Technology First Community of Practice
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Across the country, states, providers, and professionals are working to make Technology First more than a policy—it’s becoming a movement that redefines how people are supported to live, work, and connect. Yet, many still ask the same essential question: What does it really mean to live a Technology First approach, not just comply with it?
SHIFT, the nation’s recognized leader in Technology First education and accreditation, is answering that call with the creation of the National Technology First Community of Practice (CoP). This series responds directly to the growing demand for shared learning, real-world examples, and ongoing collaboration among professionals who are leading this work. Whether you’re from a state system, provider organization, or advocacy network, this community offers a space to learn from each other - and from SHIFT’s national expertise - while building the relationships that sustain transformation.
What the Community of Practice Offers: Each session is expert-facilitated yet deeply discussion-based, creating a supportive and energizing forum for open dialogue, practical problem-solving, and peer exchange. Participants will have the opportunity to:
Exchange real-world examples and success stories that demonstrate how Technology First principles are being put into practice
Reflect on challenges and lessons learned, gaining insights from colleagues who have faced similar hurdles
Explore how Technology First values show up in daily decisions across systems, organizations, and individual supports
Build a strong national network of peers who are shaping the future of human services through innovation and collaboration
Why It Matters
As more states adopt Technology First policies, the need for sustained professional dialogue and shared leadership has never been greater. SHIFT’s Community of Practice fills this gap by creating a space for continuous learning and connection - where innovation meets application and where theory becomes everyday action. Through these sessions, participants gain not only ideas and inspiration, but also tangible strategies to take back to their teams, strengthening their own capacity to lead Technology First implementation from within.
Who Should Join
This community welcomes all SHIFT learners, whether you are in the process of earning your certification or currently hold one of our certifications. Whether you are just beginning your journey or advancing toward system-wide transformation, you’ll find the SHIFT Community of Practice to be an inspiring, solution-focused space to connect, learn, and lead.
What Participants Can Expect
Live virtual discussions (60–75 minutes) facilitated by SHIFT experts and leaders
Engaging breakout conversations centered on real-world practice
Spotlights on success from certified professionals across the country
Opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and idea-sharing
A growing network of Technology First professionals shaping the future together
The SHIFT Difference
SHIFT is the country’s trusted partner in helping organizations move from vision to implementation. Through national accreditation, professional certifications programs, and educational opportunities, SHIFT has guided hundreds of organizations and professionals in redefining what it means to provide person-centered, technology-enabled support. The Community of Practice builds on that foundation—bringing together certified professionals and emerging leaders who want to sustain momentum, share best practices, and stay at the forefront of this national movement.
Join the Conversation. Lead the Change.
Be part of the growing national dialogue that’s transforming how technology supports independence, safety, and connection for people everywhere.
Together, we’re turning Technology First from a concept into a culture.
Session 1: From Philosophy to Practice
Date and Time: January 22nd at 11:00AM ET
Facilitator: Constance Harrington, Director of Education & Accreditation, SHIFT
Duration: 60 minutes | Virtual | Discussion-Based
Session Overview
The first session in SHIFT’s National Technology First Community of Practice sets the tone for what this growing movement is all about: turning the philosophy of Technology First into everyday practice.
Across the country, organizations are redefining how people are supported, embracing enabling technology not as an add-on but as a natural and empowering part of life. Yet, even the most dedicated professionals often ask: How do we ensure that Technology First is more than compliance? How do we make it a living culture within our teams, systems, and policies?
This session will explore those questions through open conversation, shared reflection, and stories from the field. Together, participants will reconnect with the guiding principles of the Technology First model and discover how those principles come to life in daily decision-making, planning, and leadership.
What to Expect
This is not a webinar or a lecture—it’s an interactive conversation led by SHIFT’s national experts and fueled by the experiences of those doing the work every day.
This opening session is designed to build shared understanding and collective inspiration:
To help participants re-center on why this work matters
To illustrate what Technology First looks like in action
And to strengthen a sense of community among professionals leading this transformation
Whether you’re just beginning your Technology First journey or deep into implementation, you’ll find this conversation to be both validating and energizing—a chance to connect with others who share your passion for making technology a meaningful part of people’s lives.