October—December 2022

October—December 2022 | Volume 29 Issue 4

Life Moving Forward CEO’s Message: Building a Foundation NMEDA’s Auto Mobility Price Survey: WHY? Welcome New Leadership: BraunAbility ...and so much more!

THE NMEDA MAGAZINE

HOW ARE THEY DOING THAT? Capitalizing on NMEDA’s Social Success See page 47

See pg. 34

NMEDA.org

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NMEDA CIRCUIT BREAKER

OCT—DEC 2022

THE NMEDA MAGAZINE

President

CEO

Layout, Editor & Creative Director

COLUMNS

17

8

Officer’s Message - By Gina Lewis

19

CEO’s Message - By Danny Langfield

NMEDA’s Auto Mobility Price Survey: WHY? - By Amy Schoppman

24

Canada Officer’s Message - By Tamalea Stone

28

Education & Training Report - By Amy Lane

44

Industry Advisor - By Harry Baergen

30

Member Notice: Welcome BraunAbility Leadership - By Megan Wegner

52

QAP Straight Talk - By Chuck Hardy

34

2022 NMEDA Annual Conference - By Katie McDonald

22

Katie McDonald

Contributing Writers Harry Baergen Chuck Hardy Amy Lane Danny Langfield Gina Lewis Katie McDonald Stephanie Morando Mike Savicki Amy Schoppman Tamalea Stone Megan Wegner

47 The Circuit Breaker is published quarterly by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association.

3327 W. Bearss Avenue Tampa, FL 33618 For business office, advertising, and subscriptions:

CONTENTS

FEATURES

Christian Quandt

Danny Langfield

VOLUME 29, ISSUE 4

50

In Memoriam: Congresswoman Walorski - By Amy Schoppman

On the Cover How are They Doing That?

Capitalizing on NMEDA’s Social Success - By Stephanie Morando Mobility MY Way - By Mike Savicki

Tel: 813.264.2697 Toll-Free: 800.833.0427 www.nmeda.org info@nmeda.org Subscription rates for the USA and Canada: $16.50/four issues.

Back issues are available by calling the NMEDA office.

ALSO

4

Board of Directors

6

Staff Directory

9

Around the Industry

10

Dealer Member Directory

56

QAP Dashboard

58

Industry Member Directory

59

Allied Health Professional Member Directory

60

Edu/Government/Non-Profit Member Directory

62

Dates to Remember

All rights are reserved under copyright laws © 2022.

The articles published in the Circuit Breaker reflect the opinions of their authors, not NMEDA. As such, NMEDA neither takes a position on nor assumes responsibility for the accuracy of the information or statements contained therein.

MISSION The mission of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association is to advocate and exemplify excellence in providing safe, reliable transportation solutions to enhance accessibility.

Oct-Dec 2022

3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christian Quandt, President

Russ Newton, Canadian President

Advanced Wheels 33 Bradley Park Road East Granby, CT 06026 860.653.8064 phone christian@advancedwheels.com

Sure Grip 4850 Route 102 Upper Kingsclear, NB E3E 1P8 800.506.6666 phone russ@suregrip-hvl.com

Sam Cook, Vice President

Eva Richardville, Allied Health Professional Rep.

Superior Van & Mobility 1506 Lakeshore Court Louisville, KY 40223 502.447.8267 phone scook@superiorvan.com

Eric Mansfield, Secretary

Trevorr Jurgensen, Rep. at Large 1

MobilityWorks 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 800.638.8267 phone eric.mansfield@mobilityworks.com

MobilityWorks 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 800.638.8267 phone trevorr.jurgensen@mobilityworks.com

Catherine Martin, Treasurer

Dennis Charvat, Rep. at Large 2

Ilderton Conversions 701 South Main Street High Point, NC 27260 336.841.6100 phone cmartin@ilderton.com

Total Mobility Services 4785 Penn Avenue Boswell, PA 15531 814.629.9935 phone dennis@tmservices.com

Gina Lewis, Manufacturer Rep.

Corey Kupsh Rep. at Large 3

Adapt-Solutions 145 Damase-Breton St-Lambert, QC G0S 2W0 866.641.0419 phone ginalewis@adapt-solutions.ca

A & J Mobility 333 Washington Street Valders, WI 54245 920.775.4104 phone coreyk@aandjvans.com

Todd Navarrete, Manufacturer Rep.

Dan Walsh, Rep. at Large 4

VMI 5205 S. 28th Place Phoenix, AZ 85040 800.348.8267 phone toddn@vantagemobility.com

Bussani Mobility 500 Central Avenue Bethpage, NY 11714 516.938.5207 phone dwalsh@wegetyouthere.com

Chad Blake, Past President Ability Center 4797 Ruffner Street San Diego, CA 92111 858.541.0552 phone cblake@abilitycenter.com

4

Therapeutic Mobility Services, Inc. 311 N. Airport Office Park Fort Wayne, IN 46285 260.417.8399 phone eva@theramobility.net

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

MOBILITY

INNOVATIONS

800 488 7688

www.mobilityinnovators.com

The Jimmy by Veigel is a seat belt assist device designed to aid drivers and passengers with buckling and unbuckling the seat belt buckle in an automobile.

The Jimmy’s ergonomic design is light weight and easy to use. Buckling: The ergonomic joystick grip gives you more control to easily engage the buckle.

Un-Buckling: Simply pull back on The Jimmy lever while pressing the release button to effortlessly disengage the buckle. Safety: Pulling back on the lever alone will not disengage the buckle. The release button has been designed to prevent unintended disengagement of the buckle.

Light weight ergonomic design for maximum comfort Safety release button prevents unintended disengagement of the buckle Vehicle specific mounting brackets ensure a safe fit and no damage to your automobile safety belt buckle Specific applications available to fit most vehicles Installation is quick and easy

within minutes

Simply clamp the vehicle specific side brackets to the male side of the buckle Can be removed without damage to the factory belt buckle

Oct-Dec 2022

5

NMEDA STAFF DIRECTORY Danny Langfield CEO danny.langfield@nmeda.org

Kristen Clevidence Quality Program Manager kristen.clevidence@nmeda.org

Mikala Ballard Membership & Administration Coordinator mikala.ballard@nmeda.org

Chuck Hardy Director of Quality & Compliance chuck.hardy@nmeda.org

Trevor Jennings Director of Partner Relations trevor.jennings@nmeda.org

Amy Lane Director of Education, Training & Conference amy.lane@nmeda.org

Katie McDonald Director of Communications & Social katie.mcdonald@nmeda.org

Marilyn Myers Senior Bookkeeper marilyn.myers@nmeda.org

Amy Schoppman Director of Government Relations & Public Policy amy.schoppman@nmeda.org

6

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

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Oct-Dec 2022

7

OFFICER’S MESSAGE

This Could Be Interesting...

By Gina Lewis, Adapt Solutions MANUFACTURER REPRESENTATIVE, NMEDA

W

hen I was approached to

general, most of us feel the shift in the

their struggles and challenges allowed

write this installment of

workforce. The speaker’s call to action

the team to walk away with valuable

the “officer’s message”

resonated loud and clear.

insight. It was a positive shift in pace to be all together in one location.

my initial response was, “This could

A new addition to the scheduling at

be interesting...” Little did I know

the conference was the round table

The NMEDA auction brought smiles,

that this casual reply would hold a

discussions. Fifteen subjects and

laughs, purses, purses, and more purses

second layer of truth, as our second

moderators. I had the privilege to

than ever! The great generosity of the

Auto Mobility Expo and collocated

moderate one of these tables, and I

donors and bidders provided valuable

NMEDA and ADED Conferences came,

thoroughly enjoyed the format. Sit

funding for the year to come.

once again, with some interesting

at a table with a group of people,

circumstances. Admittedly, the

In conclusion, our industry has been

exchange and discuss a specific

wind blew, and the rain poured—but

marked by great men and women that

subject. Our industry has so many

despite this, what a huge success it

have brought change and innovation to

experienced men and women that are

was! Some, unfortunately, were unable

the way we all do business. The NMEDA

leaders and mentors. What a neat way

to attend due to cancelled flights and

banquet ended with the inductions of

to exchange, learn from others and

travel woes, but, amazingly enough,

three great men into the NMEDA hall of

glean knowledge. If you missed it this

most were able to make it there

fame.

time around, I would strongly suggest

safely—and what a great show we

you plan to attend next time.

If you missed out this year, check out the recap beginning on pg 34, and I

had!

This new format of the colocation It was wonderful to see everybody.

sincerely hope to see you at the next

certainly keeps us all very busy. The

The expo hall was bustling with new

collocated conference in Kansas City,

schedule was jammed packed with

attendees and old friends and on

events for learning, networking,

opening night, the food and drinks

contemplating, exchanging,

made an ideal setting for meeting,

discussing, and socializing.

visiting, networking, and catching up.

The opening session for the NMEDA conference was both interesting and entertaining. It certainly addressed something we’re all noticing in our businesses: the struggle to find staff.

As we all strive to keep our highly trained personnel, it pointed out the urgent need to shine a light on what we do and to grow interest for our amazing industry. Many are struggling to find qualified technicians. In

My team, most of whom had never attended an ADED conference before, enjoyed the variety and quality of attendees that came through our booth. They were impressed with the questions and case studies brought to their attention. Having members of our engineering team on hand sparked up some very interesting conversations and gave my team a more in-depth view into what our industry’s Driver Rehab Specialists face. Understanding

8

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

September 30 to October 2, 2023.

---

AROUND THE INDUSTRY BraunAbility and Purdue University Earn DOT 1st Place Prize On the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the USDOT awarded the $1 million first prize from their Inclusive Design Challenge. The challenge was designed to find “innovative designs to enhance mobility options for people with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities and to provide equal access to automated vehicles.”

NMEDA Member BraunAbility and Purdue University won with its project, EASI RIDER, or Efficient, Accessible and Safe Interaction in a Real Integrated Design Environment for Riders with disabilities.

New NMEDA Three-Year Strategic Plan Released If you’ve been following the storyline of the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, you know it all began in April, when the NMEDA Board of Directors, along with NMEDA staff gathered in Tampa to establish the association’s goals and supporting strategies for the next three years.

Following that session staff conducted a one-day planning session outlining SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely) action plans that they will execute in order to achieve those goals.

To say that day was “full” would be an understatement, but staff stuck to a strict schedule of brainstorming, sharing, and discussing which resulted in the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

You can find the updated plan on www.nmeda.org under the “About” section.

AUTO for Veterans Act Passed by House of Representatives In early October, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3304, also known as the AUTO for Veterans Act. This revised legislation authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide an additional automobile allowance immediately to eligible veterans if 25 years have elapsed since the date they received their first automobile grant. Over time, the period would shorten to 10 years.

The AUTO for Veterans Act would also change the definition of “medical services,” to include certain vehicle modifications like van lifts, which are offered through VA’s Automobile Adaptive Equipment program. This latter provision would help ensure veterans with non-service-connected illnesses and injuries continue to receive help through the AAE program.

For this bill to become law, it must also be passed by the Senate and signed by the President.

New AV Research Network Established to Ensure Technology is Inclusive & Equitable Self-driving tech company Waymo has launched a new initiative that could give people with disabilities more of a say on how autonomous vehicles (AVs) are developed.

The Waymo Accessibility Network will work directly with member organizations to conduct user research, do product testing, and more—allowing the company to expand its current offering of accessible design features, which includes the likes of audio cues, screen readers, and support chats.

The WAN currently consists of 13 leading disability advocates including NMEDA partner, United Spinal Association, and will likely expand it’s membership in the coming years.

Oct-Dec 2022

9

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS UNITED STATES ____________________________

ALABAMA Griffin Mobility 213 Chestnut Street NW Hartselle, AL 35640 (256) 751-1365 1 Gulf States Mobility 1647 Coosa River Parkway Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-6590 1, 2, 3 High Tech Mobility LLC 3351 Warrior River Rd Hueytown, AL 35023-1304 (205) 491-2109 1, 3 MobilityWorks Birmingham 3747 Pine Lane SE Bessemer, AL 35022 (205) 426-8261 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Huntsville 2150 Meridian Street North Huntsville, AL 35811 (234) 542-3022 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Montgomery 2015 Eastern Blvd.

Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 244-1011 1, 3 ____________________________

United Access - Phoenix 1825 E Germann Road Suite 24 Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 999-5939 1, 2, 3

Ability Center - Santa Rosa 3285 Santa Rosa Avenue Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95707 (707) 575-6997 1, 3

MobilityWorks - San Diego 8130 Parkway Drive LaMesa, CA 91942 (619) 474-4072 1

United Access - Scottsdale 14885 N 83rd Pl., Ste 105 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 941-4800 1

AERO Mobility 1001 N Weir Canyon Road Anaheim, CA 92807 (714) 973-8600 1, 2, 3

MobilityWorks - San Francisco 890 Cowan Road Suite B Burlingame, CA 94010 (800) 225-7361 1,3

Economy Medical Lifestyle Mobility 2355 Whitman Rd Ste F Concord, CA 94518-2542 (925) 671-4800 1

MobilityWorks - Santa Clara 1245 Laurelwood Rd Santa Clara, CA 95054 (888) 473-5402 1, 3

Gary E. Colle, Inc./dba Goldenboy of San Diego 12130 Dearborn Place Poway, CA 92064 (858) 748-9414 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Van Nuys 7720 North Sepulveda Blvd Van Nuys, CA 91405 (888) 473-5402 1, 3

____________________________

ARKANSAS MobilityWorks - Bryant 3418 Main St Suite 400 Bryant, AR 72022 (501) 794-3100 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Fayetteville 2887 N College Ave Suite B Fayetteville, AR 72703 (479) 521-8433 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Jonesboro 2421 Sunny Meadow Drive, Ste D Jonesboro, AR 72401 (870) 933-7270 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility North Little Rock 7323 Cock of the Walk St Suite B North Little Rock, AR 72113 (501) 725-9070 1, 3 ____________________________

ARIZONA CALIFORNIA A.D.E. Industries, Inc. 3621 S Palo Verde Tucson, AZ 85713 (520) 571-7156 1 Ability Center - Goodyear 13765 W Auto Drive Suite 125 Goodyear, AZ 85338 (623) 242-0552 1,3 Ability Center - Phoenix 23606 N 19th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85085 (623) 879-0800 1, 3 Ability Center - Tucson 4720 N La Cholla Blvd Suite 150 Tucson, AZ 85705 (520) 293-3596 1, 3

10

Ability Center - Inland Empire 711 S Allen St San Bernardino, CA 92408 (909) 383-3883 1, 3 Ability Center - Orange Co 11600 Western Avenue Stanton, CA 90680 (714) 890-8262 1, 3 Ability Center Sacramento 6550 Freeport Blvd Suite A Sacramento, CA 95822 (916) 392-1196 1, 3 Ability Center - San Diego 4797 Ruffner Street San Diego, CA 92111 (858) 541-0552 1, 3

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

MobilityWorks - Chico 7 Three Sevens Lane Chico, CA 95973 (800) 225-7361 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Fresno 120 North Diamond Street Fresno, CA 93701 (559) 268-9394 1,3 MobilityWorks - Hawthorne 3403 Jack Northrop Ave Hawthorne, CA 902504428 (310) 432-0700 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Oakland 1822 Embarcadero Avenue Oakland, CA 94606 (510) 927-2860 1 MobilityWorks - Pasadena 325 North Altadena Drive Pasadena, CA 91107 (626) 584-8181 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Riverside 7239 Indiana Avenue Riverside, CA 92504 (951) 686-3152 1,3 MobilityWorks Sacramento 3127 Fite Circle Suite B Sacramento, CA 95827 (800) 225-7361 1, 3

SACVANS Mobility 5821 Florin Perkins Rd Sacramento, CA 95828 (916) 381-8267 1 ____________________________

COLORADO Colorado Fleet & Mobility, dba Mobility of Denver 2311 S Platte River Drive Denver, CO 80223 (844) 289-2635 1, 3 Frontier Access & Mobility Systems, Inc. - Fort Collins 819 E. Mulberry St. Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 223-8267 1 Mobility Driven 832 Nth Crest Unit B Grand Junction, CO 81506 (970) 712-1435 1 MobilityWorks - Aurora 1640 S Abilene St Aurora, CO 80012 (720) 640-9989 1, 3 United Access - Colorado Springs 6285 Corporate Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (877) 501-8267 1 United Access - Denver (South) 5910 E County Line Rd Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 (877) 501-8267 1, 2, 3

1 = Mobility Equipment Installer 2 = Structural Vehicle Modifier 3 = High Tech Driving Systems Installer

United Access - Denver (West) 9500 W 49th Ave Ste C107 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (877) 501-8267 1,2,3

Custom Mobility 7199 Bryan Dairy Road Largo, FL 33777 (727) 539-8119 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Miami 5201 NW 77th Ave Suite 100 Miami, FL 33166 (305) 234-0071 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Atlanta 3700 Dekalb Technology Pkwy Doraville, GA 30340 (470) 427-0696 1, 3

