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of this publication.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Eric Mansfield, President MobilityWorks 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 (800) 638-8267 eric.mansfield@mobilityworks.com
Jud DeMott, Vice President Access2Mobility 12406 SH 155 South Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 592-6760 jud.demott@gmail.com
Ron Mohr, Secretary Clock Mobility 603 N Waverly Rd Lansing, Michigan 48917 (517) 272-4488 ronm@clockmobility.com
Catherine Martin, Treasurer Ilderton Conversions 701 South Main Street High Point, NC 27260 (336) 841-6100 phone cmartin@ilderton.com
Steve Dawson, Component Manufacturer Rep. Harmar Mobility
Randy Schiller, Manufacturer Rep. Vantage Mobility 5202 S. 28th Place Phoenix, AZ 85040 (800) 348-8267 randys@vantagemobility.com
Christian Quandt, Past President Advanced Wheels 33 Bradley Park Road East Granby, CT 06026 (860) 653-8064 christian@advancedwheels.com
Russ Newton, Canadian President Sure Grip 4850 Route 102 Upper Kingsclear, NB E3E 1P8 (800) 506-6666 russ@suregrip-hvl.com
Susie Touchinsky, Allied Health Professional Rep. Adaptive Mobility Services 1120 Centre Turnpike Orwigsburg, PA 17961 (484) 650-2280 susie@adaptivemobility.com
Michelle Szumski, Edu/Gov/NonProfit Rep.
Texas Workforce Commission 101 East 15th Street Austin, TX 78778 (512) 936-3462 phone michelle.szumski@twc.texas.gov
Trevorr Jurgensen, Rep. at Large 1 MobilityWorks 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 (800) 638-8267 trevorr.jurgensen@mobilityworks.com
Alex Cook, Rep. at Large 2
Superior Van & Mobility 1506 Lakeshore Court Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 447-8267 scook@superiorvan.com
Corey Kupsh, Rep. at Large 3 A & J Mobility 333 Washington Street Valders, WI 54245 (920) 775-4104 coreyk@aandjvans.com
Christina Duggan, Rep. at Large 4 Creative Mobility Group 32217 Stephenson Hwy Madison Heights, MI 48071 (248) 577-5430 cduggan@creativemobilitygroup.com
www.mgaresearch.com
@mgaresearchcorp
STAFF DIRECTORY
Toby Cummings, CAE CEO toby.cummings@nmeda.org
Chuck Hardy
Director of Quality & Compliance chuck.hardy@nmeda.org
Kristen Clevidence Quality Program Manager kristen.clevidence@nmeda.org
Shawn Richmond Government Relations & Policy Manager shawn.richmond@nmeda.org
NMEDA'S PAST DUE INVOICE PROGRAM
HAS ALREADY RECOVERED MORE THAN $23 MILLION IN VA PAYMENTS FOR DEALER MEMBERS SO FAR IN 2025.
SEPTEMBER 2025
$23,927,787
If you have VA invoices 30+ days past due, submit them through our Past Due Invoice Program.
EMAIL:
CEO’s Message
NMEDA Conference 2026:
Reconnect, Recharge, Redefine Mobility in Orlando
Toby Cummings, CAE
NMEDA - CEO
As we prepare for our 2026 NMEDA Conference & Expo this coming February 20-22 in Orlando, Florida, I’m excited to share how we’re bringing our theme “Reconnect, Recharge, Redefine Mobility” to life through several game-changing developments. This carefully crafted program reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional value for the entire mobility community. It offers fresh opportunities for every attendee, whether dealer, manufacturer, technician, or allied health professional to reconnect with colleagues, recharge their professional passion and redefine their approach to success.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room. This will be our first conference in five years without co-location with the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED). While ADED will not be serving as a conference partner this year, we remain committed to our strong collaboration and encourage all driver rehabilitation professionals to attend. We look forward to welcoming driver rehabilitation professionals at the conference and will continue to offer sessions and events relevant to their expertise. With both AOTA and ADED CE/CEUs to be applied for, we have redesigned our educational experience to better serve our industry professionals and allied health partners.
Dealers can look forward to sessions that foster connections with industry leaders and provide actionable strategies for business development, customer service and expanding into new markets. Our new Saturday morning “Game Changer” general sessions are designed to recharge your perspective with insights into industry trends and opportunities that you can immediately apply to your business.
Manufacturers will find more opportunities to reconnect with decision-makers through our redesigned expo hall experience. Relevant and engaging learning labs will take place in the expo hall throughout the event. We’ve created new sponsorship opportunities that offer unprecedented engagement with attendees, ensuring your products and services receive the attention they deserve.
Technicians, we have redesigned our educational program based on your feedback. Our expanded pre-conference offerings now include intensive troubleshooting workshops that connect you directly with industry experts through hands-on learning. These sessions have limited capacity to ensure personal attention, so early registration is essential.
We’re excited to welcome back vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals to this year’s event through our VIP scholarship program. This initiative gives VR attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with dealers, manufacturers and the broader NMEDA community. By bringing together all mobility stakeholders, we’re fostering valuable relationships and strengthening the network that supports our industry.
The 2026 conference venue itself adds tremendous value. While much of the country grapples with February frost,
“
The 2026 NMEDA Conference and Expo represents more than an annual gathering; it marks a bold step forward in NMEDA’s evolution.”
you’ll recharge in a resort-style setting ideal for both learning and networking. Take advantage of outdoor networking opportunities, including our Friday morning NMEDA golf outing (limited tee times available), to reconnect with colleagues in meaningful ways.
We have refreshed our Hall of Fame induction and Awards ceremony to create a more impactful celebration of industry excellence. This vibrant event will showcase the achievements and stories of our inductees, delivering an inspiring finale that honors our past and energizes our future.
For those ready to secure their spot, registration is now open at nmedaannualconference.com. Early bird pricing offers significant savings, and new package options make it easy to customize your conference experience. Dealers bringing multiple team members can take advantage of special group rates, making it easier to bring your entire staff for comprehensive training.
