches Technology First a little differently, and sometimes the best ideas come from discovering how others do things. Join us for an interactive Community of Practice where participants share their experiences, compare approaches, ask questions, and discover practical ideas from others doing this work. From identifying opportunities for enabling technology to navigating the challenges of implementation, we’ll exchange ideas about the everyday practices that help turn Technology First principles into meaningful outcomes.

What will we be talking about? Well, that’s up to you! Maybe you’ve been wondering how other organizations introduce technology to someone who has never used it before. Perhaps you’re curious about how others engage staff, measure meaningful outcomes, or troubleshoot technology that isn’t working as expected. Or maybe you’ve discovered a particularly effective process, tool, or approach that you’d love to share. These are just a few possibilities. The conversation will be shaped by the questions, challenges, experiences, and ideas participants bring to the table.

Who should attend? This conversation is for anyone involved in putting Technology First into practice, including organizational leaders, enabling technology professionals, program managers, supervisors, and others who help people explore, implement, and successfully use enabling technology. Whether you’re experienced in Technology First or just beginning to apply what you’ve learned, your perspective is valuable.

You never know when someone else’s approach will give you the idea you’ve been looking for, or when your experience will do the same for them. That’s the value of asking, “How do you do that?”

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:

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.

Facilitator
Constance Harrington

SHIFT Director of Education & Accreditation

Upcoming Sessions
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!

Choose your Path