____________________________

Kempf Inc 5532 56th Commerce Park Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 630-0409 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Ocala 7265 SW 62nd Ave Unit 1 Ocala, FL 34476 (352) 300-1173 1

MobilityWorks - Marietta 1255 Kennestone Circle Suite 100 Marietta, GA 30066 (800) 444-9100 1, 3

Mike Erdman Mobility 4650 US Highway 520 Cocoa, FL 32926 (321) 636-8887 1

MobilityWorks - Orlando 7260 Narcoossee Road Orlando, FL 32822 (407) 674-8778 1, 3

Mobility Transportation Systems 4010 East Hillsborough Ave Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 246-9116 1, 2, 3

MobilityWorks Tallahassee 1505 Capital Circle NW Tallahassee, FL 32303 (850) 224-4383 1

MobilityWorks - Clermont 20354 US Highway 27 Clermont, FL 34715 (352) 322-2256 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Tampa 8706D East Broadway Ave Tampa, FL 33619 (813) 628-4255 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Daytona 364 Destination Daytona Ln Ormond Beach, FL 32137 (386) 586-5495 1, 3

Ocean Conversions & Mobility 750 East Sample Road Bldg 1 Suite 3 Pompano Beach, FL 33064 (954) 942-6033 1, 2, 3

CONNECTICUT Advanced Wheels - East Granby 33 Bradley Park Road East Granby, CT 06026 (860) 653-8064 1, 2, 3 Advanced Wheels of Technology 650 Coe Avenue Suite 2 East Haven, CT 06512 (203) 800-8064 1 MobilityWorks - East Hartford 104 Pitkin Street E. Hartford, CT 06108 (860) 282-8202 1, 3 ____________________________

DELAWARE MobilityWorks - Bear 1010 Contractors Way Bear, DE 19701 (302) 613-7555 1, 3 NuMotion/Spinlife 773 South DuPont Hwy New Castle, DE 19720 (302) 836-4110 1 ____________________________

FLORIDA Ability Center - Orlando 4401 Edgewater Dr Orlando, FL 32804-1215 (407) 751-4158 1 Ability Center - Sarasota 5611 S Tamiami Trl Sarasota, FL 34231-4140 (941) 706-4687 1 Advanced Driving Systems, Inc. 662 Capital Cir NE Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 671-2300 1, 2, 3 Auto Express South 4852 Palm Beach Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33905 (239) 693-4000 1, 4

MobilityWorks - Fort Lauderdale 5601 Powerline Road Suite 104 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 (954) 974-7028 1 MobilityWorks - Fort Myers 12530 Metro Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33966 (239) 275-1900 1 MobilityWorks Jacksonville 2727 St Johns Bluff Road S Jacksonville, FL 32246 (904) 281-0111 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Lake Worth 1925 10th Ave N Unit 1 Lake Worth, FL 33461 (561) 586-1997 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Largo 8203 Ulmerton Road Largo, FL 33771 (727) 521-4248 1, 3

Ocean Conversions of Fort Myers Inc 5751 Zip Drive Ft. Myers, FL 33905 (239) 936-6333 1, 2, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Pensacola 6260 Technology Dr. Suite B Pensacola, FL 32505 (850) 378-8914 1,

MobilityWorks - Savannah 3938 Ogeechee Road Savannah, GA 31405 (912) 233-1050 1 R & R Van Lift Sales & Service - Athens 164 Commerce Blvd Athens, GA 30606 (470) 276-6282 1 R & R Van Lift Sales & Service - Conyers 2130 Sigman Road Conyers, GA 30012 (770) 483-0767 1, 2, 3 ____________________________

HAWAII Soderholm Mobility 2044 Dillingham Blvd Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 834-1417 1, 3 ____________________________

ILLINOIS Bettenhausen Auto 8355 W 159th St Tinley Park, IL 60477-1220 1 708 532 2665

GEORGIA

MobilityWorks - Niles 9207 N Milwaukee Ave Niles, IL 60714 (847) 673-4300 1, 3

Adaptive Driving Solutions 3585 Riverwatch Parkway Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-2688 1, 2, 3

MobilityWorks - Plainfield 23855 W Andrew Road Plainfield, IL 60585 (888) 473-5402 1, 3

Custom Mobility Van & Lift Sales & Svcs. LLC 315 Whitehead Rd Athens, GA 30606 (706) 353-1099 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Villa Park 155 East North Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181 (888) 473-5402 1, 3

___________________________

Oct-Dec 2022

11

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS Personal Mobility Springfield 2924 N Dirksen Parkway Springfield, IL 62702 (217) 544-2699 1, 3 Southern Bus and Mobility - Breese 12950 Koch Lane Breese, IL 62230 (618) 526-4131 1, 3 ____________________________

INDIANA MobilityWorks - Merrillville 1710 W 81st Avenue Merrillville, IN 46410 (234) 200-1339 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Evansville 3414 Interstate Drive Evansville, IN 47715 (812) 402-8267 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Fishers 13095 Parkside Drive Fishers, IN 46038 (317) 436-6722 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Fort Wayne 2218 Contractors Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46818 (260) 497-8267 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Indianapolis 5410 South Madison Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46227 (317) 781-6900 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility South Bend 4246 Meghan Beeler Ct. Suite 1 South Bend, IN 46628 (574) 271-1175 1, 3 ____________________________

IOWA Siebert Mobility of Iowa LLC 3554 Dolphin Drive Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 351-3159 1, 3

KANSAS

MAINE

Banner Mobility Resources Inc. 231 SE 53rd St Ste C Topeka, KS 66609 (785) 235-3070 1

MobilityWorks - Bangor 1766 Hammond St Hermon, ME 04401 (888) 473-5402 1

Kansas Truck Mobility 8846 West Monroe Circle Wichita, KS 67209 (316) 722-4291 1 United Access - Lenexa 7921 Bond St Lenexa, KS 66214 (877) 501-8267 1, 3 ____________________________

____________________________

MARYLAND All Mobility Store LLC 8999 Ocean Hwy Delmar, MD 21875 1-4105434323 1, 3

KENTUCKY Superior Van & Mobility Lexington 761 East New Circle Road Lexington, KY 40505 (859) 253-1832 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Louisville 1506 Lakeshore Court Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 447-8267 1, 3

BEDCO Mobility 6300 Falls Rd Unit 2 Baltimore, MD 21209 (410) 825-1440 1 Jerry’s Mobility 8001 Belair Rd Baltimore, MD 21236-3709 (410) 661-5700 1

LOUISIANA

Koons Ford of Annapolis 2540 Riva Road Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 224-2100 1, 3

FastServ Medical - Bossier 1329 Driftwood Drive Bossier City, LA 71111 (318) 741-9586 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Baltimore 2601 N Rolling Road Windsor, MD 21244 (443) 384-0080 1

Fastserv Medical - Monroe 112 Summer Lane West Monroe, LA 71291 (318) 396-3366 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Beltsville 11409 Maryland Avenue Beltsville, MD 20705 (727) 521-4248 1, 3

Superior Van & Mobility Baton Rouge 12329 Industriplex Blvd Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 663-8830 1, 3

The Customizers, Inc. 14133 Pennsylvania Ave Hagerstown, MD 21742 (301) 797-7727 1

____________________________

Superior Van & Mobility New Orleans 1901 Westbank Expressway Suite 500 Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 684-2100 1 ____________________________

____________________________

12

MobilityWorks - Gray 32 Lewiston Road Unit 2B Gray, ME 04039 (207) 657-6664 1,3

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

Total Mobility Services Inc - Frederick 5411 Yukon Court Suite B Frederick, MD 21703 (240) 490-7840 1, 3 ____________________________

MASSACHUSETTS Adaptive Mobility Equipment, Inc. 1551 Fall River Ave Seekonk, MA 02771 (508) 336-2556 1, 3

Advanced Wheels - North Oxford 6 Boulder Pkwy North Oxford, MA 01537 (508) 731-0073 1 MobilityWorks - North Attleboro 57 George Levin Drive N. Attleboro, MA 02760 (508) 643-0605 1,3 MobilityWorks - Norwood 560 Boston Providence Hwy Norwood, MA 02062 (781) 278-8885 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Woburn 299 Washington Street Suite H Woburn, MA 01801 (339) 298-5650 1,3 ____________________________

MICHIGAN Access Mobility Center 7620 Eastman Avenue Midland, MI 48642 (989) 633-6100 1 Clock Mobility - Grand Rapids 6700 Clay Ave Grand Rapids, MI 49548 (616) 698-9400 1, 2, 3 Clock Mobility - Lansing 603 N Waverly Rd Lansing, MI 48917-2800 (517) 272-4488 1 Clock Mobility - Traverse City 587 W Blue Star Drive Traverse City, MI 49684 (231) 943-9890 1 Creative Mobility Group Byron Center 7740 Clyde Park Ave SW Byron Center, MI 49315 (616) 583-9730 1 Creative Mobility Group Madison Heights 32217 Stephenson Hwy Madison Heights, MI 48071 (248) 577-5430 1, 3

1 = Mobility Equipment Installer 2 = Structural Vehicle Modifier 3 = High Tech Driving Systems Installer

Creative Mobility Group, Inc. - Wayne 33073 Michigan Avenue Wayne, MI 48184 (734) 595-4400 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Detroit 1604 East 14 Mile Road Madison Heights, MI 48071 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Saginaw 8175 Gratiot Road Saginaw, MI 48609 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Ann Arbor 3858 Bestech Rd, Ste A Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (734) 802-5286 1,3 ____________________________

MINNESOTA Bert’s Truck Equipment of Moorhead, Inc. 3804 Hwy 75 North Moorhead, MN 56560 (218) 233-8681 1 Cummings Mobility Albertville 6540 Jansen Ave NE Albertville, MN 55301 (763) 497-0103 1, 2, 3 Cummings Mobility Burnsville 2511 West Hwy 13 Burnsville, MN 55337 (952) 435-8889 1

Mobility Systems Inc 2857 Oak Grove Road Hattiesburg, MS 39402 (601) 264-0609 1, 2, 3

United Access - St. Louis (South) 980 S Highway Dr Fenton, MO 63026 (877) 501-8267 1

Team Adaptive Inc - Biloxi 978 Tommy Munro Drive Biloxi, MS 39532 (228) 388-5700 1, 3

____________________________

____________________________

MISSOURI DW Auto & Home Mobility Specialties 1208 N Garth Ave Columbia, MO 65203 (800) 568-2271 1, 2, 3

Southern Bus & Mobility Inc - Valley Park 80 South Highway Drive Valley Park, MO 63088 (636) 825-0700 1

NEVADA

United Access - Cape Girardeau 753 S Kingshighway St Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 (877) 501-8267 1 United Access - Columbia 618 Jackson St Columbia, MO 65203 (877) 501-8267 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Roseville 1915 County Rd C West Roseville, MN 55113 (234) 312-2000 1, 3

United Access - Springfield MO 1389 N Cedarbrook Ave Springfield, MO 65802 (877) 501-8267 1, 3

Js Mobility Unlimited Inc 3880 Flowood Drive Flowood, MS 39232 (601) 939-2112 1, 2, 3

MobilityWorks - Omaha 4044 South 60th St Omaha, NE 68117 (402) 991-2555 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Omaha 11147 Mockingbird Dr. Omaha, NE 68137 (402) 934-7826 1, 3

United Access - Kansas City 8200 NW 97th Ter Kansas City, MO 64153 (877) 501-8267 1, 3

MISSISSIPPI

Mobility Motoring 7222 South 142nd Street Omaha, NE 68138 (402) 884-3333 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Kansas City 1115 SW Oldham Pkwy Lees Summit, MO 640812477 (816) 600-5124 1

Cummings Mobility - Little Canada 2940 Rice St. Little Canada, MN 55113 (651) 633-7887 1

____________________________

NEBRASKA

United Access - St. Louis (North) 9389 Natural Bridge Rd St Louis, MO 63134 (877) 501-8267 1, 2, 3

____________________________

Ability Center - Las Vegas 6001 S Decatur Blvd Suite N Las Vegas, NV 89118 (702) 434-3030 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Las Vegas 3575 W Cheyenne Ave Suite #108 North Las Vegas, NV 89032-8257 (702) 876-9606 1, 3 ____________________________

NEW HAMPSHIRE MobilityWorks Londonderry 54 Wentworth Avenue Londonderry, NH 03053 (603) 437-4444 1, 2, 3 New England Motor Car Co Inc 13 River Road Hudson, NH 03051 (603) 888-1207 1, 3 ____________________________

NEW JERSEY FTMobility 255 US Highway 46 West Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 (973) 546-1900 1 MobilityWorks Cinnaminson 2303 Wallace Blvd Cinnaminson, NJ 08077 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks Farmingdale 5105 State Route 33 Wall Township, NJ 077274003 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Highland Park 211 Woodbridge Ave Highland Park, NJ 08904 (732) 640-5350 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Woodbury 1549 Gateway Blvd Woodbury, NJ 08096 (888) 473-5402 1, 2, 3 ____________________________

NEW MEXICO United Access Albuquerque 3825 Osuna Rd NE Ste 1 Albuquerque, NM 87109 (877) 501-8267 1,2,3 ____________________________

NEW YORK Bussani Mobility Bethpage 500 Central Ave Bethpage, NY 11714 (516) 938-5207 1, 3 Bussani Mobility Mamaroneck 501 Concord Avenue Mamaroneck, NY 10543 (914) 835-8267 1, 3 Bussani Mobility Team East, LLC 401 E Middle Country Road Smithtown, NY 11787 (631) 240-4128 1

Oct-Dec 2022

13

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS MobilityWorks - Albany 1892 Central Avenue Suite 25 Albany, NY 12205 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Buffalo 3560 Sheridan Drive Amherst, NY 14226 (716) 342-3530 1, 3 Tim’s Trim, Inc. 25 Bermar Park Rochester, NY 14624 (585) 429-6270 1, 2, 3 United Access - Rochester 3760 West Henrietta Rd Rochester, NY 14623 (585) 427-7220 1 United Access - Syracuse 2211 Erie Blvd E Syracuse, NY 13224 (877) 501-8267 1 ____________________________

NORTH CAROLINA Care Solutions 110 B Edney Street Hendersonville, NC 28792 (828) 698-9844 1 Ilderton Conversion of Asheville 735 Dogwood Road Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 670-1111 1, 3 Ilderton Conversion of Charlotte 1424 Archdale Drive Charlotte, NC 28210 (704) 523-2022 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Charlotte 4025 Queen City Drive Charlotte, NC 28208 (704) 399-0900 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Concord 4012 Dearborn Place NW Concord, NC 28027 (704) 886-0868 1

Stalls Medical Inc dba Adaptive Vans Inc 7980 Chapel Hill Road Suite 101 Cary, NC 27513 (919) 233-0732 1 Van Products - Raleigh 2521 Noblin Road Raleigh, NC 27604 (919) 878-7110 1, 3 Van Products - Wilmington 394 N Green Meadow Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 793-5661 1 ________________________

MobilityWorks - Sharonville 11755 Mosteller Rd Sharonville, OH 45241 (513) 791-4000 1,3 MobilityWorks - Toledo 1020 Laskey Road Toledo, OH 43612 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 ____________________________

OKLAHOMA Handicapped Vehicle Services Unlimited 7434 East 46th Street Tulsa, OK 74145 (918) 622-8400 1

OHIO Columbus Mobility Specialists, LLC 6330 Proprietors Rd Suite C Worthington, OH 43085 (614) 825-8996 1, 2, 3 Key Mobility Services 1944 US State Route 68 N Xenia, OH 45385 (937) 374-3226 1 Marietta Mobility Steves Vans & Accessories Unl 221 Pike Street Marietta, OH 45750 (800) 690-4950 1, 2, 3 MobilityWorks - Akron 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Bedford Heights 5040 Richmond Rd. Bedford Heights, OH 44146 (800) 951-6238 1,3 MobilityWorks - Columbus 7233 Industrial Parkway Plain City, OH 43064 (614) 873-1580 1 MobilityWorks - Dayton 214 Valley Street Dayton, OH 45404 (937) 963-0733 1, 3

United Access - Oklahoma City 730 W Hefner Rd Oklahoma City, OK 73114 (877) 501-8267 1, 3 ____________________________

OREGON Ability Center - Eugene 3574 Marcola Road Springfield, OR 97477 (541) 726-4001 1, 3 Ability Center - Portland 9740 SW Wilsonville Road Suite 250 Wilsonville, OR 97070 (971) 224-5895 1, 3 United Access - Portland (East) 12905 NE Airport Way Portland, OR 97230 (877) 501-8267 1, 3 United Access - Portland (West) 5170 NE Five Oaks Dr Hillsboro, OR 97124-5608 (877) 501-8267 1, 2, 3 ____________________________

PENNSYLVANIA Keller Wheelchair Lifts 197 Main Street Luzerne, PA 18709 (570) 288-1004 1, 2, 3 Keystone Coach Works 4786 Library Road Bethel Park, PA 15102 (412) 833-1900 1, 2, 3