“
Together, we’ll reconnect, recharge, and redefine the future of mobility excellence, making this our most impactful gathering yet.”
For dealers, it’s your opportunity to reconnect with industry leaders and strengthen your business strategy. For manufacturers, you’re your platform to showcase the latest innovations in mobility solutions. For technicians, it offers hands-on learning to expand your knowledge. For allied health professionals, it’s your chance to reconnect with mobility specialists while earning CEUs.
Mark your calendars for February 20-22, 2026, and join us in Orlando. Whether you want to expand your technical knowledge, grow your business, showcase new products or enhance your clinical expertise, this conference offers exceptional value for every attendee.
NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS
UNITED STATES
ALABAMA
Griffin Mobility 213 Chestnut Street NW Hartselle, AL 35640 (256) 751-1365
1
High Tech Mobility LLC
3351 Warrior River Rd Hueytown, AL 35023-1304 (205) 491-2109
1, 3
MobilityWorksBirmingham 80 Commerce Dr. Pelham, AL 35124 (205) 426-8261
1, 3
MobilityWorks - Huntsville 2150 Meridian Street North Huntsville, AL 35811 (234) 542-3022
1, 3
Superior Van & MobilityMontgomery 1647 Coosa River Pkwy Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 244-1011
1, 3
Sylacauga Handicapped Inc 40811 US Hwy 280 Sylacauga, AL 35150 (256) 249-3717
1, 2, 3
Team Adaptive Medical Inc - Mobile 1251 Boltons Branch Drive Mobile, AL 36606 (251) 471-1088
1, 3
ARIZONA
A.D.E. Industries, Inc. 3621 S Palo Verde Tucson, AZ 85713 (520) 571-7156
1
United Access - Chandler 1825 E Germann Road Suite 24 Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 999-5939 1, 2, 3
United Access - Goodyear 13765 W Auto Drive Suite 125 Goodyear, AZ 85338 (623) 242-0552 1, 3
United Access - Phoenix 23606 N 19th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85085 (623) 879-0800 1, 3
United Access - Scottsdale 14885 N 83rd Pl., Ste 105 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 941-4800
1
United Access - Tucson 4720 N La Cholla Blvd Suite 150 Tucson, AZ 85705 (520) 293-3596 1, 3
ARKANSAS
MobilityWorks - Bryant 3418 Main St Suite 400 Bryant, AR 72022 (501) 794-3100 1, 3
Superior Van & Mobility 1110 Mathias Dr Ste F Springdale, AR 72762-0710 (479) 521-8433 1, 3
Superior Van & MobilityJonesboro 2421 Sunny Meadow Drive, Ste D Jonesboro, AR 72401 (870) 933-7270 1, 3
Superior Van & MobilityNorth Little Rock 7323 Cock of the Walk St Suite B North Little Rock, AR 72113 (501) 725-9070 1, 3
CALIFORNIA
AERO Mobility 1001 N Weir Canyon Road Anaheim, CA 92807 (714) 973-8600 1, 2, 3
Economy MedicalLifestyle Mobility 2355 Whitman Rd Ste F Concord, CA 94518-2542 (925) 671-4800
1
Gary E. Colle, Inc./dba Goldenboy of San Diego 12130 Dearborn Place Poway, CA 92064 (858) 748-9414 1, 3
MobilityWorks - Chico 7 Three Sevens Lane Chico, CA 95973 (800) 225-7361 1, 3
MobilityWorks - Fresno 120 North Diamond Street Fresno, CA 93701 (559) 268-9394 1, 3
Adaptation Mobilité Plus 414 Blvd St Germain Ouest Rimouski, QC G5L 3N4 (418) 723-9225 1, 3
TVR Technologies Inc. 20 Rue des Metiers Lavaltrie, QC J5T 0H4 (888) 919-2555 1, 3
“Who’s Got It Better Than Us?” “Nobody!”
Transforming Lives Through Adaptive Vehicle Solutions
Christina Duggan Representative at Large 4
In the world of mobility innovation, few industries embody purpose and progress like ours. As former University of Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh famously asks, “Who’s got it better than us?” The answer is simple: nobody. Every time a customer drives away in a modified vehicle, it’s a win for inclusion and independence.
Meet Ryan Hudson-Peralta.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Ryan entered the world without hands and with shortened legs. From the start, his family embraced his differences with unwavering support, treating him no differently than any other child. That nurturing environment instilled in Ryan a deep sense of independence and resilience that shaped his journey.
Determined to live life on his own terms, Ryan found creative and adaptive ways to do everything his peers did. His drive to challenge himself was evident early on, and learning to drive was no exception.
Ryan partnered with Michigan Rehabilitation Services to purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and turned to The Creative Mobility Group for support. After understanding his needs and abilities, we knew the BraunAbility
In this industry, we don’t just build vehicles: we build confidence and opportunity. ” “
Traverse was the perfect fit. Together, we customized a vehicle that empowers Ryan to drive safely, just another way he continues to defy the odds while we continue doing what we love.
What makes this story even more special is that Ryan’s ability to drive was made possible not only by CMG, but also by our valued NMEDA members. His vehicle features reduced-effort steering and an electronic gear shifter from Drive Master, a six-way transfer seat from BraunAbility, and a QLK-170 securement system from Q’Straint. Each partner played a role in bringing Ryan’s dream vehicle to life.
How lucky are we to be a part of Ryan’s story? And it’s just one of so many others that we’re proud to be a part of. Like so many of our customers, we have the privilege of positively impacting their lives by making vehicles accessible for all. So really—who’s got it better than us?
Noooobody!
Each NMEDA partner played a role in bringing Ryan’s dream vehicle to life.” “
INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLES
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 | 3:30–4:30 PM
One of our most-loved sessions is returning for 2026. Join your peers on Saturday for Dealer Roundtables, an energizing space for open, honest, and action-driven conversations.
