Since the profession includes people with such varied backgrounds, beginning in 1995, RESNA developed several certification programs for recognizing a demonstrated level of professional competence in the service provision of assistive technology:[2] Credentialed service providers must meet specific education and professional experience levels, and must demonstrate knowledge of assistive technology, as shown by passing a credentialing exam.
They may be affiliated with hospitals, state vocational rehabilitation programs, schools, assistive technology companies, or disability organizations.
According to Ben Satterfield of Georgia Institute of Technology, (AT) or assistive technology refers to “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of children with disabilities.” The first initial use of AT was to help in the education field, it developed in the mid-1990s.
After the device is assigned, medical equipment companies, rehabilitation facilities or volunteer organizations all customize, maintain and repair it.
[8] As of April 2012, according to RESNA, "To take the exam for ATP certification, candidates MUST meet both the educational and work experience requirements for ONE of the combinations listed below. "
For the follow-up portion of the exam an individual should be prepared to: identify the results, begin the restoration process if necessary, make possible strategy changes, and continue to work toward the consumer's goals.
Throughout the exam an individual will also be evaluated to ensure they are following to code of ethics and actively participating in opportunities for advancement in the assistive technology field.