14

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

MobilityWorks - Allentown 2200 South 12th St Suite 2210 Allentown, PA 18103 (888) 473-5402 1, 2, 3 MobilityWorks Philadelphia 925 South Trooper Road Norristown, PA 19403 (888) 473-5402 1, 2, 3 MobilityWorks - Pittsburgh 1012 Seco Road Monroeville, PA 15146 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Robinson Township 5460 Campbells Run Rd Suite 100 Robinson Township, PA 15205 (412) 799-6929 1, 3 Palmiero Mobility 16165 Conneaut Lake Road Meadville, PA 16335 (814) 336-1061 1 Steffy’s Garage Inc dba SGI Mobility 235 W Main Street Leola, PA 17540 (717) 656-6065 1, 3 Team Toyota of Glen Mills 1050 Baltimore Pike Glen Mills, PA 19342-1013 (610) 808-9257 1, 3 Total Mobility Services Inc Boswell 4785 Penn Avenue PO Box 7 Boswell, PA 15531 (814) 629-9935 1, 2, 3 Total Mobility Services Inc Harrisburg 7917 Derry Street Suite 124 Harrisburg, PA 17111 (800) 558-7408 1, 3 ____________________________

1 = Mobility Equipment Installer 2 = Structural Vehicle Modifier 3 = High Tech Driving Systems Installer

PUERTO RICO All Mobility Puerto Rico, Inc. HC 3 Box 9057 Guaynabo, PR 00971 (787) 398-3444 1 Equipos Pro Impedidos De P.R., Inc. Carr #1 Int R796 Km 10.4 Bo. Bairoa La 25 Caguas, PR 00725 (787) 746-7667 1,3 ____________________________

SOUTH CAROLINA Ilderton Conversion of Charleston LLC 8550 Rivers Avenue North Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 576-0414 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Columbia 3624 Fernandina Road Columbia, SC 29210 (803) 828-5754 1 MobilityWorks - Greenville 563 Woodruff Road Greenville, SC 29607 (864) 293-7171 1 MobilityWorks - Murrells Inlet 11816 Highway 17 Bypass Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 (843) 268-4850 1, 3 ____________________________

SOUTH DAKOTA MobilityWorks - Tea 200 1st Street Tea, SD 57064 (605) 498-2200 1, 3 ____________________________

TENNESSEE Apple Independence Mobility 1750 Lee Seminary Road Cookeville, TN 38506 (877) 528-5788 1 MobilityWorks Chattanooga 3614 Elwood Ln Chattanooga, TN 374161769 (423) 308-8267 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Gallatin 1015 S Water Avenue Gallatin, TN 37066 (651) 451-7373 1 MobilityWorks - Nashville 173 Industrial Drive Lavergne, TN 37086 (615) 280-5058 1, 3 Superior Van & Mobility Knoxville 10640 Braden Dickey Lane Knoxville, TN 37932 (865) 622-6550 1, 3 United Access - Memphis 2165 Hillshire Cir Memphis, TN 38133 (877) 501-8267 1, 3 ____________________________

TEXAS Access2Mobility, Inc. 12406 State Highway 155 South Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 592-6760 1, 3 American Lift Aids Beaumont 2310 Calder Ave Beaumont, TX 77702 (409) 832-3400 1, 2, 3 American Lift Aids, Inc. Tyler 2407 W Southwest Loop 323 Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 581-8844 1, 2, 3 Andy’s Mobility & Lift Services 1502 Santa Ursula Laredo, TX 78040 (956) 722-7371 1 Lift Aids Inc 1500 Westpark Way Euless, TX 76040 (817) 835-0035 1, 2, 3 MobilityWorks - Austin 239 Commercial Drive Buda, TX 78610 (512) 295-3800 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Dallas 4150 Interstate 30 Mesquite, TX 75150 (972) 270-7114 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Fort Worth 2110 N Beach Ft Worth, TX 76111 (866) 211-8267 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Houston 3327 S Sam Houston Pkwy Suite 300 Houston, TX 77047 (346) 226-6999 1 MobilityWorks - San Antonio 6473 DeZavala Road San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 697-8884 1, 2, 3 MobilityWorks - Selma 16262 IH 35 North Selma, TX 78154 (210) 718-0055 1, 3 MobilityWorks - Waco 4980 S Loop 340 Robinson, TX 76706-4640 (254) 754-2700 1 Open Road Mobility Amarillo 6669 Canyon Drive Amarillo, TX 79110 (806) 353-2747 1 Open Road Mobility Lubbock 7411 82nd Street Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 771-5873 1, 2, 3, 4 Texas Mobility Services, LLC dba Texas Adaptive Aids 701 Bearcat Road Unit B Aledo, TX 76087 (817) 394-3914 1, 3 United Access - Arlington 2430 E Randol Mill Rd Arlington, TX 76011-6335 (817) 402-0069 1, 3 United Access - Austin 15301 Interstate 35 Ste A Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 436-0820 1, 3 United Access - College Station 2214 N Earl Rudder Fwy Bryan, TX 77808 (979) 307-7676 1, 3

United Access - Corpus Christi 2201 Gollihar Road Corpus Christi, TX 78415 (361) 852-0922 1 United Access - Dallas (East) 2704 Lawing Ln 300 Rowlett, TX 75088 (877) 501-8267 1, 2, 3 United Access - Dallas (North) 2109 Luna Rd Ste 200 Carrollton, TX 75006 (877) 501-8267 1, 3 United Access - El Paso 8736 Gateway East Blvd Suite B El Paso, TX 79907 (915) 585-0775 1 United Access - Houston 6836 N Sam Houston Pkwy W Houston, TX 77064 (713) 874-9100 1, 2, 3 United Access - McAllen 120 North 20th Street McAllen, TX 78501 (956) 971-0001 1 United Access - Pasadena 3430 E Sam Houston Pkwy S Pasadena, TX 77505 (281) 487-1969 1, 2, 3 ____________________________

VERMONT MobilityWorks - Essex Junction 5C David Drive Essex Junction, VT 05452 (802) 878-8640 1,3 ____________________________

VIRGINIA Driver Rehabilitation Center of Excellence d/b/a DRCE Mobility Solutions 14101 Parke Long Court Suite E Chantilly, VA 20151 (703) 345-2990 1, 3 Independent Lifestyles 4880 South Amherst Hwy Madison Heights, VA 24572 (434) 846-7510 1

Oct-Dec 2022

15

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS MITS of VA 2075 W Main Street Waynesboro, VA 22980 (540) 932-7300 1

Absolute Mobility Center 21704 87th Ave SE Woodinville, WA 98072 (425) 481-6546 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Eau Claire 3115 Oak Knoll Dr Eau Claire, WI 54701-8485 (715) 495-1310 1, 3

Mobility Plus Inc of Virginia 763 Union Street Salem, VA 24153 (540) 389-3400 1, 3

Goldenwest Mobility 1815 E Francis Ave Spokane, WA 99208 (509) 484-3842 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Green Bay 844 Ontario Road Green Bay, WI 54311 (920) 491-8384 1, 3

MobilityWorks - Alexandria 5751 General Washington Drive Alexandria, VA 22312 (571) 421-2647 1 MobilityWorks - Norfolk 6059 Virginia Beach Blvd Norfolk, VA 23502 (757) 455-9889 1, 3

____________________________

WEST VIRGINIA Total Mobility Services Inc Hurricane 146 Stricklin Rd Hurricane, WV 25526-6734 (304) 727-9478 1, 3 ____________________________

WISCONSIN MobilityWorks - North Chesterfield 7450 Midlothian Turnpike North Chesterfield, VA 23225 (804) 220-0611 1, 3

A & J Mobility - De Pere 1330 Mid Valley Drive De Pere, WI 54115 (920) 632-4882 1, 3

Priority Honda Hampton dba Priority Mobility 4115 W Mercury Blvd.

Hampton, VA 23666 (757) 838-1252 1

A & J Mobility - Eau Claire 2650 Prospect Drive Eau Claire, WI 54703 (715) 874-6630 1, 3

____________________________

A & J Mobility - McFarland 4125 Terminal Drive McFarland, WI 53558 (608) 579-1500 1, 3

WASHINGTON Ability Center - Everett 7202 Evergreen Way Everett, WA 98203 (425) 353-6563 1,3 Ability Center - Redmond 14640 NE 91st Street Suite A Redmond, WA 98052 (425) 406-8484 1 Ability Center - Sumner 6015 160th Avenue East Sumner, WA 98390 (253) 863-4744 1, 2, 3

16

A & J Mobility - Richfield 3058 Helsan Drive Richfield, WI 53076 (800) 517-1024 1, 3 A & J Mobility - Valders 333 Washington Street Valders, WI 54245 (920) 775-9333 1, 2, 3

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

MobilityWorks - Sun Prairie 222 Linnerud Drive Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 395-2350 1 MobilityWorks - Waukesha N8 W22195 Johnson Drive Ste 130 Waukesha, WI 53186 (888) 473-5402 1, 3 ______________________

1 = Mobility Equipment Installer 2 = Structural Vehicle Modifier 3 = High Tech Driving Systems Installer

CANADA

ONTARIO

QUEBEC

Conval-Aid/Liftability 2600 Lancaster Road Ottawa, ON K1B 4Z4 (613) 738-2721 1

Adaptation 04 Inc 3025 rue Girard Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 2M4 (819) 372-0102 1, 3

Courtland Mobility 1355 Artisans Court Unit B Burlington, ON L7L 5Y2 (800) 354-8138 1, 2, 3

Centre d Autonomie 399 Ave De La Friche Dolbeau Mistassini, QC G8L 2T3 (418) 276-8336 1, 3

Goldline Mobility & Conversions 762 Industrial Road London, ON N5V 3N7 (519) 453-0480 1, 2, 3

Centre de L’auto St-Lambert 145 Damase Breton St-Lambert de Lauzon, QC G0S 2W0 (866) 641-0419 1, 3

____________________________

ALBERTA ECO Medical 18303 107 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5S 1K4 (780) 483-6232 1, 3 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. - Calgary 4216 54 Avenue SE Unit 60 Calgary, AB T2C 2E3 (403) 243-6300 1, 3 ____________________________

BRITISH COLUMBIA Alliance Mobility Solutions - Kelowna 1075 McCurdy Road Kelowna, BC V1X 2P9 (236) 420-1400 1, 3 Alliance Mobility Solutions - Richmond 12211 Vulcan Way #110 Richmond, BC V6V 1J7 (604) 370-7004 1, 3 Island Mobility - Victoria 750 Enterprise Crescent Victoria, BC V8Z 6R4 (855) 593-0959 1, 3 Medichair Northern BC 849 2nd Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3A6 (250) 562-8280 1 Sidewinder Conversions & Mobility Ltd. 44658 Yale Road West Chilliwack, BC V2R 0G5 (604) 792-2082 1, 2, 3 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. - Maple Ridge 11393 Kingston St. Unit 4 Maple Ridge, BC V2X 0Y7 (877) 215-7609 1

Northend Mobility 301 Aqueduct Street Welland, ON L3C 1C9 (905) 735-5552 1, 2 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. London 2028 Dundas Street London, ON N5V 1R2 (844) 799-5464 1 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. Ottowa 5300 Canotek Road Unit 42 Ottawa, ON K1J 1A4 (613) 290-5279 1 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. Toronto 14 Goodmark Place Etobicoke, ON M9W 6R1 (844) 799-5464 1 Silver Cross Automotive Inc. Waterloo 675A Davenport Road Waterloo, ON N2V 2E2 (844) 799-5464 1, 2, 3 ____________________________

Eureka Solutions - Levis 107-829 J-Ambroise Craig Levis, QC G7A 2N2 (866) 562-2555 1 Eureka Solutions - Longueuil 2755 Montee St Hubert Longueuil, QC J3Y 4H6 (866) 562-2555 1, 3 Eureka Solutions - Sherbrooke 5018 Industrial Blvd Sherbrooke, QC J1R 0P4 (866) 562-2555 1, 3 SMVR 2 Visions Inc 414 Blvd St Germain Ouest Rimouski, QC G5L 3N4 (418) 723-9225 1, 3 TVR Technologies, Inc. 20 Rue des Metiers Lavaltrie, QC J5T 0H4 (888) 919-2555 1,3 Van Action 2005 Inc. 4350 Autoroute 13 Laval, QC H7R 6E9 (800) 668-8705 1,2,3

____________________________

Oct-Dec 2022

17

IN MEMORIAM

Congresswoman Jackie Walorski

By Amy Schoppman DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & PUBLIC POLICY

MEDA previously shared

with her to the Capitol, inquiring

addressing veterans’ policy issues,

the sad news that

about NMEDA and the auto mobility

was generous with her time, and

Congresswoman Jackie

industry. Her face genuinely lit up as

possessed an increasingly rare

Walorski, lead sponsor of the

the conversation progressed. It was

bipartisan spirit. She was a personal

Veterans Mobility Safety Act (VMSA)

one of those magical DC occurrences

favorite of mine, and I will especially

of 2015 and NMEDA friend, was

and, approximately 10 minutes later,

remember her disposition—one

tragically killed in an automobile

Jackie Walorski had committed to

that managed to be no-nonsense

accident on August 3. During her

being the lead sponsor of what would

yet still compassionate. The impact

funeral, House Minority Leader Kevin

become the Veterans Mobility Safety

her congressional work had on the

McCarthy remarked that “Jackie

Act (which itself eventually became

auto mobility industry will be felt

doesn’t just light up a room, she

public law). With another scheduled

for years to come via VMSA, which

runs the room.” Having known the

meeting approaching, we regretfully

was specifically referenced in the

Congresswoman since 2015, I couldn’t

had to decline her generous offer to

House Resolution honoring and

agree more with his reflection.

give us an informal tour of the House

celebrating her life and legacy. The

Chamber.

NMEDA family’s thoughts remain with

Walorski was a spontaneous one: a

There’s not much I can say that hasn’t

the Congresswoman’s family, staff,

group of NMEDA members were in

already been said—Congresswoman

colleagues, and constituents.

Washington, DC, to meet with several

Walorski had a vibrant presence, a

---

potential sponsors of a bill to establish

fascinating professional background,

vendor selection criteria for VA’s

a non-performative commitment to

N

My first meeting with Congresswoman

Auto Adaptive Equipment program.

As we approached her office for our scheduled meeting with staff, I noticed that the Congresswoman herself had emerged and was briskly headed toward the Capitol for votes. I recall telling Sam Cook who she was, and asking him to approach her with his thickest “midwestern” accent. He thankfully did, and once the entire group had been introduced, the Congresswoman—who easily could’ve said “nice to meet you, I hope you enjoy your discussion with my staff”— enthusiastically invited us to walk

18

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

Congresswoman Walorski with former speaker of the house, Paul Ryan, at the 2015 VMSA signing.

CEO’S MESSAGE

Building a Foundation

By Danny Langfield NMEDA CEO

H

appy Fall, everyone. Let me

significant step forward in the growth

or political action committees.

go ahead and get off topic

and maturation of NMEDA as an

Accordingly, a c3 organization is

immediately by saying, WOW

association.

perceived very differently than a

– what a conference. If you have not already, please take a moment and have a look at the conference recap and photos starting on page 34. If Columbus in January hinted at what the Colo might be, October in Charlotte delivered on that promise.

Those of you somewhat familiar with the association world may know

exhibitors, the best education anywhere…it was awesome. It really is something special when the entire auto mobility industry family comes together at the same time in the same place. Conference Director Amy Lane and the rest of us are already plotting to grow and improve the show for ’23 (September 30-October 2 in Kansas City), and I certainly hope you will make plans to be there.

academic and other nonprofit entities.

that it is common for an established,

The formation of a c3 is therefore

well-regarded c6 association to

often intended to create a true,

form a related c3 organization

arm’s-length distance between the

for educational, research and/or

advocacy efforts of the mothership

charitable purposes. I will not drag

and other, unrelated activities in which

The best operators from both NMEDA and ADED, the most progressive

c6, especially among governmental,

the industry would like to engage. In

“

Those of you somewhat familiar with the association world may know that it is common for an established, well-regarded c6 association to form a related c3 organization for educational, research and/or charitable purposes.”

you into the minutia of non-profit IRS

the auto mobility industry’s case, we

On to the topic at hand…several big

tax classifications (you’re welcome!);

are very desirous of aggregating and

ideas were bandied about at the

suffice it to say that a c6 classification

reporting meaningful industry data;

Board’s strategic planning session

allows a nonprofit to unapologetically

not just for our own membership, but

in April—but not all of them made

represent and advocate for the

for our key stakeholders including

it into the final plan, of course. One

best interests of the trade or group

state vocational rehabs, the VA and

major new initiative that did make

for whom it was formed, with the

any number of partner organizations

the cut was the formation of a 501c3

key provision being that a c6 may

in the allied health, academic, and

nonprofit research foundation. This

(and almost always does) engage in

regulatory arenas, among others.

foundation will be controlled by,

lobbying activities on behalf of its

The groundwork for such an

although legally separate from, its

industry. Conversely, a c3 is prohibited

undertaking has been well

501c6 nonprofit parent organization,

from engaging in most traditional

underway for some time. NMEDA’s

NMEDA. Let me tell you why this is a

lobbying activities, including the

move to require all QAP jobs to

contribution of funds to candidates

Oct-Dec 2022

19

foundation (organizational formation,

an accurate, high-level summary of

board of directors, bylaws, mission,

auto mobility activity.

and strategic plan) and to conduct due diligence on vendor partners who can assist with the aggregation, organization, and eventual reporting of our data. The foundation will have two main audiences; one internal, one external.

in ensuring that the information previously collected on label reporting forms can now be efficiently aggregated. (Quick side note – QAPx does not require the dealer to report

benchmarks, similar to what is already available today in our Business Intelligence Portal for those dealers who participated in our Auto Mobility Price Survey (not sure what I mean?