WHAT ARE ROUNDTABLES? Picture 8 to 12 mobility professionals gathered at a table, diving into real-world challenges, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. Each table has a moderator to guide the flow, but you bring the expertise, the insight, and the spark.
WHAT’S ON THE AGENDA? Timely and relevant topics that matter to your role and your business. Check the conference website for the full list and get ready to pull up a seat.
Discover
THANK YOU! TO OUR CURRENT SPONSORS
& EXHIBITORS
CONTENT THAT CLICKS: MASTERING SOCIAL MEDIA
Jack Borgmeyer – President of Borgmeyer
Nicole Bryson – President of FT Mobility
Brooke Westcott – Account Manager
Harness the power of social media to marketplace. You’ll leave this hands-on create authentic, customer-focused content
TALENT
LEVEL UP LIVE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 | 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 | 9:00–11:00 AM
Discover what’s new and next in the world of automotive mobility! During exhibit hall hours, this small stage comes alive with short, power-packed sessions featuring experts sharing insights on emerging trends, innovations, and practices. These 15–20 minute talks designed to deliver fresh ideas and practical takeaways. It’s the perfect way to stay informed and inspired while on the show floor.
DEALER LEARNING TRACKS
FEBRUARY 21 | 9:00–10:00 AM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 | 10:00–11:00 AM
OBSTACLES, AND INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
and VA are reshaping their partnership to address reimbursements, and communication barriers, and improve outcomes for veterans and mobility professionals.
Clark Hill Public Strategies
Relations and Public Policy Manager, NMEDA of Regulatory Affairs & Product Safety, BraunAbility (Ret.), Veteran Relations Program Manager, Vantage Mobility
YOUR GUIDE TO NEMT: RULES, REWARDS, AND REVENUE
Joel Smith – Program Manager, NEMTAC
Discover the essentials of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), a the vital service that provides rides for individuals who need medical care but not emergency transport. Learn how this regulated industry operates and explore how adding NEMT services can create a new revenue stream for your dealership.
BRIDGING THE GAP: PARTNERING WITH
COMMUNITY INFLUENCERS
Your next best referral might not come from Instagram, but from professionals your clients trust. Reach out and partner with local influencers to turn these relationships into a powerful referral engine, bridging gaps and keeping your business top-of-mind.
PANELISTS
Shawn Carver – General Manager, Mobility Works
Joe DiCola – Community Outreach Manager, Superior Van & Mobility Trista Windows – Senior Director of Driver Rehab Services, DRCE MODERATOR
Russ Newton – General Manager, Sure Grip Hand Controls
(AI) IN ACTION: FOR MOBILITY BUSINESSES
businesses are integrating AI into their operations. This approaches and practical use cases of AI transforming practices that drive results.
Technology Officer, Harmar
Superior Van & Mobility Operations, United Access
Eric Mansfield – President & Chief Operating Officer, MobilityWorks
Mobility isn’t just about vans and lifts anymore. Join us for an updated look at how dealers can tap into the growing demand for home access solutions. We’ll explore the latest trends, data, and practical strategies for meeting consumer needs, both at home and on the go. Discover how expanding your offerings can open new revenue streams and help your clients live more independently. BEYOND THE
PRE CONFERENCE SESSIONS
TECH TRAINING
FEBRUARY 19-20
Ready for Your Technician to Advance to the Next Level? The NMEDA Advanced Technician Summit is a two-day, hands-on training designed for early to mid-career automotive mobility technicians.
Your technician will work directly with leading manufacturers including ATC Mobility, BraunAbility, Mobility Innovations, Q’Straint, Grip, and Vantage Mobility while diving into advanced troubleshooting, installation, and diagnostics. They will collaborate exchange real-world repair strategies, and put their skills to the test in the Technician Challenge.
They will walk away with stronger skills, renewed confidence, and the expertise to bring even greater value to your shop and
ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
FEBRUARY 19-20
Join us for an immersive two-day educational event designed exclusively for clinicians, therapists, driver rehabilitation specialists professionals working in or interested in learning more about the automotive mobility field. This is your opportunity to connect with leading practitioners, explore application of products for diverse client needs, deepen your expertise, and discover the mobility solutions that empower the lives of your clients.
VR VIP FEBRUARY 20-21
Vocational Rehabilitation Program
Since 2020, NMEDA has proudly hosted a unique “conference within a conference” experience designed exclusively for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency professionals. This year’s program once again delivers exceptional education and networking opportunities tailored to this vital group. Don’t miss the chance to connect and engage with your local VR leaders and build lasting partnerships throughout the event.
training experience
Register Today!
Early Bird Pricing Ends January 9th
Q’Straint, Sure with peers, and customers. specialists and connect directly the latest Vocational opportunities partnerships Ian Wyatt – Senior Vice President, Chief Economist, Huntington Commercial Bank
6:15 pm–8:00 pm The Main Event: NMEDA 2026 Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet
Sunday, February 22
7:00 am–11:00 am Registration / Help Desk
8:00 am–9:00 am Closing General Session 9:00 am–11:00 am Exhibit Hall Open 9:00 am–11:00 am Level Up Live 11:00 am–12:00 pm Dealer Open Forum 11:00 am–12:00 pm Manufacturer Open Forum
Rapid changes in supply chains, tariff policy, financing dynamics, and public reimbursement are reshaping the wheelchair‑accessible vehicle market. This session brings practical, data‑driven insight from industry analyst Ian Wyatt, tailored specifically for NMEDA members who need clear, applicable guidance to navigate rising costs, payment uncertainty, and shifting demand. Ian will translate macro trends into concrete actions dealers and manufacturers can use now to protect margins, reduce inventory risk, and identify new revenue streams. February 22, 2026 | 8:00–9:00 am MARKET FORCES & PRACTICAL STRATEGIES: SUPPLY, TARIFFS, FINANCING, AND POLICY FOR DEALERS
Performance meets precision with the QLK. The personal docking system you can trust to be the engine of your securement.
