[Trainer-Talk] Hello, I am a new subscriber

[Christopher Nusbaum]

Hi Josh:

Welcome to the list and to the AT training field! It's an exciting and rewarding place to be. Like you, I'm an LLC owner who works with students independently and contracts with outside entities. So, here are a few ideas; I'll put my contact info at the bottom if you'd like to talk more.

First, along with my work with the IMAGE Center for People with Disabilities here in Maryland (from which this email is being sent) and the students I work with privately, much of my teaching is done through a contract with Allied Instructional Services, a Virginia-based company that works with school districts in several states to provide a variety of services to students with disabilities. In their blindness division, they have TVI's, O&M instructors, and AT specialists who work as independent contractors with them, either on-site or remotely. In our case, when a student is evaluated for AT and those services are added to his/her IEP, AIS places that student with one of their AT providers, who works with the student at a specified time during the school day. I'm told that they are looking for multiple new AT trainers, particularly those with the certification you now have. Currently there is only one active placement open on the website, but it certainly doesn't hurt to get in touch with the director of AT services and get on the list for more. Please let me know off-list if you'd like to be put in touch with her; as others on this list can attest, they are a great group of educators to work with. Here's the link to the placements page: https://alliedinstructional.com/opportunities

In terms of getting your name out there for private students, I would suggest tapping into the wider blind community and advertising wherever you can. This includes Facebook groups, email listservs, groups at conventions, other in-person events, etc. Also, find something that makes your training unique. For example, I emphasize when I'm talking with people about my business that I have as much experience teaching adults as I do teaching kids and families. Also, as someone who is now working in the education system, I have experience with AT-related IEP goals and advocating for AT in that setting; thus, I can advise students and families on those subjects, which I now often find myself doing. This versatility has proven to be a big asset so far, though I'm still relatively new to the field on a professional level.

Finally, congratulations on graduating with your CATIS! I'm starting to work toward that certification and was looking this week at WSB's program. If you're willing, I would love to pick your brain about your experiences. Please find my contact info below.

Hope this helps!

Chris
Work email: canaccesssolutions at gmail.com
Work phone: (443) 487-6262
Scheduling link: https://calendly.com/canaccesssolutions

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From: Trainer-Talk <trainer-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Joshua Klander via Trainer-Talk
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Cc: Joshua Klander <joshklander at icloud.com>
Subject: [Trainer-Talk] Hello, I am a new subscriber

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Hi, all. I am a new subscriber to this mailing list. I am an assistive technology instructor looking for work. A little over a year ago, I graduated from World Services for the Blind with an ATI certification. I am applying to be a vendor through the state of MN, but that is taking some time due to necessary paperwork not yet being completed. I am also looking to get my name out there, and get some independent work. I have an llc. Any ideas for how I could get word out that I am looking for clients or work? I enjoy teaching, and I am excited to start my career.
Josh
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