Contact me or Amy Schoppman, we will fill you in).

one iota more job data than the label

Our external audience will be all

reporting form did. It just moves the

other stakeholders. These individuals

collection and submission of that data

and entities will not have access to

from the analog to the digital.)

the dynamic, individualized, custom

QAPx world for NMEDA dealers. 2023 will therefore be our first full year of complete job data collection from 100% of QAP accredited locations.

We will also use next year to build out the infrastructure of our c3 research

20

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

projects. But like they say, you gotta crawl before you can walk, and walk before you can run. That said, the coming together nicely.

“

(sometimes painful) transition into the

and ever-more-ambitious research

QAP dealers. All dealers will be able

All dealers will be able to measure an individual store’s job data against aggregated industry benchmarks, similar to what is already available today in our Business Intelligence Portal for those dealers who participated in our Auto Mobility Price Survey...”

So, what’s next? Well, 2022 has been a

day encompass educational initiatives

foundation for our foundation is

data against aggregated industry

or Docutrack was the first step

will no doubt broaden its goals to one

The internal audience will be our to measure an individual store’s job

be administered via either QAPx

In the years to come, the foundation

reporting that our QAP dealers will, of course. However, the initial primary goal of our foundation will be to issue an, “Auto Mobility State of the Industry” annual report, starting in Q2 of 2024, featuring aggregated industry data. The foundation’s report will aspire to provide, for the first time,

---

Since February 1, 2022, QAP Rules have required all jobs to be submitted via either QAPx or Docutrack. In 2023, locations that fail to comply will be suspended.

Don’t let this happen at your store! Got questions, or need a little help? Contact NMEDA at 813.264.2697 or qap@nmeda.org andOct-Dec we’ll be glad2022 to assist. 21

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS REPORT

NMEDA’s Auto Mobility Price Survey: WHY?

By Amy Schoppman DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & PUBLIC POLICY

hose familiar with Mr. Show,

T

government plan that involved using

recognized that the survey results

a 1990’s-era surreal sketch

a nuclear bomb to detonate the

could be analyzed by dealer members

comedy series featuring

moon in an effort to intimidate the

to make individual business decisions

then-unknown Bob Odenkirk and

Soviet Union during the Cold War

regarding their offerings, both

David Cross, will likely remember

and (2) I consider “why?” a criminally

regionally and nationally.

the “Blow Up the Moon” sketch. For

underutilized question. It’s a question

In the nearly 20 years since the first

those unfamiliar, the premise was

people oftentimes seem reluctant to

price survey was conducted, NMEDA

both simple and absurd: America

ask, or don’t bother to ask at all, and

has established itself as the premier

possessed the technology to blow up

I’ve gotten the sense that members

resource for external stakeholders

the moon, so NASA decided to go

may not fully understand the “whys”

seeking auto mobility industry data.

ahead and do just that on July 4th

of the historical price survey—why

Government partners such as VA

(which happened to occur during a

we conduct it, why we recently

and state Vocational Rehabilitation

full moon, ensuring that they would

overhauled it, why it matters, and

Agencies prefer to make data-driven

“get it all”). Politicians, citizens,

why dealers should participate. So, in

decisions, and if they can’t rely on

and astronauts alike were ecstatic,

honor of Galileo, I am dedicating this

NMEDA to provide that data, they will

and Americans coast to coast were

article to answering the WHYs that

seek it elsewhere.

planning viewing parties and baking

may be surrounding NMEDA’s Auto

celebratory cakes in anticipation of

Mobility Price Survey (AMPS).

WHY did NMEDA overhaul the price survey last year?

WHY does NMEDA conduct a price survey?

NMEDA expanded and digitized the

America blowing up the moon. Yet as Exploder I was being loaded with enough dynamite and nuclear charges to blow up the moon 50 times over, a news crew filmed Galileo—the monkey who was designated to push the launch button—using sign language during a televised interview to ask one of the astronauts, “Why? Why are we blowing up the moon?” Chaos erupts, monkey backlash ensues, Galileo is ultimately replaced by a circus monkey that can’t ask questions, and America moves forward with blowing up the moon.

This sketch has been on my mind for two reasons: (1) I recently learned that the U.S. did, in fact, draft a secret

22

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

survey for several reasons:

Since 2006, NMEDA has surveyed dealer members on historical product prices for two foundational reasons.

First, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was seeking guidance on UCR – that’s “usual, customary, and reasonable”—prices for auto mobility equipment. Knowing that NMEDA was the most sensible source

Technology. The survey was traditionally mailed to dealers for completion by hand, and responses were then submitted by fax. In an effort to stop tormenting our members, we established an online data entry portal to modernize the survey completion process.

for this information (and knowing

Efficiency. The online data entry

that VA would likely approach less

portal permits dealers to import a

reliable sources or invent their

previous year’s data, which translates

own UCR pricing), the price survey

to less time spent looking up and

was born. In addition to providing

entering price points for every survey.

requested information to an important

Anonymity. Given the sensitivity of

government partner, NMEDA also

the data being collected, a third party

results by adjusting multiple variables;

with expertise in association surveys

generate detailed and customized

and data analysis was selected to

pricing reports; and access additional

serve as the collector, tabulator, and

business tools that can boost

reporter of all pricing data submitted

competitive intelligence. The AMPS

in response to the survey. Not even

platform is a one-stop shop for dealer

NMEDA staff can access or view an

members to access, evaluate, and

individual dealer’s entries, and all

compare the latest industry pricing

data is stored in a secure SQL Server

data. The ability to view and analyze

database managed by our survey

the most thorough pricing snapshot

partner.

Accuracy. Much has changed in the auto mobility industry since the survey’s inception in the mid-2000s, so we updated the survey’s categories and terminology to reflect the current product landscape.

WHY should I participate in the price survey?

VA and VRs rely on the results to

Survey” folder 5. Download the desired report(s)** All dealer members in good standing are sent an email invitation when the survey launches (typically around April 1). Once a username and password are established, dealers have several months to complete data entry, and those completing 100% will

“

As they say in DC: if you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. Given the relative ease of first year data entry, there’s no longer a (good) reason to sit out the survey and passively allow your competitors to influence the results.”

establish payment parameters for auto mobility equipment. If you do

of the auto mobility industry is now a

not contribute to the data pool,

free NMEDA member benefit, and the

third-party payers will essentially be

AMPS platform is a valuable tool that

making reimbursement decisions

can help members of all sizes make

without your input. As they say in DC:

more informed decisions.

first year data entry, there’s no longer a (good) reason to sit out the survey and passively allow your competitors

WHY don’t you just tell me how to access the latest reports and participate in future price surveys?

I was saving the best for last…

to influence the results.

Members can access, review, and Speaking of competitors, a primary reason NMEDA shifted to the online AMPS platform was so that we could

download the most recent (2021) AMPS reports through the NMEDA Member Portal:

provide members with actionable business intelligence. An exclusive

1. Log in to the portal and select

benefit available to dealers that

your individual profile (not your

complete the survey is benchmarking

organization profile) if prompted

functionality: log in to your AMPS account—whenever, wherever—and you will have the ability to compare

functionality once all data is tabulated and the reports are finalized (typically in September). It’s so easy, even Galileo could do it.

Questions? Comments? Thoughts

if you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. Given the relative ease of

gain access to online benchmarking

on blowing up the moon? Contact PriceSurvey@nmeda.org. ** NMEDA issues several versions of the price report annually. The “General” report presents the survey results (which encompass 106 individual equipment items grouped into eight categories) as well as an overview of survey methodology and respondent demographics.

The VA- and Vocational Rehabilitation-specific versions of the report include the above plus customized introductions tailored for delivery to our government partners at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies, respectively.

2. Click on the member avatar in the top right corner of your screen 3. Select “My Digital Library”

your dealership’s data against the industry as a whole; filter survey

4. Select the “Auto Mobility Price

Oct-Dec 2022

23

CANADA OFFICER’S MESSAGE

Review of 2022 Time to Reflect, Celebrate & Plan

By Tamalea Stone — Ottawa Hospital VICE PRESIDENT, NMEDA CANADA

s I sit here on Thanksgiving

A

momentum and growth with the

for the first in-person event in two

Day, watching the leaves fall

renewed commitment of Darlene

years. There were clear objectives

and reflecting on the past

Nargang as Special Advisor as well as

related to this event: establish a

year, I recognize that this association

the returning officers who continue

connection with funding body ICBC

has a lot to be thankful for, including

to serve. With a robust and motivated

(Insurance Corporation of British

celebrating some significant

board, we laid out an ambitious

Columbia), identify and meet with

milestone achievements.

strategic plan to make 2022 the best

value targets at Veterans Affairs

year ever!

Canada and maintain synergies with

When I look forward to the planned initiatives for the remainder of 2022 and into 2023 I am reminded of a quote: “Before you look at your future, reflect on your past.” - Sam Ade When I was asked to write this Officer’s Message, I considered not only this year but reflected on the past six years I have been on the

“

At the beginning of the year, the Board examined its priorities through development of the Strategic Plan, with the goal of establishing NMEDA Canada as “the” resource to safe and reliable mobility equipment and transportation.”

NMEDA Canada Board and noted how my role and the association has

At the beginning of the year, the

our key partner (CAOT) to reinforce

evolved over time. This reflection

Board examined its priorities through

who we are and how we represent the

happens as I ponder the end of my

development of the Strategic Plan,

industry.

term in December after proudly

with the goal of establishing NMEDA

The result: face-to-face meeting with

representing members on the board

Canada as “the” resource to safe

OT case managers at Veteran Affairs

as Member at Large, Associate

and reliable mobility equipment and

Canada, a meeting with Nathan Acker

Member, and finally as Vice President.

transportation. In line with this goal,

of ICBC and two of his representatives

The beginning of this year saw a

identifying and creating synergies

which led to a follow-up meeting

changing of the guard so to speak

with key mobility partners and

between NMEDA dealer, Craig

where veteran Russ Newton returned

funders was a top priority.

Tshritter and 12 individuals at the

to the position of President, Serge

In May, four representatives from

Richmond Alliance Mobility store to

Lavallee renewed as Treasurer and

the board attended the Canadian

review procedures and discuss ICBC’s

Lars Taylor, OT, CDRS was introduced

Association of Occupational

transportation needs. Craig played

as the Professional/Associate board

Therapists (CAOT) National

an instrumental role in facilitating

member. We recognized continued

Conference in Whistler, BC, excited

WorkSafe BC, the organization for

24

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

workers’ compensation in British

Ontario. Russ Newton and several

Columbia, to become a NMEDA QAP

other parties conversed with WSIB

convert.

in the Spring of 2022 regarding the

This step to have NMEDA members as identified and preferred providers with funding agencies remained a priority. In July 2022, it will have been four years since SAAQ (La Société de l’Assurance Automobile du Québec) made a pivotal announcement which related to QAP and NMEDA. Among

contracting process of providers for the vehicle modification services provided to these clients.

The conversation continues as we continue to strive to make gains with key stakeholders with the mission to always create opportunities and value for our members.

other roles, SAAQ in Quebec manages

In October, we celebrated and

the Program on the Adaptation

congratulated three deserving

of Road Vehicles for Persons with

Canadians who were recognized

Disabilities for the local Department

at the co-located ADED/NMEDA

of Transportation (ministère des

conference in Charlotte, North

Transports, de la Mobilité durable et

Carolina. Dane Millar of Howell

de l’Électrification des transports). It

Ventures was awarded the ADED

is under this role that they are funding

Research and Applied Engineering

vehicle adaptations for Quebec

Award while Jacques Bolduc of SRD

residents.

Bolduc, Inc was inducted into the

SAAQ came to understand and see value in the QAP proposition to qualify suppliers of services related to adaptation work. Being a funder and

Dane Millar and Wendy Nieuwland with their awards following the ADED Banquet at the 2022 Colo.

NMEDA Hall of Fame and finally,

association, disseminate information

therapy partner, Wendy Nieuwland

to our associates and dealers

was presented with an ADED Lifetime

and create marketing avenues.

Honorary Membership Award.

Additionally, Aaron Andre, NMEDA

a code enforcer, SAAQ appreciated the value of the Quality Assurance Program, the higher standards that NMEDA members adhere to, and specifically, the independent audits taking place under this program.

SAAQ set the standard in Canada of

“

We also recently established a social media presence with the creation of a Canadian Facebook page.”

what we wanted to see in the other In keeping with our strategic initiative

dealer and Darin Ashby, set up

to maintain member outreach and

Dealer Open Forum meetings where

support, we launched the revised

NMEDA, acting as facilitator, connects

bilingual NMEDA Canada website

members for networking and

www.nmedacanada.ca with features

discussion of relevant key issues.

such as a provincial dealer locator

The last quarter of the year will

and funding options by jurisdiction.

see some significant activity. On

We also recently established a social

November 3, Russ and I will attend

media presence with the creation of

CCMTA (Canadian Council of Motor

our own Facebook page: After inroads with ICBC, our focus

Transport Administrators) Fall

www.facebook.com/NMEDACanada,

shifted to influencing WSIB, the

Program Committee Meeting in

where we can share achievements,

Worker’s Safety Insurance Board of

Ottawa to address key stakeholders

promote advantages to join our

jurisdictions, that NMEDA members are the sole source providers of all work related to vehicle adaptations, reflecting the value provided by NMEDA to the industry in general.

This situation is what we aimed to achieve with these approaches with other funding organizations over the past year.

Oct-Dec 2022

25

CANADA OFFICER’S MESSAGE

(continued)

and leaders involved in the

and requested that we consider

We are continuing to evolve and

administration, regulation and control

exhibiting at their conference.

change, like the seasons, which is

Looking forward to 2023, we have

essential for growth. I am confident in

many initiatives planned, one being

the direction of the association going

the return to the annual CAOT

forward and I am grateful for the

conference, located in Saskatoon,

opportunity to serve in this role, to

to present a pre-conference CAMS-

reflect and learn about what worked

Russ will continue onto Toronto

HP workshop, with our local dealer

and did not work, to foster learning

where he will meet up with therapy

members available for the educational

and move toward a clearer vision

partner, Wendy Nieuwland, OT, CDRS

“hands-on” component. This situation

for what we want to achieve as an

as anchors of the exhibit booth at

in addition to hosting an exhibit

association and for our members.

the Ontario Society of Occupational

booth, allows maximum exposure

We want and look forward to this

Therapists (OSOT) annual conference.

to our therapy partners as CAOT

evolution and change for “If you

They will be joined by Tom Lancaster

membership is 12,000+ strong. We

always do what you’ve always done,

of Courtland Mobility on the Friday

will renew our ties with CIMVHR

you’ll always be where you’ve always

evening, the grand opening of the

(Canadian Institute for Military and

been.”

expo, to extol the virtues of NMEDA.

Veteran Health Research) and attend

This opportunity stemmed from the

their annual conference. And, we will

connection made at CAOT when the

look to other partners to develop

executive director of OSOT stopped

meaningful relationships with the aim

by the booth in response to hearing

to provide tangible outcomes for our

NMEDA’s opening ceremony speech

valued members.

of motor vehicle transportation and highway safety across the country.

Present will be government members and organizations with a vested interest in road safety.

- T. D. Jakes.

Here’s to 2023…bring it on…we’re ready!

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Get Social with NMEDA

26

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

MEMBER NOTICE

2023 Board Elections: Get Ready to Vote Nominations for the 2023 NMEDA board of directors have closed, so that means it’s almost time to cast your vote! Eligible members will receive an email in early December with a link to the election ballot.

Elections close December 31, so vote early so you don’t forget amidst the holiday bustle!

So, who’s on the ballot? See below!