Mobility Way
By Mike Savicki — Afterburner Communications Afterburner Communications
The Doctor Is…Rolling
Following his personal philosophy of “where there is a wheel, there is a way,” Alexander “Sasha” Rabchevsky, Ph.D., is making change happen both in and out of the classroom.
To understand the impact
Alexander “Sasha” Rabchevsky is making on the world of disability, it is best to start by imagining a sliding scale in which the word “advocate” on one end and the word “activist” on the other. While both words are important, and the individuals who work hard to create change across that scale happen are vital to building a more inclusive and equitable world. But it is the activists, those who lead, educate, promote and sometimes sacrifice their own skin and bone to make change happen, who are often the ones on the front lines making change happen.
Sasha has lived on the activist end of that scale for more than 40 years. Originally from Washington, D.C., and born to Russian immigrant parents, Sasha saw the world differently from an early age. As he and his family moved from home to home primarily throughout the mid-Atlantic, he became a “jock of all trades” who cherished sporting life and adventure as much as he did academics. In the classroom, he pursued anything and everything related to science.
Education and learning became a passion and life cornerstone. Sasha graduated from Hampden-Sydney
College in 1988, earned a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Florida in 1995, and subsequently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in neuroimmunology and cellular transplantation techniques from the University of Paris.
His focus throughout it all was spinal cord injury and regenerative and rehabilitative science research.
Why the focus, you might ask? The answer traces back to the summer before his junior year of college. While riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, the driver lost control on a steep and curvy West Virginia road, and Sasha
and the bike tumbled down a ravine. When he awoke from a coma several days later, Sasha learned he had sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury. Doctors told him he was a paraplegic and would never walk again.
From his injury came his new passion. If a room full of doctors could not explain why a spinal cord injury could not be healed and regenerated, he wanted to be the one to find the answer.
“All I did was survive but somewhere along the way, I made it my life’s work
to work towards finding a cure, a solution, and teach those who share my passion, too,” Rabchevsky said.
“People call me inspirational for what I do but I disagree,
we all have in us that desire to make change happen.” “
Getting back behind the wheel was
vital
to his recovery.
“For most of my paralysis life, I drove two-door sports car sedans where I could jump in and pop the chair behind me,” he shared. “It was always two doors. My favorite car was a Monte Carlo SS V8 with overdrive which helped with gas mileage. And before that was a Thunderbird with a supercharger.”
It wasn’t until his friend, the late Paul Erway, introduced him to the world of fully adapted vehicles that Sasha decided to make the change. He purchased a 2018 side-entry
BraunAbility Toyota Sienna minivan and continues to drive it to this day. It was the first time he could enter a vehicle and not have to worry about disassembling and reassembling his chair and he loved it. He says the pros far outweigh the cons, although “it is harder to find parking for sideentry vans than I ever would have imagined.”
His (joking but somewhat serious) solution?
“If people are going to be jerks and take up the needed spaces, and not respect the hashmarks, why not put the spots on the other side of
the parking lot if it means people won’t be taking them illegally,” he said.
Traveling for both work and his involvement with nonprofit organizations such as No Barriers and United 2 Fight Paralysis (U2FP), Sasha often needs rental cars. He prefers driving to flying because it gives him the flexibility and control he cherishes, as opposed to leaving it all up to chance with flights, damaged equipment, and other uncertainties.
But when he does fly and needs to rent a car, he says the mobility industry does not yet offer enough solutions, so he often turns to rental car agencies. On a trip to Michigan, a rental car agency added hand controls to a Tesla at his request. Accustomed to pulling into gas stations to fill up his rental cars, this trip presented a different kind of challenge. He had to worry about finding and sitting at a charging station as opposed to simply pulling in, refueling, and getting back on the road.
Dr. Rabchevsky currently serves as a professor of physiology at the University of Kentucky and as a core faculty member of the Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center (SCOBIRC). It is on the university’s
campus, about a 20-minute drive from his home, where Sasha has dedicated his life as a scientist, researcher, teacher and activist throughout his entire professional career.
When he was first hired in 1997, he thought the job would be temporary. Merit proved otherwise. His “open lab, open life” teaching philosophy has allowed his graduate students to move forward and begin life-changing pursuits of their own.
Through all the physical, academic and societal challenges he has faced, Sasha persists. The ADA is 40 years old, and Sasha has been doing this work even longer. Through grant cycles, academic shifts and even changes in the mobility industry, his passion continues and his drive has remained uninterrupted.
“The future of disability and mobility is to learn from what has already been done, don’t repeat it, and take advantage of new opportunities and technologies,” he said. “Do not shy away from them, and don’t be afraid of doing what’s difficult.”
In a society that needs disability and mobility innovators and change-makers, Dr. Rabchevsky’s four decades in science and technology show just how necessary this work is. Our future depends on it. And on him.
The future of disability and mobility is to learn from what has already been done and take advantage of new opportunities and technologies.” “
Voices from the Committee
Why This Conference Stays With You
Ariel Ifill
NMEDA - Marketing & Communications Manager
As NMEDA prepares for the 2026 Conference and Expo, we’re shining a light on the people shaping the experience behind the scenes. From unforgettable memories to heartfelt advice, members of our Conference Committee and task force share what makes this event unlike any other in our industry.
“A night that will stay with me forever.”
Dawn Lubben, Clock Mobility
For Dawn Lubben, one Conference moment stands above the rest.
Her favorite memory is watching her father, Don Clock, be inducted into the NMEDA Hall of Fame.
“I can still picture him quietly taking off his glasses and wiping away tears,” she said. “It was one of those rare moments where you fully realize how much passion, time and sacrifice went into someone’s entire career. It is a milestone our family will never forget.”
That same sense of community and shared purpose is what keeps Dawn returning year after year. The Conference, she says, has shaped both her business and her personal growth in ways she did not expect.
“When you come here, you’re surrounded by people who invest in your growth, not just their own,” she said. “The relationships I’ve built with fellow mobility dealers, the NMEDA team, the education sessions and even the time spent with exhibitors in the hall have all shaped and supported the direction of our business. There is a shared belief that rising together is better, and that has stayed with me long after every Conference ends.”
