We're sharing insights and updates that we hope you’ll find valuable and will share with your team and customers. As always, we thank you for your ongoing partnership in helping ensure the best outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
3 Questions with Jodi Szuter, Specialist – Special Education
What inspired you to start working in the assistive technology industry?
My career in Federal Contracting and EdTech began back in 2002. As a self-proclaimed nerd, I was fascinated not just by the technology itself, but by how it was funded, purchased, and implemented—every piece of the puzzle intrigued me.
One of the most impactful roles I held was as Business Development Manager for the Education Channel at an EdTech and ProAV distributor. During that time, our company acquired an Assistive Technology brand featuring a touch screen on an automated, tilt-adjustable base—designed to provide wheelchair users with easy, independent access. That’s when everything changed for me.
I started attending conferences to showcase this device, and at one event, I met a 7-year-old boy named Forrest, who had cerebral palsy. We played a bowling game together on the device, and I’ll never forget the pure joy on his face as he realized he could use it without anyone’s help. In that moment, Assistive Technology became so much more than a product—it became my passion.
Around the same time, my great niece was born with significant disabilities, and a few years later, my great nephew was diagnosed with autism. What began as a job quickly turned into a calling. Today, I feel incredibly grateful to work in an industry that empowers individuals, supports families (including my own), and brings inclusion to life. I love what I get to do every day.
What is your favorite AbleNet product to showcase to customers, and why?
It’s hard to choose just one—I genuinely enjoy showcasing the entire AbleNet lineup! But if I had to pick, I’d say the All-Turn-It Spinner holds a special place in my heart. Watching students light up as they use it to play games is incredibly rewarding - play is such a vital part of the learning process, and this tool makes it accessible to everyone.
I also love demonstrating the QuickTalker communication devices. They provide a voice for individuals, and the ability to customize each device based on personal needs—whether it’s for everyday communication or setting it up so someone can read a story independently—is truly powerful. It’s all about creating opportunities for connection, learning, and independence.
What's a fun fact about where you live that not many people know?
I live in Dana Point, California—a small coastal gem that covers just 29.5 square miles, and only 6.5 of those are land! Despite its size, it’s earned the title of “Whale Watching Capital of the World.” Each year, thousands of whales pass by our coastline during their migration from the cold northern waters of the U.S. to the warm seas of Mexico.
Another spectacular sight we’re known for is our Dolphin Stampedes—yes, it’s as incredible as it sounds! Imagine hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dolphins leaping and swimming in unison at high speeds. It’s truly one of nature’s most breathtaking shows, and we’re lucky to witness it right in our backyard.\
Jodi Szuter
Specialist - Special Education
Cell: 949.391.0216
Office: 949.416.3560
SCHOOL HEALTH CORPORATION
Health Services | Special Education | Early Childhood | Physical Education | Sports Medicine