Board
Kyle Beasley – 3D Designer and Tinker
Joe Goode – Accessibility and Technology Specialist
Joe Goode is an accomplished accessibility and technology specialist with extensive expertise in adaptive technology instruction, audio editing, and computer systems. With over two decades of experience, Joe has consistently demonstrated a commitment to empowering blind and visually impaired individuals through innovative training and technology solutions. His broad skill set spans assistive technology, audio production, and leadership roles in the blindness community.
Expertise and Focus Areas
Joe specializes in:
Adaptive Technology Instruction: Proficient in teaching the use of screen readers, screen magnifiers, and adaptive hardware/software, including JAWS, VoiceOver, and TalkBack.
Audio Production and Editing: Skilled in audio tools such as GoldWave, Reaper, and Amadeus Pro, with experience in creating professional-grade audio content.
Technology Platforms: Fluent in Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and DOS, as well as advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and accessibility tools.
Assistive Technology Assessment: Experienced in evaluating individual needs and recommending adaptive tools to support employment and independence.
Professional Achievements
Joe has worked in diverse roles that highlight his dedication to technology and accessibility:
Delivered adaptive technology training to blind individuals of all ages at organizations such as SAAVI Services for the Blind and the Iowa Department for the Blind.
Assessed client needs and recommended tailored assistive technology solutions for employment, education, and daily living.
Supported technology integration in educational and workplace environments, collaborating with counselors and teams to track progress.
Led the management of audio production and streaming services for organizations such as the Audio Information Network of Colorado, ensuring seamless and accessible content delivery.
Provided leadership in accessibility innovation, managing projects, and contributing to technology seminars and retreats that advance adaptive solutions for the blind community.
Leadership in the Blindness Community
Joe has been an active leader in the blindness community for over two decades, serving in key roles within the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). His contributions include:
State and Local Leadership: As a State Board Member and Second Vice President of the NFB Phoenix Chapter, Joe has helped organize events, fundraisers, and conventions to advocate for blind individuals.
Technology Advocacy: As Technology Committee Chair, Joe has spearheaded educational seminars that bridge gaps between mainstream and adaptive technology, fostering innovation and awareness.
Event Management: He has led sound and logistics teams for state conventions, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for participants.
Student Advocacy: During his tenure as President of the Colorado Association of Blind Students, Joe supported blind students through mentorship, fundraising, and public education initiatives.
Education
Joe’s educational background reflects a strong foundation in computer science and adaptive technology:
Arapahoe Community College: Studied Computer Information Systems and Networking, building skills in system management and technical problem-solving.
Metro State College of Denver: Focused on Computer Science, gaining expertise in programming and software development.
Mesa State College: Expanded his knowledge of computing, particularly in adaptive systems.
Pikes Peak Community College: Acquired foundational skills in word processing and computing using WordPerfect.
Colorado Center for the Blind: Completed a 9-month independence training program, mastering adaptive tools and techniques for self-sufficiency as a blind individual.
This diverse educational journey has equipped Joe with the technical expertise and practical skills necessary to lead innovative projects, mentor others, and advance accessibility in education and technology.
Key Competencies
Proficiency in Assistive Technology Tools: Expert in screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver), screen magnifiers, and other adaptive devices.
Advanced Audio Editing and Production: Skilled in GoldWave, Reaper, Amadeus Pro, and Station Playlist for professional audio content creation.
Technical Expertise: Fluent in multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, DOS) and mobile platforms (iOS, Android).
Comprehensive Training Skills: Experienced in designing and delivering customized training programs for individuals and groups in adaptive technology and computer skills.
Leadership in Accessibility: Proven ability to lead seminars, conventions, and technology committees focused on advancing accessibility and inclusion.
Effective Communication and Advocacy: Skilled in working with vocational counselors, writing progress reports, and advocating for adaptive technology solutions.
Vision for Accessibility and Technology
Joe’s passion lies in leveraging technology to create opportunities for blind individuals, enabling them to achieve independence and success. Through his experience in training, leadership, and advocacy, Joe continues to inspire others while advancing accessibility in education, employment, and daily living.