She believes anyone within a mobility dealership — owners, office staff, service writers and technicians — would benefit from attending.
Voices from the Committee
“NMEDA Conference is where you can grow faster in three days than you could in months on your own,” she said. “If you choose not to attend, you miss the chance to connect with the people who are shaping where our industry is heading.”
This year will be Dawn’s first Conference without her dad, which gives the event even deeper meaning.
“What I’m most excited about this year is the people,” she said. “The friendships, the support, the hallway conversations, the moments between sessions where you gain real perspective. Those relationships are what make Conference meaningful, and they mean even more this year.”
“Every award banquet reminds me why this industry is special.”
Christopher Woods, Acrisure
For Christopher Woods, no moment captures the spirit of Conference quite like the awards banquet.
“Every time I attend, I see the genuine appreciation from peers and even competitors,” he said. “By the time the Hall of Fame acceptance speech begins, someone is almost always crying. It is powerful to watch someone reflect on their life’s work.”
As for what he is most excited about for 2026:
“The opening evening,” he said. “There is always a buzz around the booths. People catching up, introducing new friends, seeing all the new products. It is a great time.”
And his best advice for attendees?
“Be talkative. During meal breaks, don’t sit with people you know,” he said. “Sit with strangers. I make it my goal at every meal. It is not difficult to find truly amazing people in this industry.”
Her message to first-time attendees is heartfelt and clear:
“Show up open. Ask questions. Introduce yourself. Be curious about people, not just products. Conference becomes exponentially more valuable when you lean into the relationships in the room,” she said. “Some of the biggest leaps I’ve made personally and professionally have come from one hallway conversation, one shared story, one unexpected new connection. My dad always taught me that who you grow with matters. So, take the time to build those relationships here. They will carry you farther than you think.”
The Heart of What Makes Conference Special
What comes through clearly from both Dawn and Christopher is the same message:
The NMEDA Conference is more than an event. It is a community.
It is where careers shift, relationships form, businesses grow and the future of mobility takes shape. Whether it is an emotional Hall of Fame moment, a hallway conversation that changes your perspective or the spark of a new partnership, the impact lasts long after everyone heads home.
And in 2026, that impact will be felt again. Reconnect. Recharge. Redefine Mobility.
See you in Orlando!
Hands-On, Minds-On:
Specialists Explore Clinical Reasoning in Vehicle Modifications at BraunAbility
Susie Touchnisky Allied Health Professional Representative
What happens when classroom learning meets cutting-edge mobility innovation? You get a truly unforgettable workshop experience like “Clinical Reasoning for Complex Vehicle Modifications”, held at the world-renowned BraunAbility headquarters in Winamac, Indiana.
This wasn’t just another lecture or slideshow; it was a hands-on, minds-on deep dive into the essential considerations that make independent community mobility possible. From the moment the specialists arrived, the excitement was palpable. They were surrounded by vans, ramps, lifts, and innovative equipment that they could actually see, touch, and try, turning theoretical concepts into real-world understanding.
For specialists in the field of driver rehabilitation, vehicle modification is more than just picking a ramp van. It’s about clinical reasoning, problem solving, and the ability to match specific client factors and performance skills with the
right combination of ingress, egress, securement, stowage, seating, and access to controls. This workshop delivered that and more in a dynamic, lab-style environment where learners moved seamlessly from concept to application.
Participants toured the BraunAbility manufacturing plant with Cassy Churchill and Jeff Tellez, where they experienced the vehicle conversion process from the ground up. From observing how floor plans are redesigned to seeing how adaptive seating and securement systems are installed, the behind-the-scenes look
“
This was more than just a training; it was a celebration of what happens when passionate professionals, innovative manufacturers, and eager learners come together with one goal: to unlock independence and community mobility for everyone.”
offered new appreciation for the complexity and precision involved in every modification. Being on site, in the heart of innovation, gave participants the confidence to make more informed and impactful recommendations for their clients.
professionals guided participants through best-practice guidelines, evidence-based methods, and licensing regulations to assess fitness to drive and community access for both drivers and passengers.
Throughout the day, expert Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (CDRS) Tammy Phipps, Susie Touchinsky, and Trista Windows led case study and group discussions on real-world challenges —such as helping a new wheelchair user choose between rear-entry versus side-entry vehicles, or determining how to safely stow a large power wheelchair in a compact SUV. These seasoned
And yes, it was fun. Standing next to a fully converted van, peering underneath to see where the fuel tank had been relocated, or exploring how a transfer seat base swivels to aid entry — these hands-on moments made the learning come alive. Participants were engaged, collaborative, and energized as they connected the dots between clinical theory and actual engineering solutions.
Whether navigating the nuances of seating and positioning or learning how to talk a client through their options, participants walked away from the workshop better equipped to handle even the most complex vehicle modification scenarios.
Big thanks to all of our participants who joined us in 2024 & 2025! Learn more about our upcoming June 22 & 23, 2026 session at adaptivemobility.thinkific.com.
The Future of the NMEDA Political Action Committee
Shawn Richmond
NMEDA - Government Relations and Policy Manager
The future of NMEDA and its Political Action Committee (PAC) is focused, ambitious, and more important than ever.
Over the past year, NMEDA has met with more than 30 members of Congress, including both the majority and ranking members of the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees multiple times. These conversations have reinforced the importance of ensuring that veterans receive timely access to safe, reliable, and affordable mobility solutions and that the businesses serving them are supported by fair and up-to-date federal policy.
Building on this progress, NMEDA’s PAC will continue to strengthen its advocacy presence on Capitol Hill. The next phase of our work will target strategic members of Congress from both parties who influence veterans’ programs, transportation policy, and small business regulation.