VICE PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Dan Walsh Bussani Mobility

Eric Mansfield MobilityWorks

REPRESENTATIVE AT LARGE 1

REPRESENTATIVE AT LARGE 2

Trevorr Jurgensen MobilityWorks

Christina Duggan The Creative Mobility Group

EDUCATION/GOVERNMENT/ NON-PROFIT REPRESENTATIVE

ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Michelle Szumski Texas Workforce CommissionVocational Rehabilitation

Eva Richardville Therapeutic Mobility Services

OR

Ron Mohr Clock Mobility

COMPONENT MANUFACTURER REPRESENTATIVE Steve Dawson Harmar Oct-Dec 2022

27

EDUCATION & TRAINING REPORT

Helping You Invest in Tech Talent

by Amy Lane DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, TRAINING & CONFERENCE

hat an amazing

W

Vocational Rehab VIP attendees

“The importance of the service

conference! Hurricane

were provided with a customized

department within mobility

Ian did it’s best to

schedule, including education

dealerships has increased drastically

interfere (in both Tampa and

sessions to support and meet

over the last year. While it’s always

then again in Charlotte), but our

their specific needs.

been a vital part of the business,

members persevered! Feedback from those who attended has been overwhelmingly positive. The NMEDA Annual Conference & Auto Mobility Expo, co-located with ADED, was the perfect setting to reconnect with old friends and business acquaintances, learn something new, and network

•

Over the conference weekend, technicians had the option of attending the two-day BraunAbility MSE training or VMI’s two-day Technician Training. And all technicians could register and attend the half-day EVO seat training session.

something for everyone, regardless of their role in our industry. Our conference mobile app (yes there’s an app for that), listed all the events and details for the attendees. Some of the educational highlights included: •

The dealer education learning track included a total of twelve different educational sessions, all were highly ranked and wellreceived.

•

•

improvement. Post-conference discussions and attendee feedback is currently under review, with consideration of improvements to our conference education programs, including enhanced training for technician/service departments.

28

burden in sending technicians to educational events is understandable, the advantages to invest in technician talent and education is just as relevant. In fact, that was

Course was offered this year.

an underlying theme in the dealer

All conference attendees were

learning tracks throughout conference

invited to attend our new Industry

and was discussed in recent

Roundtable Discussions, which

Education & Training committee

turned out to be one of the

meetings. I asked committee member

highpoints of the conference.

Nicole Bryson of FT Mobility in Saddle

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

the cost of doing business. Selling a more expensive product comes with a different level of expectation from the buyer, and dealers are the ones

The need for strong, educated auto mobility technicians has been a constant for the entire existence of the industry. Often overlooked, undervalued, and considered only as a tool to assist the sales department in the delivery of vehicles, the service department rarely gets the attention and investment it needs to succeed.

A special full-day Sales Masters

Thanks to Amy Schoppman, the

manufacturing and the drastic rise in

While the challenges and financial

Brook, NJ, to share some of her •

combination of quality challenges in

Even with a successful conference, there are always areas for continued

The Annual Conference had a little

with dramatic challenges due to the

expected to meet those expectations.

with key members of the automobility industry.

more recently dealers are faced

thoughts on the topic below:

The push to invest in the shop has been recognized and explored over the years. For example, BraunAbility deployed Service Performance projects in the past to better evaluate and strengthen their dealer network.

The initiative was always bounded by the lost profits or creating an additional stream of revenue specifically from Service. And now?

It’s a matter of survival. Without a solid service department, whether you have 100 stores or one, without

a doubt, operating a business will

complexity without the structure in

NMEDA is committed to supporting

be very difficult. Consumers deserve

place to manage this. You cannot

technician’s education and willing

better, there are no other drivers or

expect clients to buy from you in five

to explore the development of

passengers on the road that need

years if they aren’t satisfied with your

additional technician training. Will the

service support more than ours. This is

product or your support. The cost of

investment in technician education

simply the core of our business model.

doing that right is tremendous, you’ll

and training equate to an overall

“We are an automotive dealership for people with disabilities.” -Tim Hargis

get burned more times than you

improvement in the customer’s

can count. The only way to stop the

service department experience? Let

bleeding is to invest in the assembly

us know your thoughts and opinions.

(from Dan Walsh’s presentation at conference)

of your most valuable component:

We are interested in hearing from our

your service department.”

members, especially as we plan for

Regardless of the marketing influences used to get clients through

The current education and training

the door or how many units your sales

opportunities offered by NMEDA,

consultant delivers, customers will not

along with our industry leading

return if not offered a well-functioning

manufacturers, are a great start. These

product and the post-sales support, all

are offered online, at conference, and

reasonable expectations for the price

throughout the year, and provide the

they pay. Furthermore, one cannot

basic foundations for technicians in

keep up with the increase in product

our industry.

our 2023 conference in Kansas City!

---

NMEDA Technician Training Opportunities NMEDA Certified Technician (NCT) Coursework These newly revised and modernized education modules are published and can be accessed at www.nmeda.org/nctprogram.

The modules include Electrical Training Part I, Electrical Training Part II, The Quality Assurance Program (QAP), Make Inoperative, Fasteners and Shop Safety. Successful completion of this coursework grants the individual the NCT certification, a requirement for a QAP dealer.

Manufacturer Service School (MSS) These service schools, offered throughout the year, provide the opportunity to obtain multiple manufacturer certifications over the course of a few days. It is a great investment in the technician’s training as they obtain hands-on experiences and interact directly with the manufacturer representatives. See www.nmeda.org/mss for upcoming sessions and registration information.

Oct-Dec 2022

29

MEMBER NOTICE

New Leadership Scott NelsonBraunAbility Intro by Megan Wegner SENIOR BRAND MANAGER, BRAUNABILITY Although Scott Nelson just joined BraunAbility in February of 2022, he’s in familiar territory. That’s because the new President of North American Manufacturing has spent much of his career leading manufacturing companies that mirror BraunAbility in many ways, specifically a distribution channel of independent dealers. Nelson also comes from a small town, so he feels comfortable working in Winamac, IN (pop. 1500) home to the company’s global manufacturing headquarters.

Most importantly, it’s the sense of purpose Nelson recognizes in his new role. As the father of an adult son with special needs, he understands the importance of not just accessibility—but reliable accessibility—to individuals and families. His role as caregiver informs his role as president each day, specifically when it comes to delivering an even higher standard of quality, reliable mobility products.

Please read on, to learn a little bit about this new leader to the automotive mobility industry:

Tell us about your history/experience before your current role.

My entire career has been spent in the manufacturing space with companies that distribute products through independent dealer networks. My previous companies—Bobcat, Sullair and Dometic— each had extraordinarily rich histories exceeding 50 years, much like BraunAbility.

Why did you choose the mobility industry?

BraunAbility’s mission of “Making Life a Moving Experience for All” is a very personal one. My son, Ryan, has Angelman’s Syndrome, so my wife and I are closely connected to the special needs community.

Being able to offer mobility solutions to this community is incredibly enriching. Since joining BraunAbility, I have been overwhelmed by the pride our people take in serving our customers. At this stage of my life, it is very gratifying to be a part of a purpose-driven company that makes a powerful, personal impact in the lives of individuals and families we serve.

What are your thoughts on the industry?

I have certainly been inspired by the level of passion and commitment this industry has for its customers. Although it has several decades of impacting the daily lives of people with physical disabilities, in many ways this is still a young industry with enormous potential. When you include caregivers, our market includes over 20 million people in North America alone, and we all know this segment will continue

30

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

to grow. Together I am confident we can rise to the challenge of producing an overall ownership experience that provides greater peace of mind and independence for our customers.

What is the most inspirational/impactful experience you’ve witnessed since joining the mobility industry?

First, I have read so many letters and emails from grateful customers for the products we manufacture and the positive impact they have made on their lives. It is difficult to isolate just one story but watching Jay Leno present a new BraunAbility Pacifica to

of being a NMEDA member is having

granddaughter Marigold), Shawn,

the oversight of an association to

and Kathleen. Currently we live in

ensure safe, reliable products so

Winnetka, Illinois, and our children are

our customers have peace of mind

spread across the country in Denver

when traveling. I recently received

and Kansas City. Our family is highly

an email from a dealer who shared a

active. We enjoy the outdoors and

What does mobility mean to you?

story from a thankful customer. The

sports such as hiking, golfing, fishing,

customer’s BraunAbility Pacifica had

and being on the water. We also enjoy

As an ambulatory individual, I take for

been struck by another vehicle and

travel and have lived as a family in

granted how easy it is to navigate my

ran off the road, striking a tree head-

Europe on two separate occasions.

day. I regularly see firsthand how my

on at 45 mph. Shaken and grateful

son, Ryan, has difficulty moving inside

to have sustained only minor injuries,

our home, and when we go out in

the customer called his dealer, not

public, accessibility is exponentially

knowing if he would be able to exit

more challenging. It is critical for this

his vehicle. The power door, ramp and

industry to see the world through

kneel each functioned as intended,

the eyes of our customers—both the

and the customer and dealer praised

individual with a mobility challenge

the design integrity of the conversion.

and the caregiver—when we design

Knowing a manufacturer and dealer

solutions and services. Our goal must

is a NMEDA member should give

be to remove barriers, not create new

each consumer the confidence of

ones.

knowing their vehicle meets industry-

Bella, a young woman with cerebral palsy, and her family on The Kelly Clarkson Show as part of our 50th anniversary celebration was especially memorable.

best standards in safety, quality,

What would you say to a non-member about why they should become a member?

and service, just like this customer

First, the power of a trade association lies within the collective strength of

Tell us a litle about you/your family.

its members to advance the industry

My wife, Michelle, and I have been

toward its goals and a strong future.

married for 35 years and have four

I believe the most important benefit

children —Ryan, Andrew (wife Julia,

experienced.

Three specific events had a profound impact on my personal life. First, I was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 39, an experience which helped prioritize the “why” in my life. Second, living in Belgium with my family taught me the value of diversity and considering different perspectives and backgrounds. And finally, raising a child with special needs helped both myself and my family to practice gratitude for the smaller things and not take anything for granted.

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Oct-Dec 2022

31

WELL

THAT

ESCALATED QUICKLY. LEARN MORE AT: QSTRAINT.COM/INQLINE

WHEELCHAIR PASSENGER BOARDING SYSTEMS Come Laugh and Learn About All the SeQurement Memes

Oct-Dec 2022

33

IT STARTS WITH US

By Katie McDonald NMEDA DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & SOCIAL

e finally did it—hosted

W

one’s desired path. This campaign

the Colo that we had

dovetails incredibly well with a part

dreamed of. While it

of NMEDA’s new strategic plan to

didn’t go off free of curveballs,

tackle the industry-wide shortage on

the NMEDA & ADED staff and

technicians. Stay tuned for more on

volunteer leaders delivered a show to

this as we explore collaboration with

remember.

this campaign...

The conference kicked off on

After this powerful presentation

Saturday evening with our opening

the Auto Mobility Expo opened

general session featuring, “The Power

kicking off the second “Colo” event.

of Purpose,” with Roy Spence. His

NMEDA and ADED attendees got to

presentation had it all: presidential

explore all the latest technologies

birthday wishes, inspirational

and offerings in the mobility industry

campaigns to unite the nation,

while enjoying cocktails, tasty fare,

Matthew McConaughey—what else

and the company of their peers.

could you ask for? Roy introduced

Sunday began with a joint ADED-

IT. So, definitely expect these again,

the unique “Make It Movement”

NMEDA breakfast followed by a

perhaps in a longer format.

campaign (www.makeitmovement.

day filled with educational dealer

org) which opens the eyes of young

sessions, including an exclusive

adults to the myriad of trade careers

“Sales Masters Course,” presented by

available if a college career is not

renowned training and sales expert

product demonstrations.

When our traditional dealer education wrapped, attendees were invited to our first-ever Industry Roundtable Discussions.

Though it was the first time NMEDA had organized this type of learning

Paul Webb. Voc Rehab attendees also participated in education sessions (more on this on pg. 38) up until the expo was once again open in the afternoon followed by exclusive

and networking session, Danny Langfield had hosted such an event at his last association and fondly described them as “barely controlled chaos.” Though I was not present at the event, I heard this description rang true, and based on feedback from attendees—YOU ALL LOVED

Next came the joint general session, “It’s Not Personal, It’s Generational,” with Karen McCullough. This session was just the energy lifter needed after a long day of education. Karen explained the different expectations and communication habits of the various generational groups, and

how acknowledging and working

moderator, with Mark Minatel—

to a close with our annual auction

with these differences can lead

Driverge, Kyle Norton—VMI, and Scott

fundraiser, raising $68,000. A huge

to improved understanding and

Nelson—BraunAbility, providing their

thanks to all who donated and to our

collaboration in the workplace. Who

insight on the future of the supply

Conference Committee members who

was surprised to learn that they’re

chain woes facing the automotive

worked to secure these donatons.

actually a millenial and not Gen X?

industry. This lunch session also gave

The third and final day of the

us the opportunity to recognize a few

conference started with more expo

special NMEDA members who have

hours, which included a breakfast,

gone above and beyond to further

special educational soap box sessions,

the goals of the association. NMEDA

and the prize drawings for our Expo

was delighted to present Shining

Engagment activities. In addition to

Star Awards to Aaron Gardner—

the Expo Passport NMEDA attendees

BraunAbility and John Kazanchy—

have come to know and love, Expo

Specialty Vehicle Consulting.

Bingo added an extra opportunity to

The final day of conference came

Our awards banquet wrapped up the conference where we honored some exceptional mobility industry leaders by welcoming them into the NMEDA Hall of Fame. For details on all of our awards presented at conference see pg 41.

Thank you to all who attended and we look forward to seeing you next year in Kansas City!

win some cash while touring the expo floor.

---

Our closing general session panel discussion brought some industry experts to the stage. Casey Selecman, Director of Powertrain Forecasts— Auto Forecast Solutions acted as

CONFERENCE PHOTO ALBUM www.nmedaannualconference.com/photos22

36

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

States ted: ReCprReEsHeAn B VIP

VO

16

By Amy Schoppman NMEDA DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & PUBLIC POLICY

P

HAB VI

VOC RE

Voc Rehab VIPs Return in 2022 funding, managing the anxiety

far better than trying to understand

that can accompany high-tech

how some of it works just from the

modifications, quality assurance,

manufacturer’s website).” From a

NMEDA once again hosted

and which client-provided vehicles

networking standpoint, attendees

a group of Vocational

can be converted – over the course

first gathered at Saturday’s VR VIP

Rehabilitation professionals—

of four hours (we’ll include breaks

kickoff reception, which “provided

affectionately referred to as our

next time, I promise!). The panel was

a great opportunity to network with

“VR VIPs”—at the 2022 conference

designed to generate comparative

VR counselors in other states.” The

and Auto Mobility Expo. Forty-two

policy discussions among the VIPs,

networking opportunities continued

individuals representing 16 states

and many attendees appreciated “the

throughout the event, with nearly all

braved travel difficulties and a tropical

ability to compare aspects of [their]

attendees identifying “meeting others

storm to join us in Charlotte and meet

state’s policies and procedures” and

in VR and discussing how VR policies

with their VR colleagues, learn more

“learning from colleagues about

work in their states” as a favorite

about the auto mobility industry,

how other states approach service

aspect of their conference experience,

and explore the latest life-changing

provision.” The sessions also included

noting that “these connections are

products and innovations on display in

brief presentations from NMEDA

beneficial long after the conference

the Auto Mobility Expo.

and ADED staff on the Associations’

ends.”

N

resources, underscoring “how the In response to feedback from our

organizations work together to

If you would like to see your VR

2021 VR VIPs, we expanded this

assure that VR, the VA, and private

representatives in Kansas City next

year’s programming to include both

sector partners facilitate safe and

year (or if you are a VR employee and

morning and afternoon sessions of

independent driving.”

would like to join us next year), please contact me.

VR-only education. The exclusive education sessions kicked off with

Outside of the classroom, the

an “enjoyable, informative, and

Expo provided VIPs with “excellent

very well put together” VR policy

opportunities to talk directly to

panel discussion, which covered

equipment manufacturers and

multiple topics – including bids vs.

dealers” as well as “the ability to

fee schedules, procurement issues,

see equipment in person (which is

---

The provision of services required to assure safe and independent driving requires multiple stakeholders, and this is the place where they all convene from across the country.

This was a great opportunity for VR professionals to meet in person with vendors who could serve our state.

Being able to connect with other VR reps is truly valuable as we are able to learn more about best practices and policy development.

NMEDA Sends a Big THANK YOU To Our Auction Donors!

ADA | AMF-Bruns | Brandl Mobility Finance | BraunAbility | Bruno Independent Living Aids Clock Mobility | Crescent Industries | DealerTeam.com | Drive-Master Harmar | Johnson Hand Controls | O’Reilly Auto Parts | PSA Insurance Power Door & Step | Q’STRAINT | Twining Consulting, Inc. Tempe Mobility | VMI | Wheelchair Getaways

And the Award Goes To...

Hall of Fame Inductees Bill Koeblitz

Mark DiRosa

Jacques Bolduc

Harry Baergan accepted on behalf of Jacques pictured here with Gina Lewis.