Zach Mann – Accessibility and Training Specialist
Zach Mann is a dedicated Accessibility and Training Specialist with extensive experience in accessibility testing, assistive technology instruction, and technical support. With a strong focus on improving digital inclusion, Zach combines technical expertise with a passion for training to ensure products and services are accessible to all users, including individuals with disabilities.
Expertise and Focus Areas
- Accessibility Testing: Skilled in performing detailed manual and automated accessibility testing for compliance with WCAG 2.0, Section 508, and other accessibility standards. Experienced in identifying issues, assessing defect severity, and providing actionable remediation recommendations.
- Assistive Technology Expertise: Proficient in screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, TalkBack), braille displays, OCR packages, and other adaptive tools on a variety of platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
- Training and Instruction: Proven ability to design and deliver customized training for diverse audiences, helping individuals and organizations adopt assistive technologies and implement accessibility best practices.
- Technical Proficiency: Expertise in operating systems (Windows, Mac OS, Chrome OS, Linux, iOS, Android) and software applications, including Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Apple iWork Suite.
Professional Achievements
- Accessibility Trusted Tester at Google: Conducts rigorous testing of Google’s products and services to ensure compliance with accessibility standards, providing detailed bug reports and usability recommendations.
- Adaptive Technology Trainer at ATR: Delivered training sessions and product demonstrations for assistive technologies, enabling clients to effectively utilize adaptive tools in educational and workplace settings.
- Volunteer Technology Instructor: Taught assistive technology to K-12 students and adults, focusing on individual needs to improve their proficiency with screen readers, braille displays, and other accessibility tools.
Training Philosophy
Zach is passionate about creating training programs that are practical, engaging, and accessible. He focuses on tailoring instruction to the unique needs of participants, from beginners to advanced users, ensuring that they gain confidence and skills to use assistive technologies effectively. His ability to demystify complex tools and standards empowers organizations to build accessible products and environments.
Vision for Accessibility Testing and Training
Zach’s mission is to bridge the gap between accessibility compliance and usability by providing comprehensive testing services and actionable feedback. Through expert training programs, he equips teams with the knowledge and tools to design, develop, and test for inclusivity, creating products that are not only compliant but also truly user-friendly.
Karly Prinds – Accessibility and Independent Living Specialist
Karly Prinds is a dynamic leader and educator with over a decade of experience teaching blind individuals the skills needed for independence and confidence. With a passion for empowering others, Karly has built a career focused on adaptive skills training, program development, and team leadership. Her expertise spans designing life-changing curriculums, managing innovative programs, and leading collaborative teams to enhance services for blind individuals.
Expertise and Focus Areas
Karly specializes in:
Adaptive Skills Training: Teaching home management, travel, and life skills to help blind individuals live independently and confidently.
Program Leadership and Development: Designing and implementing programs that foster independence, confidence, and advocacy skills for blind individuals.
Team Leadership: Mentoring and managing diverse teams to deliver high-quality services, training new staff, and fostering collaboration across departments.
Strategic Planning and Communication: Developing strategies to increase enrollment, improve organizational communication, and streamline processes to maximize impact.
Professional Achievements
Karly has held key roles in accessibility-focused organizations where she has:
Designed and implemented innovative programs to teach essential life and adaptive skills to blind individuals.
Provided personalized training to help clients gain confidence and independence in areas such as home management, budgeting, cooking, and travel.
Managed and mentored teams of instructors and staff, overseeing program operations, budgets, and student housing.
Led committees and collaborative initiatives to improve agency communications, organize community outreach, and drive enrollment growth.
Developed and delivered training curriculums tailored to individual needs, ensuring participants achieve their goals and maximize their potential.
Leadership in Accessibility and Education
Karly has demonstrated her leadership and commitment to the blindness community through her work and professional affiliations:
Committee Leadership: Chaired the Food Bank Committee and the Communications Committee, organizing initiatives to improve agency operations and community support.
Program Collaboration: Contributed to Independent Living Integration Planning to execute impactful training programs for blind individuals.
Staff Development: Oversees new staff training and continuing education to maintain high standards of service delivery.
Education
Karly’s academic foundation in business administration has equipped her with the skills to manage programs and lead teams effectively:
Bachelor of Business Administration and Management
Washburn University, Topeka, KS (2006)Focused on marketing, business law, and strategic decision-making as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board.
Key Competencies
Adaptive Skills Instruction: Expert in teaching life skills, travel, and home management using the structured discovery model.