Our goal is to expand our outreach, deepen relationships, and position NMEDA as the trusted voice for the mobility industry and the veterans who rely on it.” “
A top priority remains bringing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) Schedule up to date. Current reimbursement levels are based on outdated data and no longer reflect the real cost of providing mobility equipment and services. Through direct engagement with Congress and the VA, NMEDA is working to secure updates that ensure the program keeps pace with inflation and industry pricing, allowing our members to continue delivering high-quality solutions for veterans.
Beyond the AAE schedule, NMEDA is also pursuing legislative solutions that make working with the VA more efficient for both providers and veterans. This includes efforts to introduce new legislation that reduces administrative barriers, as well as urging the VA to implement previously passed laws that have yet to be fully implemented.
Ensuring that these policies move from paper to action will improve outcomes for veterans and strengthen the entire adaptive mobility ecosystem.” “
NMEDA’s PAC, with the help of our members, is central to advancing these goals. By continuing to build bipartisan support, expand our relationships, and educate lawmakers on the realities facing the mobility industry, we are creating a stronger foundation for long-term success. The work ahead is significant, but
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with continued engagement and member support, NMEDA’s PAC is well-positioned to deliver meaningful progress for veterans, providers, and the communities they serve.”
The TREAD Act (Update)
Harry Baergen, CET
NMEDA CRP Coordinator
Harry Baergen was previously the Regulation Enforcement Officer for Transport Canada. Currently, he acts as the Compliance Review Program (CRP) Coordinator for NMEDA.
If you have any questions about the contents of this article, or about the NMEDA CRP, contact Harry Baergen at 778.888.2210.
In 2019, the Compliance Review Program (CRP) published an article in the Circuit Breaker (now NMEDA News) explaining the TREAD Act. Considering recent corporate mergers and the questions that have surfaced about members’ obligations under the TREAD Act, it seems to warrant a reprint with updated information. The following is a synopsis of the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act, incorporated into the Vehicle Safety Act (49 U.S.C. Chapter 301), with emphasis on those parts that could apply to NMEDA members.
By way of background, the TREAD Act was urgently passed through the United States Congress in only 18 hours and enacted on November 01, 2000. This resulted in one of the largest tire recalls in U.S. history, following hundreds of fatalities, numerous injuries, and thousands of complaints worldwide. Most of the incidents involved rollovers of narrow-track, short wheelbase, Ford Explorers caused by tread belt separation of under-inflated Firestone tires.
In the U.S., accidents, injuries and fatalities began in 1996 when the state of Arizona reported to Firestone that the P235/75R 15 ATX tire installed on the Ford Explorer and other related vehicles was separating under high temperatures. Firestone investigated and replaced the tires with upgraded ones. Later, Firestone internal documents showed a rise in injury claims on the ATX, ATX II and Wilderness AT as early as 1997. By 1998, Ford, Firestone, and Bridgestone (which had purchased Firestone in 1988) were all fully aware of the extent of the problem. However, with over a hundred years of corporate relationship between Ford and Firestone, they were able to keep it under wraps until 2000 when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finally came to grips with the situation and promulgated the TREAD Act. This led to Ford and Firestone recalling at least 23 million tires and settling numerous claims amounting to well over $1 billion. Ford immediately redesigned the Explorer by lowering the centre of gravity, widening the track, installing independent rear suspension, adding tire pressure monitoring systems and later ABS and ESC. However, ostracized Firestone just barely survived and continues to carry the stigma to this day.
The TREAD Act includes enhanced tire markings and tire placard labelling, enhanced owner manual information, child seat testing, rollover awareness testing, tire endurance and resistance testing, compensation for costs before and after a recall, prohibition of sales subject to a recall, foreign vehicles reporting, acceleration of recall remedies and the requirement for tire pressure monitoring systems (FMVSS 138, September 01, 2007). Violations can result in a maximum civil penalty of $15 million or criminal penalty of 15 years in prison.
Most important, based on the years of silence from Ford and Firestone silence while fatalities occurred,
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at the heart of the TREAD Act is the requirement for early warning reporting to NHTSA.
This can be found at 49 CFR Part 579.27. It includes the obligation to report any safety-related warranty claims, defects or incidents causing fatality, injury or property damage, insurance claims, consumer complaints and field reports received from dealers, fleet operators, authorized service centers, employees and others. This applies to vehicles sold during the calendar year of the reporting period and nine years prior (four years for equipment) including models no longer in production. In addition, high volume vehicle manufacturers and all tire and child restraint manufacturers must report volume production statistics, so NHTSA can compute the number of claims per unit. High volume manufacturers may also be required to report quarterly or periodically to NHTSA, but if a manufacturer does not receive a claim or notice of death it need not report that fact to NHTSA.
In the final rule, manufacturers of 500 or more vehicles or equipment of a category (later amended to 5,000 or more vehicles or equipment of a category) are subject to the foregoing reporting requirements, but manufacturers of less than 500 vehicles or equipment of a category (later amended to less than 5,000 vehicles or equipment of a category) are only required to report any claim or defect related incident involving a fatality. This includes such an incident in Canada or on a similar vehicle in a foreign
country. The amended rule excludes from most of the early warning reporting requirements any manufacturer that manufactures for sale, offers for sale, imports, or sells, in the United States, fewer than 5000 vehicles, tires, child seat systems or equipment per year.
This reporting exclusion will apply to most NMEDA manufacturers of multistage vehicles and alterers, “
since the vast majority of them manufacture or sell fewer than 5000 vehicles of a category annually. There are four categories: light vehicles, medium-heavy vehicles and all buses, trailers, and all motorcycles. Most adaptive vehicles manufactured or altered by NMEDA members and most adaptive equipment manufactured by NMEDA members would fall under the light vehicle category. Therefore, all vehicles or equipment manufactured by an adaptive vehicle company could be counted in determining whether it is a high or low-volume company.
The NHTSA has confirmed with NMEDA that “alterers” of adaptive vehicles definitely fall under the term “manufacturer” in the TREAD Act, although the term “alterer” is not specifically mentioned in the final rule except in the preamble. It should also be noted here that all manufacturers, high and low volume, are still required to report any defect or recall campaigns as usual.
