A panel discussion at the Unified Sports & Inclusion Center will highlight the unique partnership and explore future trends in inclusive technology.

GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan - As part of Tech Week 2024, CS Erickson and Special Olympics Michigan are proud to host "Defying Limits: Tech-Driven Inclusivity," a panel discussion exploring how technology is revolutionizing accessibility and inclusion. The session brings together industry leaders and advocates to discuss cutting-edge technological solutions that create more equitable environments for all.

"At CS Erickson, we're all about solving complex problems for our clients and helping them create experiences that bring people together through technology," said Wes Richards, Director of AV Technology at CS Erickson. "Our partnership with Special Olympics Michigan exemplifies our technology-led design approach. We're not just implementing technology; we're changing how the world thinks about this community and technology."

CS Erickson's work at the Unified Sports & Inclusion Center showcases their commitment to tech-driven inclusivity. Some of the innovative solutions implemented include:

1. The auditorium has an advanced speaker system with beam-forming technology, which allows for tailored sound levels to accommodate individual needs.
2. There is a designated "quiet area" in the center of the auditorium for those sensitive to sound, complemented by acoustic treatments and custom lighting to address visual sensitivities.
3. A state-of-the-art collaboration room featuring Lumens' AI Camera system, integrated with top-tier equipment from Sonance, Sennheiser, Barco, and Lumens, for optimal performance in both in-person and remote interactions.
4. The integration of Temi, a workplace robot, to aid office managers and serve as an educational tool, facilitating programming, tours, and global connections for athletes and employees.

At the Tech Week event, a panel of experts will discuss these advancements in addition to future trends in inclusive technology. Those speaking on the panel include:

• Wes Richards, Director of AV Technology at CS Erickson
• Jennifer VanSkiver, Chief Officer of Strategic Growth at Special Olympics of Michigan
• Gerid Adams, President of the Department of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
• James Bobel, North American Sales Manager of HOLOPLOT
• Claudette Reid, Occupational Therapist at the State of Michigan
• Monica Robins, Business Relations Consultant at the State of Michigan

The event will take place on Tuesday, September 17, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Special Olympics of Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit the Tech Week website.

—----

About CS Erickson: CS Erickson is a leading technology integration firm specializing in creating seamless user experiences through innovative AV solutions. With a focus on technology-led design and a consultative approach, CS Erickson has grown tenfold since 2017, offering a comprehensive range of services from electrical and low-voltage systems to audiovisual technology and industrial automation.

About Special Olympics Michigan: Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Since joining the Special Olympics movement in 1968, SOMI has been dedicated to transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sports training and competition. SOMI's programs are made possible through the generous donations of Michigan citizens and businesses, and the dedication of volunteers across the state.

###

About Special Olympics
Founded in 1968, Special Olympics is a global movement to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities. We foster acceptance of all people through the power of sport and programming in education, health and leadership. With more than six million athletes and Special Olympics Unified Sports® partners in over 190 countries and territories and more than one million coaches and volunteers, Special Olympics delivers more than 30 Olympic-type sports and over 100,000 Games and competitions every year. Engage with us on: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and our blog on Medium. Learn more at www.SpecialOlympics.org.