Pre-Conference Sessions for Allied Health Professionals

Advance Your Practice. Expand Your Network. Redefine Mobility.

Join us for an immersive two-day educational event designed exclusively for clinicians, therapists, driver rehabilitation specialists and professionals working in or interested in learning more about the automotive mobility field. This is your opportunity to connect directly with leading practitioners, explore application of products for diverse client needs, deepen your expertise, and discover the latest mobility solutions that empower the lives of your clients.

Event Details

Dates:
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, February 20, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Who Should Attend:

  • Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Rehabilitation Professionals
  • Driver rehabilitation specialists and professionals
  • Clinicians and healthcare professionals involved in supporting clients with automotive mobility needs

Why Attend?

  • Engage with your peers and industry leaders
  • Deepen your understanding of the latest in automotive mobility technology, adaptive driving equipment and industry standards
  • Gain practical insights and best practices for your clients
  • Expand your network and collaborate with industry professionals
  • Earn continuing education credits (approval pending)

Thursday
February 19, 2026

  • 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.

    Vehicle Modifications: Seating, Access, and Mobility Solutions

    Presenters:

    • Tammy Phipps, MS, OTR/L, CDRS, MAJ (USAR RETIRED)
    • Susie Touchinsky, OTR/L, SCDCM, CDRS
    • Trista Windows, COTA/L, CDRS

    This full-day session provides an in-depth look at vehicle modifications for individuals with mobility needs. Participants will learn key considerations for vehicle selection, wheelchair securement, and seating options, along with clinical reasoning for various solutions. Hands-on activities, case studies, and collaborative discussions will equip attendees to address real-world mobility challenges and support client safety and independence.

Friday
February 20, 2026

  • 8:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

    Beyond the Basics: Tailored Solutions for Unique Clients

    Presenter:

    • Chad Strowmatt, OT, OTD, CDRS

    Explore clinical case studies to distinguish when low-tech or high-tech vehicle modifications are most appropriate, adaptations for out-of-the-box applications, the journey to licensure, and effective team collaboration. This session includes specific case examples of vehicle modifications, strategies for matching solutions to client needs, and the challenges and benefits of working closely with dealer technicians and staff.

  • 1:00 p.m.—4:00 p.m.

    Standards, Practices and Informed Client Choices in Mobility Solutions

    Panelists:

    • Chuck Hardy
    • Erin Engelau
    • Elizabeth Soles, OTR/L, CDRS, CAE

    Moderator:

    • Petra J. McCarney, MS, OTR/L, CDRS

    Discover what really sets quality mobility solutions apart in this lively, discussion-driven panel session. Dive into the real-world intersection of driver rehabilitation, mobility equipment, product comparisons, dealers, and regulations. Get ready for practical tips and clear answers to those tricky client questions about standards and compliance. This isn’t your average standards course. Our expert panel promises real-world insights and useful takeaways you’ll use every day.

    All pre-conference registrants are invited to join the NMEDA Conference welcome reception at 4:00 PM, NMEDA Opening General Session at 5:00PM, and Expo Grand Opening from 6:00 – 9:00 PM.

Thursday
February 19, 2026

  • 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.

    Vehicle Modifications: Seating, Access, and Mobility Solutions

    Presenters:

    • Tammy Phipps, MS, OTR/L, CDRS, MAJ (USAR RETIRED)
    • Susie Touchinsky, OTR/L, SCDCM, CDRS
    • Trista Windows, COTA/L, CDRS

    This full-day session provides an in-depth look at vehicle modifications for individuals with mobility needs. Participants will learn key considerations for vehicle selection, wheelchair securement, and seating options, along with clinical reasoning for various solutions. Hands-on activities, case studies, and collaborative discussions will equip attendees to address real-world mobility challenges and support client safety and independence.

Friday
February 20, 2026

  • 8:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

    Beyond the Basics: Tailored Solutions for Unique Clients

    Presenter:

    • Chad Strowmatt, OT, OTD, CDRS

    Explore clinical case studies to distinguish when low-tech or high-tech vehicle modifications are most appropriate, adaptations for out-of-the-box applications, the journey to licensure, and effective team collaboration. This session includes specific case examples of vehicle modifications, strategies for matching solutions to client needs, and the challenges and benefits of working closely with dealer technicians and staff.

  • 1:00 p.m.—4:00 p.m.

    Standards, Practices and Informed Client Choices in Mobility Solutions

    Panelists:

    • Chuck Hardy
    • Erin Engelau
    • Elizabeth Soles, OTR/L, CDRS, CAE

    Moderator:

    • Petra J. McCarney, MS, OTR/L, CDRS

    Discover what really sets quality mobility solutions apart in this lively, discussion-driven panel session. Dive into the real-world intersection of driver rehabilitation, mobility equipment, product comparisons, dealers, and regulations. Get ready for practical tips and clear answers to those tricky client questions about standards and compliance. This isn’t your average standards course. Our expert panel promises real-world insights and useful takeaways you’ll use every day.

    All pre-conference registrants are invited to join the NMEDA Conference welcome reception at 4:00 PM, NMEDA Opening General Session at 5:00PM, and Expo Grand Opening from 6:00 – 9:00 PM.