Let's talk about how the ITKAN tech program for professionals with disability is celebrating 15 years of service to the Chicago community!

ITKAN Founder Pat Maher and Brian Chorba will be our guests on this special bonus episode of Talk About Your Community. The Information Technology Knowledge Abilities Network has helped many people over the years. By tuning in, you'll learn about what has kept this community engaging and helpful for all of these years. We also discuss Virbela’s Open VR Campus.

Show Notes

2:29: Pat starts with introducing both himself and the purpose of SPR, bringing individuals with disabilities into the tech space. As the director of civic engagement, his role encompasses many research initiatives. He also speaks on ITKAN’s initiatives, as well. Brian also introduces himself; stating he’s been with the company for 10 years. He’s also a marketing analyst and Salesforce administrator for SPR.

10:45: Pat covers the journey and choice of platform for the 15th anniversary of SPR. They chose to use Virbela, an online virtual space.  Approaching 2022, they began creating unifying themes for the year around which they could build topics, speakers, panels. This year’s theme is transformation, thus transforming ITKAN to a VR world. Pat speaks to Virbela’s consciousness in diversity and equity inclusion.

19:50: In organizing Microsoft Teams meetups, Todd asks about what accommodations were needed to make this an inclusive environment. Brian speaks to text features as a necessity. ASL can be available if needed, as well as speech to text/transcription services. Virbela has been transparent in that they’re early in applying features in disability.

32:20: Brian speaks on the specifics of the event. The celebration will be held on Virbela, in an area called the speakeasy is like a large party room. Individuals will have avatars that can perform different dance moves and more!

35:29: Morgan’s question: Are there certain features that you think should be standard practice for use for all companies, regardless of what disabilities are represented on staff, in order to create a culture of inclusivity?

Pat mentions ADA should be standard/bar for VR application. Brian chimes in with chat function and text to speech are two key features.

42:47: In closing up, Brian addresses how anyone can go about getting involved with ITKAN, including heading to https://itkan.wordpress.com.