Bil Siebert, Mark DiRosa, and Dawn Lubben.

Bill Koeblitz and Eric Mansfield

Shining Star Award Aaron Gardner

CEO’s Award

John Kazanchy

Aaron Gardner and Danny Langfield

Catherine Martin

John Kazanchy and Amy Schoppman

President’s Award NMEDA Staff

Chuck Hardy

Trevor Jennings

Amy Schoppman

Kristen Clevidence

Mikala Ballard

Amy Lane

Katie McDonald

Marilyn Myers

2022 EXPO SPONSORS & EXHIBITORS

Electronic Mobility Controls

DRIVEABILITY

Adaptive Mobility Systems, Inc. — AOTA — ATP Medical, LLC — Banclease Acceptance Corporation Bever Mobility Products — Brandl Mobility Finance — Colle Built Systems, Inc. — DealerTeam.com, LLC Drive-Master — DriveSafety — EZ Lock — Fortress Partners — Joysteer USA, Inc. — In Motion Mobility MGA Research — MPS Corp — O’Reilly Auto Parts — PSA Insurance — Stereo Optical Company Systems Technology, Inc. — TCF Inventory Finance — Twining Consulting, Inc. — United Spinal Association University of Florida — Virage Simulation, Inc. — WrenchWay

save the date September 30 - October 2 Kansas City, Missouri

Oct-Dec 2022

43

INDUSTRY ADVISOR

F/CMVSS 206 Test Requirements for Rear-Entry Folding Ramps (update)

By Harry Baergen – Autoregs Consulting NMEDA CRP COORDINATOR Harry Baergen was previously the Regulation Enforcement Officer for Transport Canada. Currently, he acts as the Compliance Review Program (CRP) Coordinator for NMEDA.

B

ack in July 2014, the CRP

However, when the National Highway

published an Industry

Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Advisor in the Circuit Breaker

and Transport Canada (TC) amended

about alterers’ obligation under

FMVSS 206 and CMVSS/TSD 206

F/CMVSS 206 “Door Locks and

to add the rear latch requirements,

If you have any questions about the

Door Retention Components.” The

the drafters did not specifically

contents of this article, or about

purpose of the 2014 article was

consider folding ramps on rear entry

the NMEDA CRP, contact Harry

to provide information about test

wheelchair accessible vans. Further,

Baergen at 778.888.2210.

requirements found in F/CMVSS

the NHTSA did not exempt rear

206 and also to assist alterers in

folding ramps under the C49 CFR Part

complying with federal requirements.

595 “make inoperative” provisions for

This 2022 follow-up communiqué

modifiers. Rather, in a response to a

will hopefully prepare the adaptive

modifier’s petition for exemption, the

industry for the pending event when

NHTSA defined the rear folding ramp

NMEDA will add F/CMVSS 206 to the

as part of the “hinged door system” or

list of compliance tests required to

as a “hinged back door.” This means

post altered vehicles on the Safety

the modified rear folding ramp, with

Reviewed Vehicles website. The

hinges and latches, is included in

posting aspect particularly affects

the requirements of FMVSS 206 for

altered rear door systems in small

modifiers as well as alterers.

vans that incorporate a fold out ramp for wheelchair access, but under the federal “make inoperative” aspect it could also affect modifiers installing rear entry kits in titled vehicles.

industry and other stakeholders to proactively consider a compliance solution that will satisfy not only the intent of the standard, but also the

of standard 206, the intent of the

self-certification and liability concerns

standard is to minimize the likelihood

of adaptive vehicle alterers and

of occupants being ejected from a

modifiers. Following here is the review

vehicle as a result of impact. The

of standard 206 as articulated in July

rear latch integrity requirement was

2014:

belted children being ejected through the rear van doors, causing fatalities.

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

members in the adaptive vehicle

To recap the purpose and applicability

added later as a result of improperly

44

In this update, NMEDA is urging

First, in reviewing the standard, we must consider if any of the existing definitions in F/CMVSS 206 apply to

the rear folding ramp system, mostly

passenger requires the opening of

door is now latched to the stowed

used on small vans.

the folding ramp part of the door, to

folding ramp, which is either a

ingress and egress, which would mean

movable vehicle structure, or can be

Definitions

that the folding ramp is part of the

considered part of a “double door” or

“Door Hinge System is one or more

door system.

“hinged rear door.” NHTSA considers

Second, we must consider the

it to be part of the door system.

standards that apply.

Either way, the rear latch will have

hinges used to support a door.”

This means that a rear entry folding

to be retested as stipulated in this

ramp “door” includes not only the OEM door, but it includes the

Latch System:

subsection.

modified folding ramp portion to

F/CMVSS 206 S4.1.1.3 requires

F/CMVSS 206 S4.1.1.4 (c) allows

which the OEM door latches to make

the rear door latches to withstand

for a calculation to simulate a 30g

a vertical opening “double door,” or

a load of 9000N in the specified

acceleration, but it references SAE

“door system” as NHTSA interprets.

directions, but this is an out of

J839, Passenger Car Side Door Latch

This would require the folding ramp

vehicle component test, so the

Systems, June 1991. Even if this

hinges to be tested.

center rear OEM latch in itself is

section does apply to rear van doors,

“Door System is the door, latch,

assumed to be already certified by

it is not applicable here unless the

striker, hinges ... and other door

the OEM. Therefore, this section is not

retention force of the stowed ramp

retention components on a door and

applicable to the center OEM latch

is known and can be considered a

its surrounding door frame ... double

of the altered vehicle. If the modified

rigid part of the vehicle, which is a

door includes both doors.”

folding ramp is now considered to be

given in the SAE latch calculations.

part of a “double door” or “hinged

The calculations would also have

rear door,” as NHTSA interprets, but is

to include the most important rear

NOT latched to the vehicle structure

impact (acceleration) and rollover as

in its stowed position, this section is

required by S5.1.1.4 (b) (2) (i) (E) and

not applicable to the altered vehicle.

(F). SAE J839 states in section 4.3

If the folding ramp is considered to

that, “...it is important that the door

be part of a “double door” or “hinged

latch be analyzed within the confines

rear door” and the folding ramp IS

of the total system.” This would have

latched to the vehicle structure in

to include the folding ramp in the

its stowed position, this section is

calculations. Section 6.1 states that

“Double Door is a system of two doors

applicable to the folding ramp latches

the purpose of inertial analysis “is to

where the front door or wing door

and the folding ramp latches will

determine the ability of the vehicle

opens first and connects to the rear

have to be bench tested, unless they

latch system to resist inertia loading

door or bolted door, which opens

are OEM certified latches that are

by means of a mathematical analysis

second.”

designed and tested for use on any

of the component parts in their true

This was likely intended for side

certified OEM vehicle.

car relationship.” [emphasis added]

doors, i.e., “barn doors,” but it would

F/CMVSS 206 S4.1.1.4 (b) requires

The calculations to satisfy this section

also appear to apply to the rear

that the rear door latches be

could be complex and expensive.

folding ramp vertical opening door

subjected to a 30g acceleration (sled)

F/CMVSS 206 S5.1.1.4 (b) provides

system.

test, as stipulated in S5.1.1.4 (b). The

two options for subjecting rear door

“Hinge is a device system used to

acceleration test is applicable to

latches to a 30g acceleration:

position the door relative to the body

rear folding ramps, since the OEM

structure and control the path of the

acceleration test has been rendered

door swing for the passenger ingress

inoperative by the conversion. Rather

and egress.”

than being latched to the rigid sill

This would include the retention components on, and surrounding, the folding ramp if it is considered to be part of a “double door” system or a “hinged back door” as NHTSA interprets, or, if it is not, then the folding ramp itself would be “other retention components” in the surrounding door frame.

on the OEM vehicle, the OEM rear This would imply that a wheelchair

1. By using a complete vehicle tested on a G-sled. This means that whether the folding ramp is considered to be a “double door” / “hinged rear door” or not, the test

Oct-Dec 2022

45

INDUSTRY ADVISOR

(continued)

vehicle that the OEM may have

test and conduct a bench test on

of the latch system, in lieu of an actual

used is no longer relevant and a

the folding ramp hinges as well.

test, may prove to be more complex

new modified vehicle will have to

If the folding ramp latches to the

and more expensive than an actual

be used that includes the folding

vehicle in its stowed position, those

test. There is also a higher risk that

ramp system, OR

latches would also have to be

that the calculations may not be

bench tested, unless they are OEM

acceptable to third party reviewers in

vehicle latches.

the end.

2. By placing a full rear door system mock-up in a test fixture and testing it on a G-sled, This means,

3. To determine whether the SAE

At this point, NMEDA can only

whether the folding ramp is

J839 calculations apply to rear

speculate that the liability risk element

considered to be a “double door”

doors and if so, use mathematical

of a wheelchair occupant ejected from

/ “hinged rear door” or not, the

calculations of the component

the rear of a vehicle is comparable to

mock-up and the test fixture that

parts, including the folding ramp,

that of an improperly belted occupant

the OEM may have used is no

in their true car relationship and

ejected from a rear bench seat. For

longer relevant and a new mock-

conduct a bench test on the

example, the chance of having a

up and test fixture will have to

folding ramp hinges.

properly tied down, but inadequate,

be used that includes the folding ramp.

Hinge system: F/CMVSS S4.1.2.1 (d) (3) requires that all hinge systems on rear doors meet a 9000N load test as stipulated in S5.1.2.2 and .4. This means that if the rear folding ramp is considered to be part of a “double door” or “hinged rear door” the ramp hinge (piano hinge or hinges) will have to meet the hinge test requirements as mentioned under “definitions”.

In conclusion, it appears that the rear folding ramp adaptation becomes part of the rear door system. This renders inoperative the 30g acceleration test that the OEM has conducted to certify the center latch. Therefore, a retest by the vehicle alterer or kit manufacturer will be necessary, either by mock-up or by full vehicle. If the folding ramp is latched to the vehicle, e.g., ‘C’ or ‘D’ pillars, those latches will have to be included in the acceleration test.

(An acceleration test may be the best

wheelchair that is not designed to withstand any substantial load is likely high. On the other hand, the chance of having an improperly tied down, but adequate, wheelchair in a rear entry vehicle, may be somewhat lower. In any case, the F/CMVSS 206 S5.1.1.4 (b) sled test is not a destructive test and it may provide the alterer with a level of comfort that those vulnerable passengers in the rear are at least riding in a compliant modified vehicle or a certified altered vehicle.

way to test the system to the real-life

To assist dealers and consumers who

Finally, it appears that there are three

intention of the standard, especially

are making buying decisions based

ways to apply the rear folding ramp

since the rear folding ramp access is a

on the integrity of rear entry vehicles,

system under F/CMVSS 206:

common alteration.) The folding ramp

the NMEDA Compliance Review

1. To consider the folding ramp

latches and hinges will also have to

Program (CRP) is already accepting

as a rigid or moveable part of

be bench tested unless OEM parts are

F/CMVSS 206 test reports in addition

the vehicle structure contrary

used.

to the existing test requirements for

to NHTSA interpretation and

If there are manufacturers that prefer

to subject the OEM door to an

the calculation option mentioned in

acceleration test together with the

the standard, NMEDA may also look

folding ramp - either as a mock-up

to NHTSA and TC for an interpretation

or as a full vehicle test.

of the applicability of SAE J839

2. To consider the folding ramp as

calculations to rear doors. However,

part of a rear door system as

even if calculations were meant to

NHTSA interprets and to subject

apply to rear doors, NMEDA is already

the system to an acceleration test

finding that the possibility of including

as a mock-up or as a full vehicle

the folding ramp in a 30g calculation

46

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

posting compliant vehicles on the NMEDA website. To proactively ensure that rear entry vehicles with folding ramps comply with F/CMVSS 206, companies and test labs may contact NMEDA with any questions about testing.

---

How Are They Doing That?

Capitalizing on NMEDA’s Social Success

By Stephanie Morando EVOK ADVERTISING - DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA

I

n 2010, NMEDA had no social

One of the reasons NMEDA is

about the industry, inspirational

media presence, today we have a

successful in the digital world

stories, behind-the-scenes clips

combined 186,000 followers on

is because we know the unique

featuring your employees, etc. Give

Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

benefits of each platform and use

them a reason to follow you and

Why is social media essential to

it to improve our online presence.

keep them engaged by sparking

the continued growth of NMEDA?

NMEDA’s Facebook and Twitter

conversation.

It’s simple—social media is a cost-

accounts are used to strengthen

effective way to connect with your

relationships with like-minded

audience, increase brand awareness,

organizations and partners, relate to

cultivate brand ambassadors, and

consumers with trending content,

generate loyalty. Having a presence

connect with disability influencers to

on multiple social media platforms

reach new audiences, and inspire the

also improves your search engine

community. NMEDA utilizes LinkedIn

optimization (SEO) as social media

in a different way. NMEDA’s LinkedIn

pages are commonly in the top five

account is used to connect with our

search results on Google.

members and stakeholders with posts

Most marketers know that industry

about upcoming association events,

referrals and long-term customers

trainings, highlighting members of

are more valuable than someone who

the community, and announcing

makes a single purchase and never

new technologies and government

returns. Social media is used to foster

relations policies. By curating content

that long-term relationship with your

for each social platform, NMEDA is

dealership’s customers and industry

able to connect with our audience in a

partners. If you utilize social media as

meaningful way.

a customer service tool, your audience will trust that you care about their experience rather than simply driving sales.

Facebook Tips

Your Facebook posts should include engaging media. We recommend a mixture of static posts using photos and video reels. Stories should also be posted regularly and can include interactive features such as polls and Q&A. When posting on social media, find a balance of how much to post. You don’t want your audience to forget about you, but you also don’t want to spam them with content. Post a couple of times per week, gauge when your audience interacts the most/least, and stay consistent.

DOs and DON’Ts DO •

If you aren’t sure what to post, that’s okay! NMEDA’s social platforms are there as a resource for partners and

Social Media Strategy for NMEDA Partners and Members

members. You can use the “share”

If you have social media channels

graphics and make it your own or use

now, or you’re just starting out, spend

it for inspiration when planning out

time on each platform and absorb the

your content.

style of conversation to learn how to

Keep your followers engaged by

communicate naturally in that space.

posting interesting content that

Your audience wants to feel a real

resonates with your audience. To

connection, so make your posts as

supplement your posts about your

authentic as possible.

shop/services, also include articles

• • •

function to capitalize on NMEDA’s

•

Create original content for each platform Use eye-catching visual graphics Write conversational captions Respond to every comment, if possible. The more engagement you have, the more the algorithm will display your content.

Engage with other pages. Follow pages of other organizations and partners in your community/ industry. Engage with their content. Hopefully they will return the favor!

Oct-Dec 2022

47

•

Utilize hashtags and keywords to help people follow topics they are interested in such as: #mobility, #wheelchairaccessiblevehicles, #handicapvans, #disability, #inclusion, #mobilityequipment

others in the community, and if

auto-play while users scroll, you’ll see

someone comments on your post, like

more eyes on your prized content.

their comment and reply to start a

Not every post on your social media

conversation.

should be a video (depending on

Sample Captions Encourage engagement by including

DON’T • Use the same content and copy across every social channel: Doing this may work against your strategy’s objectives and breaking this habit is the key to more engaging content and better results. You should be giving the user a reason to follow you on multiple platforms. For example, add Reels to the mix on Instagram that followers on Facebook wouldn’t have the option to view in full. Cross-promote your pages by sharing your Instagram content on Facebook occasionally and encouraging your Facebook followers to follow you on Instagram as well.

• Use off-brand, low-quality images: Ensure that your social media content matches the quality of your business.

Current Events Participate in current events that are relevant to your brand. For NMEDA members, a crucial event is National Mobility Awareness Month (NMAM) in May every year. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). In November we have Veteran’s Day, Military Family Month and National Caregivers Month.

On your social media accounts, share

calls to action in your copy. You can end your caption with a question or ask your audience to like/comment/ share. Here’s some caption examples:

the platform), but videos are used to hook your audience and leave them wanting more. Video is the topperforming digital content on social media, driving more engagement than any other social posting option. See the following page for a “quick guide”

The best way to spread mobility awareness is by sharing YOUR story!

Tell us how an #accessiblevehicle changed your life and tag us using #(insert your company name here)!

to creating video content.

Explore auto mobility equipment options from driving controls to conversion ramps. Designed with you in mind. #(insert your company name here)! #mobilityawareness

Remember that NMEDA’s social

Together, we can #drivechange for more #accessibility. For tools on how to educate others about National Mobility Awareness Month, visit www.mobilityawarenessmonth.com #nmam2022 Thank a veteran today for their service and RT to show your support for National Military Family Month! #veteransday #military

Creating Content If your business is not using video in

Managing social media content for your business can be overwhelming. channels are a key resource for you to use. Use your platforms to support other members of NMEDA, connect with your audience, instill consumer loyalty, and grow your brand!

If you aren’t following us and sharing our content, what are you waiting for?

