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From Adversity to Advocacy: Aaron Linson's Journey as a Legally Blind Accessibility Champion and Technology Advocate
Join GlobalMindED in celebrating the achievements of individuals with disabilities and those who support them. We're highlighting inspiring stories from education, business, and advocacy.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Aaron has been legally blind his entire life due to Retinopathy of Prematurity. In 2018, he experienced a significant increase in light sensitivity, requiring him to maximize magnification software. Determined to master screen reading technology, Aaron became the Accessibility Project Lead at BIT (the Blind Institute of Technology), where he helps clients make their digital properties inclusive for all. When not working, Aaron enjoys coding, reading sci-fi and fantasy novels, and exploring the outdoors, often navigating without GPS. An avid Braille user and technology enthusiast, he has turned challenges into opportunities.
Aaron's life began with adversity; born four months premature and weighing just 1 lb. 8 oz., he faced a 99% chance of being in a vegetable state or dying. Despite doctors' predictions, he thrived thanks to his mother’s unwavering advocacy for his independence. He attended a school for the blind, where he fought for Braille education and eventually succeeded. In college, faced with inadequate support for students with disabilities, Aaron proactively engaged with professors to secure accommodations, ultimately earning a Bachelors of Science in Music concentrated in Audio Production. He later worked as a recruiter in healthcare and technology, recognizing the lack of accessible internal applications and advocating for change. In February 2018, Aaron’s vision deteriorated, leading him to explore alternative tools like Braille displays and screen readers, which he appreciated learning to use.
After his recruiting job at Amazon ended, he joined BIT's digital accessibility pilot program. There, he earned his CPACC (Certified Professional In Accessibility Core Competencies) certification and began collaborating with Disability Solutions, assessing job application processes for accessibility and driving change in various organizations. Aaron’s efforts have resulted in numerous companies improving their employment applications to be more accessible. His proactive approach led to a position at BIT, where he eagerly volunteers for projects and supports the team. He believes that apprenticeships provide valuable skills and empower people with disabilities to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Aaron’s story illustrates the transformative power of inclusion and accessibility in the workforce. At GlobalMindED, we work to amplify stories like his by creating pathways for success through education and professional development. By connecting students and professionals from underrepresented backgrounds with mentors, resources, and opportunities, we help build a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Together with organizations like BIT, GlobalMindED is committed to ensuring everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.
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