Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh's Access Technology Center is committed to providing technology solutions for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. We teach the skills that enable our clients to successfully compete in educational and employment environments.

Established in 1992, the Access Technology Center provides the highest quality of training available in the use of computer and access technology. With a wide variety of available access technology products under one roof, clients are able to evaluate, select and learn to use the best equipment for their needs. Residential facilities are available for this program.

The Access Technology Center offers evaluation programs designed to help individuals who are visually impaired select the appropriate computer and access equipment for their needs, and training programs that teach clients to use specific equipment and software they have selected.  Although general curricula have been established for both programs, an individualized plan is developed for each client and actual job tasks are simulated when possible. The time required to complete training is determined by the client's needs, abilities and previous experience.

The Access Technology Center consists of computer work stations equipped with a wide variety of state-of-the-art technology, including speech output, screen magnification, Braille displays and optical character recognition systems. Portable computers, electronic note taking devices, accessible personal data assistants (PDA) and networking options are featured in the three classrooms which house eight work stations.

Clients receive training in basic computer literacy and word processing, in addition to instruction in assembling equipment, installing and updating software, and system maintenance and trouble-shooting. Training on business applications or custom software can be provided if required. During training, clients may elect to use either their own or the Center's equipment.