We are here to support you: https://www.facebook.com/ NMEDAcom - for the United States https://www.facebook.com/ NMEDACanada - for Canada https://twitter.com/NMEDAcom https://www.linkedin.com/company/ nmeda/

some form of your marketing mix, you’re in the minority. Using videos on your social channels typically receives more engagement than pictures, keeps the viewers’ attention for longer, and is supported by the algorithms within the platforms.

feel-good stories that are relevant

Video content beats out its text-based

to these awareness months and

counterparts in both attention and

include branded hashtags. Show

engagement ratings. By choosing a

your support by engaging with

medium that’s easy to digest and can

Any questions, please contact Cheryl Parker at cheryl.parker@evokad.com ---

5 STEPS TO CREATE ENGAGING VIDEOS 1. Ideate: Think about what types of things you want to post on your account. This could be new or used vehicles for sale, highlighting employees, announcements, talking about the Quality Assurance Program and the safety regulations, etc.

2. Plan: Make a plan of who/what you want to show in your video and when would be a good time to film it.

3. Record: You don’t need fancy equipment to film a quality video, all you need is your smartphone. Think about what platforms you are going to post the video on, is it Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok? When recording, hold your phone vertically so you can fit into the aspect ratios of each platform and don’t have to crop anything out later. If posting on YouTube, record videos horizontally to fit the 16:9 aspect ratio.

4. Edit: Did someone in your video make a mistake? Edit it out!

Editing videos enhances your viewers’ experience. Most social platforms include basic editing capabilities that are very userfriendly.

5. Share: Finally, it’s time to post your video. Upload your video, add an engaging caption, and post!

Lights, Camera(phone), Action!

In preparation for this article, and the educational session we presented at the NMEDA Annual Conference, we headed out to MobilityWorks Orlando for a threehour shoot to capture video. Following the steps above, we worked with Romie Campbell—General Manager, and through the magic of editing using Instagram Reels, created two short clips perfect for social media consumption.

We know what you’re thinking, “Only two clips?”

This is just the start, my friends!

By having an arsenal of short clips to build from, three hours of work sets you up with a few months worth of content. And as we said previously, not EVERY post should be a video, but once you get the ball rolling and realize how easy it is to create—you’ll see engagement and traffic to your stores start to soar.

Check out the videos by visiting the link or scaning the QR code to the right!

www.nmeda.org/cb/socialvideos Oct-Dec 2022

49

Mobility

Way

By Mike Savicki — Afterburner Communications NMEDA CONSULTANT

Teacher, Off-Roader Jack Losco, Jr. Balances Life in the Classroom and off the Road ack Losco, Jr. wanted to be

J

That’s Jack. He understands, lives, and

Jack’s story begins in western

a smokejumper. Yes, one of

loves on both ends of the spectrum.

Pennsylvania far out in the country.

those specially trained wildland

He’s a kind and caring teacher, son,

Think hunting, fishing, hiking, working,

firefighters who provide first attack

brother, and friend to all who know

and playing on a dairy farm. Ten acres

response, often by parachute, into

him. He is a role model not only to

to be specific. His sister had horses.

remote and all too often dangerous

the students he teaches but also to

He and his brothers were always on

backcountry fires. Smokejumpers are

those who know him. And to those

dirt bikes and ATVs.

as badass and adventure seeking as

who “adventure” right alongside him

“We are, were, and always have been

they are professional, disciplined, and

either at his home in North Carolina

outdoor people,” Jack Losco, Jr.,

dedicated. They use adrenaline to

or during the summer in the Colorado

now 54, says. “Dirt roads and four-

eliminate adrenaline. They escalate to

backcountry, he is an incredible driver,

wheelers were our thing.”

eliminate.

his off-road Jeep a machine of power.

Forestry and smoke jumping school at the University of Montana in Missoula was where his path took him. Going part way through the windshield in a car accident during his second year was not in the plan. That was 35 years ago.

His brothers were upfront with him during his 5-month inpatient and additional yearlong outpatient rehabilitation stint at Harmarville outside Pittsburgh.

Their conversation went something like this. “[My brothers said] you have two choices, you can lay in this bed and feel sorry for yourself, or you can get

50

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

up and go and do things and be part

While his daily driver, a Dodge

of this family,” Jack recalls, adding,

Grand Caravan which he operates

“and the first choice is not an option.”

from his power chair with an EZ

So, he was soon back behind the

Lock is special, it is his Jeep that

wheel driving a modified six-wheel

gives him outdoor freedom.

amphibious ARGO. It took him

Attending a Jeep and 4x4 show

hunting and gave him the tools to get

opened his eyes again to the

back to work on the farm. To get back

possibility of going off-road, a

outside.

freedom he had been craving since

As a C5 quad, driver training did not

his injury. He sold the ARGO and purchased a Jeep Rubicon Edition

“Finding EMC has given me the

come easily. Jack’s injury level and an

with off-road upgrades galore—40”

opportunity to do what I love behind

accident-related stroke initially limited

tires,1-ton axles, 4 link rear suspension,

the wheel but it took a long time,

his ability to turn the driver’s wheel

3 link front suspension, Nitrogen

and there was a lot of frustration

and operate standard hand controls

struts, and a full roll cage. He pulls

along the way,” he explains. “So many

so he put in extra gym sessions to

it behind his custom built, fully

people have no idea what’s out there

build his strength and stamina. He

accessible box truck camper, a family

and, as an industry, that’s why it’s

passed the road test on his second try

project completed with collaboration

so important to connect with the

before finishing rehab.

from his dad and brothers.

consumer.”

“The Jeep is my decompression zone,

Jack says his life is not an individual

occupational therapist put the

my happy place,” Jack says. “When

effort at all, it is the result of an

wheels in motion for his new career

I’m driving, I forget about everything

overlap of faith, family, and friends.

in education. After being surprised that an aptitude and interest test

else.

“I have support that’s unbelievable for

suggested he would be good working

“And so many people don’t realize I’m

most. It has never been a ‘me’ thing

with kids, she steered him towards

disabled when the door closes,” he

and it never has to be,” he says. “I tell

teaching. He went back to school

adds.

my kids that they help me as much as

Finding a job came next. Jack’s

and finished his studies both in engineering and education. Together they visited schools and spent time in classrooms from elementary through high school.

Uwharrie National Forest, his 51,546acre playground. And he is quick to join organized off-road treks especially in the summer in the Rockies.

public school needing a middle school

And how does he drive the Jeep? His

science teacher, he realized it was his

driving controls, and seating system,

teach at a brand new fully-accessible public school in a district east of Raleigh, North Carolina. He has now been teaching there for nearly 24

point securement.

I help them. Sometimes they wonder Jack is a regular in North Carolina’s

When Jack found a Pennsylvania

calling. In 1999 he moved south to

seat has extra cushioning and multiple

why I don’t just stay home and collect a check, I tell them that being part of something you love, and doing what you have a talent to do, is worth all the effort.”

And for Jack, the teacher and the off roader, being mobile is at the center of it all.

more closely resemble a fighter jet than an off-road machine. The Jeep

“For me, mobility is synergistic, the

is equipped with dual joysticks linked

sum is much greater than the addition

to an EMC AEVIT 2.0 system. His left

of the individual parts,” Jack shares.

joystick controls gas (toggle back)

“It is more than just getting to a

years.

and brake (toggle forward) while the

destination; it is therapeutic.”

“My ‘why’ story?” He jokes. “I think

right joystick overrides the steering

---

God wanted me to work with these

wheel. And to get in and out he

kids, he just had to hit me really hard

elevates his power chair then uses a

over the head to make me realize it.”

roll cage mounted winch. His driver

QAP STRAIGHT TALK

More QAPx Questions Answered

by Chuck Hardy NMEDA DIRECTOR OF QUALITY & COMPLIANCE

I

t was sure good to see so many

come to me from QAPx users, and

or vehicle with mobility equipment

people at the NMEDA Conference

the answers. Hopefully, these will help

gets entered into QAPx. On the other

and Auto Mobility Expo in

some of you out there. And if you

hand, if you take a ‘63 split-window

Charlotte! What a great time. I heard

have a question you don’t see here,

Corvette in on trade (lucky you) and

from more than one attendee who

please contact me. Here we go.

it has no mobility equipment of any kind, that does not get entered into

said it was one of the best they had

1. Do I have to enter the job if it’s a pass-through?

QAPx. Only vehicles you deliver with

Yes!

labeled and entered in QAPx.

expo, you should make the time to

This has come up quite a bit since we

In some shops, I have found that

come out to Kansas City in 2023 to

launched QAPx.

when a pass-through is sold the only

see what it’s all about.

[side note, as you read this article, if

person involved is the salesperson.

I know I have spent A LOT of time

I say ‘entered into QAPx’, I also mean

That can be the reason some have

over the past year going over QAPx.

entered into Docutrack]

offered to why it wasn’t entered into

Please don’t yell at me because in

Some dealers have thought

this article I will continue to talk more

(incorrectly) that, when delivering a

about QAPx (yay, ugh, depending

WAV, maybe one you have on your

what side you’re on). There is a reason

lot, and because they didn’t install

I am spending so much time on QAPx,

anything in said vehicle, they don’t

its new. Like anything new, there will

have to enter it into QAPx (or as one

be a lot of questions and I want to

person referred to it, they don’t have

make sure to answer as many of those

to “NMEDA” it). That is not true.

ever been to. I agree, it was a great event and if you haven’t been to our conference and the auto mobility

questions as possible. We have come a long way with QAPx over the past year and as more and more dealers are using it on a daily basis. The good

Any vehicle you deliver that has mobility equipment in it gets entered into QAPx. It doesn’t matter if you installed

quicker it will become second nature

the equipment or someone else did

for you. It’s just getting over the

before you got it, it doesn’t matter if

learning ‘hump’ part that many of

it’s just a lowered floor van with only

you are dealing with. If you are one

the ramp that came with, and you

of those dealers, be patient, keep

didn’t do any modifications at all. It

entering jobs, and I promise you will

doesn’t matter if it’s a WAV you took

be easier to administer every day!

in trade at 1 o’clock and sold the same

more common questions that have

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NMEDA Circuit Breaker

QAPx because often it is the tech who does the entry and, in these cases, the tech never sees the vehicle. What has to happen here is the sales force needs to be trained on QAPx, so they know that a QAP label needs to be applied and the Vehicle Delivery Form completed and entered in QAPx. The reason for entering passthroughs in QAPx is because when there is any mobility equipment in the vehicle, the dealer is required to

news is the more you use QAPx, the

With that said, here are some of the

mobility equipment are required to be

day at 5 o’clock, it gets a QAP label and is entered into QAPx. Any WAV

inspect the vehicle to make sure all the mobility equipment and features are operational (think ramp, doors, interlocks, etc.) and the dealer needs to provide preventative maintenance schedules and operational instructions to the customer. All of these activities are captured on the delivery form and by entering the job information into QAPx. By doing so, you are

cannot. The email field has to be

the inspection, performed the

3. Why don’t my techs show up on the drop down lists?

customer training, and delivered

Because they don’t have an account,

Now here’s some information you may

any important information such as

or they are not ‘active’.

not be aware of. The email field in the

acknowledging that you completed

preventative maintenance for the installed equipment and so on. The record in QAPx is the objective evidence all these tasks were completed and there is a name of the person at the dealer who verified these tasks were completed. When

I’ve had several calls on this one.

There are only two reasons your tech is not showing up on the dropdowns, (1) is because they have not been added as a user, or (2), they are not checked as “active” under their user account profile.

we proudly say QAP Accredited

unique for each account (ie. user).

account set up does not have to be a real email. Wait, what?? Yeah.. I know, it’s a little confusing, but that field is used for the login and technically it does not have to be a real working email. So, you can make up a ‘fake’ email to put there. This is what we recommend for techs (or any user)

To add a user, just go under the

who doesn’t have a company email.

Administration tab and go to

Just make one up. We recommend

“Accounts”, then add or hit the “+”

using something that you will

symbol to add a user. When you’re

remember, like xxx@yourcompany.

2. Does service-only work get entered in QAPx?

entering all the account information,

com, but it can be anything. This is

make sure the check box labeled

how you get around the issue when

This one is a little tricky, so the answer

“Active” is checked. It’s not checked

you have a user who doesn’t have an

is Maybe.

by default, so you will have to check

email.

dealers stand above the rest, its things like this that differentiate us from the rest.

Why maybe? It’s maybe because

it. When its checked, the user will

some service work requires replacing equipment. Only in those cases do you have to enter the job in QAPx. Let’s get some low hanging fruit out of the way first. Things like routine oil changes, preventative maintenance that involves application of some lube or other liquids, none of these have to be entered into QAPx, so these are a no. But a few dealers have asked me what they do in the case they are servicing some equipment (let’s say a docking station) and during the not checked, it will not.

4. Do I have to complete all the forms shown for every job?

they have to replace it with the same

Something else we have taken calls

No.

model equipment. Do they apply

on is tech email accounts. Not all

a label and enter into QAPx? Yes.

companies provide techs with their

Whenever equipment is added, that

own company email, but the email

changes the operation from service

field under the account setup is

to install and all installs have to be

required. Not only that, but QAPx

entered into QAPx and a QAP label

will not allow duplicate emails. Some

applied.

dealers have asked if they can use a

servicing they find the equipment is not repairable or non-functioning and

show up in the dropdowns, when it’s

shared email for all their techs, they

When you’re completing a job in QAPx, you will find all the forms under the “Customer Forms” tab. There are five forms that are available to you, but you don’t have to complete all of the forms for every job. The only form that is required for every

Oct-Dec 2022

53

QAP STRAIGHT TALK

(continued) the form and hopefully this time, it is accepted without any errors.

6. How do I get help if I need it?

Call the help desk.

The quickest way to get help is calling the help desk. The help desk number is found under the Help tab. If you don’t want to call you have several other options. One is to submit a support request ticket, another option is to email the support team, and another option is to go to the FAQ, and watch one of the training videos on whatever the problem is your having.

job is the “Vehicle Delivery Form”.

think it’s a fancy dance for old people

All the rest of them depend on the

with checkered shirts and skirts, but

work being done and whether or not

no, it’s actually a lean manufacturing

you have a prescription. I already

failure-proofing method. It’s the

went through in detail each of

system making sure everything is right

Bottom line is QAPx offers you

these forms in a previous article so

before it moves on. In this case, the

multiple ways to get help, calling the

I won’t repeat it here. You can find

system finds there is something about

help desk is the quickest.

information on each form and when

the form that was not completed

to use them by clicking on the “Form

correctly, it could be a check box

Conclusion

Reference Guide” button found on the

not checked, or a field that was left

That’s all I have ladies and gentlemen!

“Customer Forms” tab.

blank, or a signature expected that

I hope you found some of this

was missing. And if you can’t figure

information useful and if it wasn’t

out what went wrong, the best advice

useful today, as you continue to use

I can give to you is to start over. No

QAPx you may just come across one

wait a minute Chuck, you want me to

of these things and say to yourself….

start the whole job over?? No… that’s

Ahh yes, this is what Chuck was

If you used QAPx for a while now

not what I am saying. You don’t start

talking about, and you will be ready

and submitted a lot of jobs, you most

the job over, you start the form over.

to solve the issue. We won’t have

likely have come across the dreaded

To start a form over, go to the form

another magazine release until the

‘red’ error message boxes that pop

and click “Start Over”. After you do

new year so hope you all have a

up after you click ‘submit’. These

that, you can complete and process

splendid holiday and a happy new

5. I keep getting errors on my forms and it won’t let me submit the job, what do I do?

Start Over.

error boxes are the result of the system checking for all the required information to be completed. It’s a great system poka-yoke! Do you know what a poka-yoke is? Most people

54

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

year!

---

NMEDA

Advocating Automotive Mobility for Your Clients

Learn About Mobility Solutions and Earn CEU Credits for Free Advocating Automotive Mobility for your Clients: Driver Rehabilitation and Automotive Mobility Solutions (AAM) Course The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is offering an introductory level online course to provide allied healthcare professionals with an overview of a patient’s automotive mobility challenges, automotive mobility solutions, and the practitioner’s role in advocacy and referral. By learning about automotive vehicle modifications, healthcare professionals will be able to suggest options for caregivers or persons who want to drive or be transported, but need accommodations. Topics covered include learning about the importance of Automobility and Related Services, Driving as an Instrumental ADL, Diagnosis, Assessment, and five actual Client Case Studies.

Learning Objectives: • Recognize the importance of automotive mobility independence for persons with disabilities • Differentiate the role of key industry professionals and organizations involved in the automotive mobility industry • Identify the unique process involved in researching, evaluating, selecting, and purchasing automotive mobility solutions • Distinguish between different program models used in driving programs to best meet consumer needs • Explore a road map for assessment and advocacy in the mobility process

Sign Up Online At www.NMEDA.org/CEU

NMEDA’s AAM Course is: • Offered online, for your convenience • Brought to you by NMEDA and ADED, the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists • Targeted for: OT, OTA, PT, PTA, Case Managers, ATP, Students, and Other Health Professionals • Approved for AOTA* (.15 CEU) in the categories of Occupational Therapy Service Delivery and Professional Issues, ADED** and CCMC (1.5 Contact Hours), upon successful completion complletion of o post-test

FOR ALL ATTENDEES

Contact NMEDA at Learning@nmeda.org or 813.264.2697 for assistance or any special accommodations/needs requests.

