Mark Schmeler, PhD, OTR/L, ATP is an Associate Professor and Vice Chair for Education & Training in the Department of RST at Pitt. He oversees all aspects of the graduate training curriculums and continuing education in the field of AT. He has practiced as an Occupational Therapist and assistive technology Professional for over 30 years. He serves as Interim Director of the UPMC Center for Assistive Technology. His research is focused on clinical outcomes and service delivery models to foster evidence-based practice and equitable policy for access to products and services. He has published several peer-reviewed articles and position papers related to tool development, registries, telehealth, and best-practices. He teaches a graduate-level course on AT funding and policy.
Current Project(s):
Project Leader, Funding and Policy Study
Fun Tech Fact Questions & Answers:
Q: Mainstream tech device you can’t live without? Why?
A: Obviously my iPhone as it does everything and the accessibility features for low vision and voice recognition keep getting better and they’re built right in at no cost.
Q: What was your first cell phone?
A: Motorola car phone!
Q: What mainstream tech device is at the top of your wish list?
A: Another Roomba to mop the floor.
Q: If you were a mainstream tech device, what would you be, and why?
A: An Alexa because I like it when people talk to me, ask me questions, and I can try to help even when I do not know the answer.