Companies that are acquiring other companies may have to consider adding administrative costs to comply with the more complex reporting requirements that apply to high-volume manufacturers. However, manufacturers of equipment, such as seats, seat bases and hand controls, that are more likely to fall into the high volume more than 5000 units per year group, are only required to report incidents relating to a fatality, the same as small volume vehicle manufacturers. Equipment manufacturers may also be liable if the component is found defective after it has been installed in a vehicle.
Canada, on the other hand, as hard as it might try, could not produce a representative failure of the Firestone tires
INDUSTRY ADVISOR (Continued)
at the time of the U.S. failures and had received only a few inconsequential complaints. Therefore, Canada could not justify reinforcing its recall procedures with the likes of the U.S TREAD Act. Although Canada did follow some of the non-recall stipulations of the TREAD Act, it was not until recently, almost two decades later, that Canada strengthened its recall (notice of defect) requirements to align more with the NHTSA and some parts of the TREAD Act. Some recent changes in Canada are the requirement for remedy compensation and the obligation for regulatory (non-compliance) recalls. Albeit, in the past, Canada has often benefited from U.S. recalls that spill over into Canada. For example, Ford and Firestone recalled tires in Canada, along with the rest of the world, even though Canada had no failures. Many Canadians benefited from getting a free set of tires. It should also be noted that the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act only has jurisdiction over new vehicles, tires and child restraints. It does not cover equipment and replacement parts, as the U.S.
The TREAD Act is an example of the consequences that can result from withholding pertinent information from
customers and resisting recalls. A recall may have some up-front costs, but can benefit profits and avoid liability in the long run. It is a way of directly contacting the customer, demonstrating care and professionalism. The public is used to receiving recall notices from all types of companies, including the most high-end automobile companies such as Rolls-Royce. Although it should be noted here that, according to the NHTSA recall report, which CRP monitors, NMEDA members are reasonably diligent in conducting recalls, including safety recalls.
Information about the TREAD Act or other recall questions can currently be obtained by e-mailing the NHTSA Office of Defect Information (ODI) Early Warning Requirements (EWR) at odi.ewr@dot.gov. This e-mail address will lead to the ODI’s new EWR portal for manufacturers. This new portal will serve as the central site where manufacturers will submit field reports, responses to death and injury report inquiries (DIs), reactions to comprehensive inquiries (CIs), aggregated data, including production, death and injury claims, warranty claims, and annual reports.
This new portal is intended to standardize the processes by which manufacturers submit information required by the TREAD Act. The new EWR Portal allows manufacturers to:
1. Upload completed files directly to the Trends Analysis Division (TAD) of ODI via a secure web portal, in XML format
2. Manage historical submissions,
3. View the status of submissions (accepted, rejected, or in process),
4. Respond directly to DIs and CIs,
5. Communicate with NHTSA regarding ongoing inquiries, investigations, and compliance with TREAD/EWR requirements.
The help desk is available at mfrewrhelpdesk@dot.gov. Also, for further information about the TREAD Act, there are hundreds of responses to letters with questions about the TREAD Act on the NHTSA interpretation website.
QAP UPDATES
Chuck Hardy
NMEDA Director of Quality & Compliance
Hello, my fellow QAP enthusiasts! Welcome to another edition of QAP Straight Talk, where I get to share all things QAP. And we’re going to get to that, but first I wanted to send my appreciation to our former CEO, Dave Hubbard, who recently passed away.
Dave was a dedicated servant to NMEDA. Dave presided over many milestones in NMEDA’s history and helped shape NMEDA into what it is today. Dave was also the one who took a chance on me and hired me in 2013. Prior to joining NMEDA, I had little experience with the automotive industry, wheelchair vehicles, or associations. But I did have a strong background in quality assurance and quality systems and that’s what NMEDA was looking for to help overhaul the QAP. I am thankful Dave saw the potential I had and brought me on. I spent a lot of time in Dave’s office learning about our industry and asking a lot of questions. Dave was patient with me, was a mentor to me, and was fundamental to helping me with the role I have today.
I will be eternally grateful to Dave for all he has done for me, and for NMEDA. “
Commercial WAVs
Now for a quick update on our newest rule change regarding commercial WAVs. We started entering all commercial WAVs in QAPx and DOCUTRACK on July 1. Things are going well, but I do not believe we are seeing all the commercial jobs entered in the system yet. Since July, we have had about 350 commercial jobs entered across all dealers, and I think that number is low. I ask you, if you are a dealer, to assure all commercial jobs are being entered into the system or to let me know what questions you have about commercial job QAP requirements. I know this is a new requirement, and it may take time to get fully acclimated. If you need clarification, reach out at any time. Let’s get all jobs in!
NEMT
What do you know about NEMT? I wanted to tell you a little about my visit to the NEMTAC conference in Dallas. Do you all know what NEMTAC is? It’s
QAP STRAIGHT TALK
the accreditation commission for NEMT and if that is a new term for you, NEMT is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. This is a huge opportunity for NMEDA members. Think of commercial transport vehicles used for Medicare recipients. Medicare plays a primary role in the NEMT arena as they are the ones funding a vast majority of the trips. And guess what? NMEDA members can tap into this market. Some already have. I visited with several of our members exhibiting at the show.
QAPx Updates
The NEMT space is still maturing, and NEMTAC is leading the way with standards development. I suspect in the future we may hear more about NEMT vehicle compliance requirements. I am hopeful NMEDA QAP dealers can be seen as a resource for the NEMT industry. I would love to see a requirement for NEMT WAVs to be procured through the QAP dealer network, with NMEDA CRP review, but that will be a decision NEMTAC will have to make. If you are not already in the commercial or NEMT market, and if you are looking for a new revenue stream, I would encourage you to look at NEMT. There is gold to be mined there for our members.