Program Management: Skilled in budgeting, curriculum design, and team mentoring to ensure impactful training programs.
Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to lead cross-departmental initiatives, streamline communications, and implement strategic plans.
Technical Proficiency: Experienced in Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Zoom, and Slack, with a typing speed of 85–90 WPM.
Advocacy and Empowerment: Passionate about mentoring students and staff to foster confidence and independence in the blindness community.
Vision for Accessibility and Inclusion
Karly is dedicated to creating programs and opportunities that empower blind individuals to achieve independence and lead fulfilling lives. Her commitment to fostering confidence, self-advocacy, and community collaboration continues to inspire those she mentors and leads.
Dishon Spears – Accessibility and Rehabilitation Specialist
Dishon Spears is a dedicated accessibility and rehabilitation specialist with over a decade of experience in empowering blind individuals to live independently and confidently. With a strong background in adaptive skills training, assistive technology, and program management, Dishon has made a lasting impact through his work at the Colorado Center for the Blind and other organizations. His expertise spans rehabilitation training, home management, and community advocacy, combined with a commitment to advancing opportunities for the blind community.
Expertise and Focus Areas
Rehabilitation Training: Teaching adaptive skills like Braille literacy, assistive technology, and orientation and mobility to blind individuals, especially seniors.
Program Management: Designing and implementing tailored rehabilitation plans and managing residential living environments for blind clients.
Advocacy and Accessibility: Ensuring accessibility standards are met in public services and advocating for the rights of blind individuals.
Leadership and Collaboration: Leading initiatives and committees to improve accessibility and support for the blind community.
Professional Achievements
Dishon’s career highlights include:
Older Blind Specialist: Currently provides comprehensive rehabilitation training to seniors at the Colorado Center for the Blind, enabling them to regain independence through personalized assessments and adaptive skills instruction.
Home Management Instructor: Taught daily living and organizational skills to blind individuals, revising lesson plans to meet diverse needs and tracking student progress to ensure success.
Residential Manager: Managed residential facilities for blind clients, ensuring accessibility and safety while mentoring clients in independent living skills.
Community Advocate: Played a key role on the RFP Committee for Colorado Telephone Relay Service, ensuring proposals met accessibility standards, and worked as a compliance contractor to uphold disability rights in public transportation.
Entrepreneurial Leadership: Successfully managed operations at The Retreat Canteen, overseeing hiring, inventory, and day-to-day activities.
Leadership in the Blindness Community
Dishon is a prominent leader within the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and broader accessibility initiatives:
Blind Parents Vice President (2016–Present): Provides mentorship and advocacy for blind parents through leadership within the NFB.
Howard Fund Board Member (2024): Serves on the board overseeing funding for initiatives benefiting the blind community.
RTD Access-a-Ride Paratransit Advisory Committee (2014): Worked as an ex officio member to enhance accessibility for public transportation users with disabilities.
Scholarship Recipient: Honored with multiple NFB scholarships, including the Kaitlyn Brady Scholarship, Colorado State NFB Scholarships, and National NFB Scholarships in 2024.
Education
Dishon has pursued academic excellence in business administration and technology, focusing on applying his skills to nonprofit and accessibility initiatives:
Bachelor’s Degree (Expected July 2025): Business Administration/Non-Profit Management, Southern New Hampshire University
Associate’s Degree: Business, Community College of Denver (2005)
Coursework: Computer Technology, University of New Orleans (1996)
Key Competencies
Expertise in Adaptive Skills Training: Skilled in teaching orientation and mobility, Braille literacy, and assistive technology.
Program Design and Implementation: Proficient in developing rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs and goals.
Accessibility Advocacy: Experienced in evaluating accessibility standards and advocating for rights and services for blind individuals.
Leadership and Collaboration: Strong track record of leading committees, managing teams, and collaborating on accessibility initiatives.
Entrepreneurial and Administrative Skills: Adept in managing operations, supervising teams, and ensuring organizational efficiency.
Vision for Accessibility and Inclusion
Dishon is passionate about fostering independence and equality for blind individuals by leveraging his expertise in rehabilitation training, advocacy, and community engagement. Through his leadership roles and hands-on experience, he strives to create a more inclusive world where accessibility is a foundation for success.