*NMEDA is an AOTA Approved Provider, ID #7009. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

Oct-Dec 2022

55

**ADED Approved Contact Hours. The assignment of ADED contact hours does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by ADED.

QAP DASHBOARD AVERAGE FINDINGS PER AUDIT October 2021–September 2022 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

TOP 5 AUDIT FINDINGS October 2021–September 2022 QAP Contact Training Incomplete/Expired

78

NCT Missing/Expired

64

QAPx/DocuTrack Missing Documents

45

QC Manual Needs Update

40

QAPx/DocuTrack Forms Incomplete/Incorrect

37

AUDIT FINDING SEVERITY October 2021–September 2022 Successful Audit 5%

Opportunity for Improvement 49%

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Major 14%

Minor 32%

QAP DASHBOARD TOTAL QAP DEALERS IN GOOD STANDING Quarterly: September 2021–September 2022 330

325

325

321

320

320 315

308

307

Jun-22

Sep-22

310 305 300 295 Sep-21

Dec-21

Mar-22

NEW QAP APPLICATIONS & ACCREDITATIONS Quarterly: September 2021–September 2022 Applications

Accreditations

6 5 4 3

5 4

4 3

3

3 2

2

2

4

2

1 0 Sep-21

Dec-21

Mar-22

Dealers with No Audit Findings No dealers met this critieria for Q3 2022.

Jun-22

Sep-22

Newly Accredited Dealers Bettenhausen Auto - Tinley Park, IL Superior Van & Mobility - Ann Arbor, MI Team Toyota - Glen Mills, PA

Oct-Dec 2022

57

NMEDA INDUSTRY MEMBERS INDUSTRY ____________________________

Accessible Vans of America, LLC. 334 Buckington Street St. Peters, MO 63376 (636) 294-1762

Driving Systems, Inc. 16139 Runnymede St. Van Nuys, CA 91406 (818) 782-6793

Adaptive Driving Alliance 111 Stow Avenue, Ste 103 Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 (330) 928-7401

Electronic Mobility Controls, LLC 26 Gabriel Dr. Augusta, ME 04330 (207) 512-8009

Adaptive Mobility Systems, Inc. 2072 N. Bibb Drive Tucker, GA 30084 (770) 674-0776

EZ Lock 2001 Wooddale Blvd.

Baton Rouge, LA 70806 (225) 214-4620

Adapt-Solutions 145 Damase-Breton St-Lambert, QC G0S 2W0 (866) 641-0419

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles 1000 Chrysler Drive Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (800) 255-9877

Mahadev Metal Works & Fabrication Unit 124, 125 - 11071 Bridgeport Rd. Richmond, BC V6X 1T3 (604) 270-3317 Malley Industries, Inc. 1100 Aviation Avenue Dieppe, NB E1A 9A3 (506) 859-8591 Manufacturing Production Services Corp.

2222 W. Enterprise St. Escondido, CA 92029 (800) 243-4051 MGA Research Corporation 5000 Warren Road Burlington, WI 53105 (262) 763-2705

AMF Bruns of America 1797 Georgetown Road Hudson, OH 44236 (877) 506-3770

Ford Motor Company 777 Woodward Avenue, Suite 500 Detroit, MI 48226 (313) 202-6342

Bever Mobility Products 2885 Sanford Ave SW 41693 Grandville, MI 49418 (888) 959-6198

Fortress Partners 5005 Plainfield Ave NE Suite 400 Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (616) 447-2293

Brandl Mobility Finance Services 559 Hwy 10 South St. Cloud, MN 56304 (866) 581-3922

General Motors Corporation 100 Renaissance Ctr., MC482-A20-B98 Detroit, MI 48265 (313) 667-8682

Mobility Support Solutions 16212 Bothell Everett Highway Mill Creek, WA 98120 (877) 246-0979

In Motion Mobility 2299 NW 108th Avenue Sweetwater, FL 33172 (786) 543-2046

PMG Technologies Inc. 100 Du Landais St. Blainville, QC J7C 5C9 (450) 430-7981

Harmar Mobility 1500 Independence Blvd.

Ste 220 Sarasota, FL 34234 (800) 833-0478

Pritchard Auto Group 1 Team Quest Way Clear Lake, IA 50428-2296 (352) 552-6674

BraunAbility P.O. Box 310 Winamac, IN 46996 (800) 843-5438 Bruno Independent Living Aids 1780 Executive Drive Oconomowoc, WI 53066 (262) 953-5316 Creative Carriage Ltd. 6 Ridgeview Street St. George, ON N0E 1N0 (519) 740-4801 Crescent Industries 191 Washington St. Auburn, ME 04210 (207) 777-3500 DealerTeam.com, LLC 2195 Larkspur Ln #203 Redding, CA 96002 (530) 232-3260 Driverge Vehicle Innovations 4199 Kinross Lakes Parkway Suite 300 Richfield, OH 44286 (330) 510-3069

58

Johnson Hand Controls LLC 3960 Locust Grove Rd Columbia, PA 17512 (717) 449-0089 Joysteer USA, Inc. 6624 Clay Avenue SW Grand Rapids, MI 49548 (832) 783-9751 KEMPF 1245 Lakeside Dr. #3005 Sunnyvale, CA 94085 (408) 773-0219

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

Mobility Credit Acceptance 1108 E Main St Suite 200 Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 505-4000 Mobility Innovations 51277 Celeste Dr. Shelby Twp, MI 48315 (586) 843-3816

PSA Insurance & Financial Services 11311 McCormick Rd. Hunt Valley, MD 21031 (443) 798-7495 Q’Straint/Sure-Lok 4031 NE 12th Terrace Oakland Park, FL 33334 (954) 986-6665 Royale Mobility LLC 100 Newark Street Haverhill, MA 01832 (978) 374-4530

Sure Grip Hand Controls 4850 Route 102 Upper Kingsclear, NB E3E 1P8 (506) 363-5289 Tempe Mobility 7975 S. Autoplex Loop Tempe, AZ 85284 (480) 598-2383 TMN 58 Hachermesh St. Haifa, Israel 31000 073-2229222-200 Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc 6565 Headquarters Drive Plano, TX 75024 (469) 292-4649 Twining Consulting, Inc. 18071 Mount Washington St Unit A Fountain Valley, CA 927086118 (562) 272-7231 Vantage Mobility International 5202 S. 28th Place.

Phoenix, AZ 85040 (800) 348-8267

NMEDA ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS ____________________________

ARIZONA

GEORGIA

MARYLAND

Jennifer Nordine Driving to Independence LLC 1414 W. Broadway Rd #218 Tempe, AZ 85282 (480) 449-3331

Dan Allison 142 Lynford Ln Woodstock, GA 30189

Elin Davis American Occupational Therapy Association 6116 Executive Blvd Ste 200 North Bethesda, MD 20852 (800) 729-2682

____________________________

Eilif L. Olesen 636 Frigate Dr # 9201 Ellijay, GA 30540-6335 (727) 424-7485

CALIFORNIA Penny M. Anders Sharp Memorial Hospital Rehab 1641 Borana St. San Diego, CA 92111 (858) 565-2437 Lula Capuchino Capuchino Therapy Group 3601 Marconi Ave. Sacramento, CA 95821 (916) 481-1300 Melanie Henry Driver Cognitive Assessment Center, LLC 4450 Black Ave Suite D Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 249-5947 Gregory Paquin Gregory J. Paquin 5140 Florence Ave. Unit C Bell, CA 90201 (310) 337-1410 ____________________________

COLORADO

Rajesh Pagadala Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency 3586 Riverside Drive Macon, GA 31210 (478) 751-6272 ____________________________

C Kerry Jones The Space Between 26875 Church St. Edwardsburg, MI 49112 (269) 663-0226

Darina Yakimec 2500 Archbury Ln APT 1K Park Ridge, IL 60068

Kelby Lloyd Special Driving Services, Inc. P.O. Box 241 Okemos, MI 48805 (517) 862-1717

____________________________

INDIANA

____________________________

Kathy Kachanoski Columbus Regional Hospital 1732 Timbercrest Dr. Columbus, IN 47203 (800) 841-4938

Eva Richardville Therapeutic Mobility Services, Inc. 311 Airport North Office Park Ft. Wayne, IN 46285 (260) 417-8399 ____________________________

KENTUCKY MaryFrances Gross On the Road, Again 4805 Hemlock Way Lexington, KY 40514 (619) 607-1142 ____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

MICHIGAN

Barry Doyle Craig Hospital - BD 3425 S. Clarkson Street Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8218

FLORIDA Stephen A. Emerson Stephen A. Emerson Inc. 1384 Wainwright Way Ft. Myers, FL 33919 (239) 633-0180

Eugene Blumkin Massachusetts Rehab Commission 600 Washington Street Boston, MA 02211 (617) 204-3721

Anne Hegberg Strive for Independence 1919 S. Highland Avenue Bldg. C, Suite 119 Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 909-6080

Carin Mitchell Mitchell Driving Solutions PO Box 705 New Carlisle, IN 46552

Natalie Uyeno 3425 S Clarkson St Englewood, CO 80113-2811 (303) 789-8218

MASSACHUSETTS

ILLINOIS

Sarah Davidson Craig Hospital -SD 3425 S. Clarkson St. Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8117

Colleen Knoll Craig Hospital - CK 3425 S. Clarkson Street Englewood, CO 80113 (303) 789-8218

____________________________

LOUISIANA Michael K Shipp MKS Consultants, LLC 1340 Mitcham Orchard Rd Ruston, LA 71270 (318) 245-7361

MISSISSIPPI Nikki Simmons Driving Independence 5225 Crawford Rd Hernando, MS 38632 (901) 734-7472 ____________________________

NEW YORK Gail Babirad Rehabilitation Technology Assoc. Inc - GB PO Box 540 Kinderhook, NY 12106-0540 (800) 987-2753 Jurgen Babirad Rehabilitation Technology Associates, Inc. - JB PO Box 540 Kinderhook, NY 12106-0540 (800) 987-2753 John Lorenzetti, OTR/L, CDI, DRS FLX Driver Rehabilitation, LLC 4144 High Banks Rd. Geneva, NY 14456 (315) 585-9198

Raanan Zidile Tri-Boro Driver Rehabilitation & Mobility Services, Inc. 1642 Coney Island Ave Brooklyn, NY 11230 ____________________________

NORTH CAROLINA Cyndee Crompton Driver Rehabilitation Services PO Box 448 McLeansville, NC 27301 (336) 697-7841 Mike Edwards North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation 5501 Executive Center Dr Suite 101 Charlotte, NC 28212 undefined Liz Soles ADED 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory, NC 28601 (866) 672-9466 ____________________________

PENNSYLVANIA Brenda Bennett Transportation Solutions 4202 Peach Street Erie, PA 16509 (814) 833-2301 Amy Lane Adaptive Driving Program/U of Pittsburgh 3600 Forbes St Pittsburgh, PA 15101 (412) 864-3068 ____________________________

SOUTH CAROLINA Alan B. Simmerson CDRS WJBD VA Medical Center 3602 Deerfield Drive Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 776-4000 ____________________________

TEXAS Chad Strowmatt Strowmatt Rehabilitation Services, Inc 11020 Katy Freeway Ste 217 Houston, TX 77043 (713) 722-0667 ____________________________

Andrew Streit 4060 Seneca St. West Seneca, NY 14224

____________________________

Oct-Dec 2022

59

NMEDA ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS CANADA

ONTARIO

EUROPE

____________________________

Shah Baqar, OT, CDRS CBI Health Group 20 Linsmary Court Markham, ON L6E 1L2 (416) 419-3031

____________________________

BRITISH COLUMBIA Larry Bowen Larry Bowen PO Box 78095 Northside RPO Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 4X5 (604) 996-4893 Dean Robertson Access Driver Rehab Specialists 3405 W 31 Ave. Vancouver, BC V6S 1X6 (604) 263-5286 Lars Taylor InSight Rehabilitation Services Inc. 3002 Coachwood Crescent Coldstream, BC V1B 3Y4 (250) 542-3087 ____________________________

NEW BRUNSWICK Maura DuLong Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation 800 Priestman St. Fredericton, NB E3B 0C7 (506) 452-5876 ____________________________

F. Lortie F. Lortie 68 Bloomfield London, ON N6G 1P3 (519) 495-9541

UNITED KINGDOM George Uzonwa Flat 72 Athelney Street London, UK SE6 3LB

Tamalea Stone Ottawa Hospital 686 Vivera Pl Stittsville, ON K2S 2N1 (705) 741-7660 ____________________________

QUEBEC Kristian Thivierge Centre de Readaptation Constance-Lethbridge 7005, Boulevard de Maisonneuve Quest Montreal, QC H4B 1T3 ____________________________

SASKATCHEWAN Suzanne Lendvoy SK Health Authority 2180 23rd Avenue Regina, SK S4S 0A5 (306) 766-5968 _____________________________

NMEDA EDU/GOV’T/NON-PROFIT MEMBERS

____________________________

Chelsea Hales The Master’s Driving School W7366 Flambeau Point Rd Ladysmith, WI 54848 (715) 532-0327

Eric Bradley Texas A&M Transportation Institute 3135 TAMU College Station, TX 77843 (979) 845-7492

Todd Keanan James A. Haley VA Hospital 13000 Bruce B. Downs.

Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33612 (813) 972-2000

Timothy Brant Brant’s Driving School 596 Goucher Street Johnstown, PA 15905 (877) 395-7011

James Kovar 3135 TAMU College Station, TX 77843

EDU/GOV’T/NONPROFIT

Lance Bullard Texas Transportation Institute A&M Univ.

3135 TAMU College Station, TX 77843 (979) 845-6153 Marilyn Clark 3863 Lander Road M2 Chagrin Falls, OH 44022

60

Julius Lee SMCL Foundation & Associates Inc. Adaptive & Multi-services Organization 2910 Seine Street New Orleans, LA 70114 (504) 450-4014 Justin Maxwell 3135 Tamu College Station, TX 77843

NMEDA Circuit Breaker

Torrey Morse Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services 55 Farmington Ave, 12th Fl Hartford, CT 06105 (860) 424-5543

Edwin Stang Disabled Sailing Association 402 Houghton Ct Kelowna, BC V1X 7C7 (250) 859-0816

Tina Paff Bicks Driving School 6367 Glenway Ave Cincinnati, OH 45211 (513) 251-2100

Stephen Sundarrao Rehabilitation Engineering & Technology Program 4202 E Fowler Ave ENB 118 Tampa, FL 33620 (813) 974-5346

Daniel Reid 1721 Hardy Street Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 544-5403

Michelle Szumski 101 East 15th Street 101 CT Austin, TX 78778 (512) 936-3462

James Rose 5541 E Grant Rd Tucson, AZ 85712

Arthur Yeager 3835 Maple Hill Road Fairfax, VA 22033

Jo’el Roth WA Division of Vocational Rehabilitation 9600 College Way N Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 431-9681

Bill Youngman Department of Social & Health Services 9600 College Way N Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 437-9681

AMF BRUNS IS • Family-Owned and Operated Since 1958 • RED DOT Award (Design Award) Winner for 2 products in the Mobility Industry • Protektor Series – Red Dot Winner - New Cutting edge design wheelchair retractors available • Offering special needs products worldwide • Outstanding quality • Outstanding service • FREE training online • EST 1958 • ISO 9001 Registered

AMF Bruns America 877-506-3770 www.amfbrunsamerica.com est 1958

DATES TO REMEMBER This calendar of upcoming events is provided as a service to NMEDA members. The Circuit Breaker cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Please verify dates and locations with the organizations listed.

NMEDA Board of Directors Meetings November 17, 2022 December 15, 2022 January 19, 2023

NMEDA Comprehensive Automotive Mobility Solutions (CAMS) November 24, 2022 – Saskatoon, KS (Canada) December 9, 2022 – Ft. Myers, FL March 22, 2023 – Everett, WA Visit www.NMEDA.org/CAMS for more information.

Abilities Expo - Dallas December 2–4, 2022 Visit www.abilities.com/dallas for more information.

Abilities Expo - Los Angeles March 10–12, 2023 Visit www.abilities.com/losangeles for more information.

2023 NMEDA Annual Conference & Auto Mobility Expo September 30-October 2, 2023 – Kansas City, Missouri Visit www.NMEDAAnnualConference.com for more information.

To have your information included in Dates to Remember, please submit at least 12 weeks before the event to katie.mcdonald@nmeda.org.

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Oct-Dec 2022

63

NOW AVA AILABLE WITH

AND ALL-NEW