I want to let you all know we have been diligently working on some important QAPx updates that are going to make job entry more efficient. One big change is in the final inspection section. Currently, when you enter a job, you need to select and deselect all the inspection points for the type of equipment or work you complete. The section in QAPx today mimics the old 5-page paper form.
We are working on transforming the inspection section so all you will need to do is check off the inspections that were completed. The inspection points will populate automatically based on the equipment you installed, which means you will no longer have to mark extra steps as not applicable. Simply check off the inspections once they are finished. We hope to have this update available by the end of the year and will notify everyone when it goes live.
Calibration Updates
We also have a few calibration updates. First, there’s a new company offering tool calibrations: TMI Calibrations (tmicalibration.com), which has 11 locations across central and eastern states. If you’re looking for a new calibration company, check them out.
Another calibration update involves the four-corner scales. I am still working on a solution that would allow ‘per-use’ scale
Model Year Updates
calibrations and that could mean you wouldn’t have to calibrate as frequently. With a ‘per-use’ calibration policy, you would count each time to use the scales and then there would be a set point that you calibrate at. These types of calibration policies are common, but the challenge has been defining the right interval, as the scale manufacturer has not been able to provide a recommendation we can use. I am confident, however, that I will be able to come up with something we can use. I hope to have a proposal for QAP Committee by the end of the year.
I am starting to see 2026 model year (MY) conversion updates coming through. If you’re selling a conversion and don’t see the updated model year on the Safety Review Posting page, contact the conversion manufacturer so they can reach out to us with the details needed to make the update.
Well, that’s about all for this edition. Where has this year gone? We are already getting near the end of 2025, and it seems like we just started. Or maybe it’s just me. However it has been for you, I hope you’re having a splendid year and thank you for all you do to move life forward for the person in the chair. Until next time.
FINDINGS
TOP 5 AUDIT FINDINGS
JULY 2024 - JUNE 2025
Manufacturer Training Certificate Missing
Final Inspection Documentation Incomplete
QAP Contact Training Incomplete/Expired
Tool Calibration Missing/Not Uploaded
Pre-Installation Inspection Evidence Missing
TOTAL QAP DEALERS IN GOOD STANDING
QUARTERLY: JUNE 2024 - JUNE 2025
NEW QAP APPLICATIONS & ACCREDITATIONS
QUARTERLY: JUNE 2024 - JUNE 2025
Dealers with No Audit Findings
Adaptation Mobilité Plus - Rimouski, QC
Eureka Solutions - Longueuil, QC
Eureka Solutions - Sherbrooke, QC
Eureka Solutions - St-Lambert de Lauzon, QC
MobilityWorks - Woodinville, WA
Silver Cross Automotive - Maple Ridge, ON
- Winnipeg, MB
Newly Accredited Dealers
NMEDA ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS
ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
ARIZONA
Jennifer Nordine Driving to Independence LLC
1414 W. Broadway Rd #218 Tempe, AZ 85282 (480) 449-3331
CALIFORNIA
Sam Abboushi Dynamic Repair Solutions 23615 El Toro Rd X287 Lake Forest, CA 92630 (714) 988-6600
Vincent Alarcon
Vincent Alarcon Physical Therapist PC 2230 W Sunnyside Ave Ste 1 Visalia, CA 93277 (559) 713-6461
Lula Capuchino Capuchino Therapy Group 3601 Marconi Ave. Sacramento, CA 95821 (916) 481-1300
Melanie Henry Driver Cognitive Assessment Center, LLC 4450 Black Ave Suite D Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 249-5947
Henning Mortensen
Bond Driving School 3333 Balmoral Dr Sacramento, CA 95821 (916) 485-5779
COLORADO
Sarah Davidson
Craig Hospital
3425 S. Clarkson St. Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8117
Barry Doyle
Craig Hospital
3425 S. Clarkson St. Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8218
Kaitlin Finch
Family Health West Hospital
624 Eisenhauer St. Grand Junction, CO 81505 (614) 738-2139
Tamatha Gallegos
Craig Hospital
3425 S. Clarkson St. Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8116
Natalie Uyeno
Craig Hospital
3425 S. Clarkson St. Englewood, CO 80113-2811 (303) 789-8218
CONNECTICUT
Joan Cramer
Therapeutic Driving with Occupational Therapy, LLC. 888 Silver Ln East Hartford, CT 06118 (860) 631-4286
Q’Straint/Sure-Lok 4031 NE 12th Terrace Oakland Park, FL 33334 (954) 986-6665
Royale Mobility LLC 100 Newark Street Haverhill, MA 01832 (978) 374-4530
Stellantis c/o EWI Worldwide 1000 Chrysler Drive Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (800) 255-9877
Sure Grip Hand Controls 4850 Route 102 Upper Kingsclear, NB E3E 1P8 (506) 363-5289
Tempe Mobility 7975 S. Autoplex Loop Tempe, AZ 85284 (480) 598-2383
TMN
58 Hachermesh St. Haifa, Israel 31000 073-2229222-200
Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc
6565 Headquarters Drive Plano, TX 75024 (469) 292-4649
Twining Consulting, Inc. 18071 Mount Washington St. Unit A Fountain Valley, CA 927086118 (562) 272-7231
Vantage Mobility 5202 S. 28th Place Phoenix, AZ 85040 (800) 348-8267
DATES TO REMEMBER
This calendar of upcoming events is provided as a service to NMEDA members. NMEDA NEWS cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Please verify dates and locations with the organizations listed.
2026 NMEDA Conference & Expo
February 20-22, 2026, Orlando, FL
NMEDA Pre-Conference Sessions for Allied Health Professionals
February 19-20, 2026
NMEDA Manufacturers Advanced Technician Summit
February 19-20, 2026
NMEDA Board of Directors Meetings
Next Meeting: January, 15, 2026 at 11 a.m. Eastern
February 20, 2026, at NMEDA Conference & Expo
Monthly, on the 3rd Thursday of Each Month
NMEDA Virtual Town Hall
Check your email in the upcoming weeks for 2026 Virtual Town Hall Schedule
