March 2016 News
I recently returned from the Passenger Terminal Expo in Cologne, Germany. As I walked the show floor, I felt for the tirst time that the industry is starting to take notice of Open Doors Organization. Just by attending these types of events every year, we create awareness in aviation. Few people in the industry have disabilities, so I am normally the one who sticks out. Now that many vendors know and recognize me, they seem more open to understanding what accessibility is all about. One of the biggest obstacles remains the language. During the full-day session on travelers with disabilities, I kept hearing the words “impairment” and “handicap.” Even a major company that conducts courses on accessibility is training people that “impairment” is okay. It’s not. I think people need to look up the definition of impairment. So this month I challenge you to “Google” the word “impairment,” read the definition and then forget the word forever.
Eric Lipp, Executive Director
Open Doors Organization
ODO-ACI Workshop at SFO
The first in a series of workshops from Open Doors Organization for Airports Council International (ACI) is set for May 16-18 at San Francisco International Airport. Accommodating Passengers with Disabilities, taught by Eric Lipp and Laurel Van Horn, will provide an introduction to US disability rights legislation, architectural accessibility standards, adaptive information technology and how to appropriately accommodate a wide range of customers with disabilities and older travelers. The interactive, 3-day training for aviation managers, planners and access coordinators will conclude with a walking tour of the airport that focuses on accessible design and technology. Details and registration
2016 CRO Refresh Online
The 2016 ODO Complaints Resolution Official (CRO) Refresh Webinar is now open for registration at ODO Academy. This year’s CRO Refresher includes findings from ODO’s 2015 Travel Market Study, updates from the DOT and FAA, a discussion of common complaints, a review of key sections of Part 382 and a section on accommodating older adults. The guest speaker for 2016 is ODO Trainer and Paralympian Candace Cable, sharing her perspective as a frequent flyer who uses a wheelchair. The training includes a final assessment. Register now!.
ODO Speaks at CSUN
ODO Technology Consultant Pat Pound and Program Director Katy Rosseland (shown above) represented Open Doors Organization at the 31st Annual International Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference (aka CSUN), held March 21-26 in San Diego. Their presentation on the 2015 ODO Market Study drew a good crowd and lots of questions on the findings with regard to use of the Internet and mobile devices. ODO attends CSUN annually to keep up with the latest developments in inclusive technology.
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CRO Training
Dates/Locations
May 5-6: ORD
June 16-17: JFK
June 22-23: LAX
For details/registration, call 773.388.8839 or email Katy Rosseland.
For CRO Refresh Training, visit ODO Academy or email Eddie Ragauskas. |
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