July - September 2023

THE NMEDA MAGAZINE

Life Moving Forward

GR Report: Clickbait Edition

Who is Servicing your Customers?

A Letter From the New CEO ...and so much more!

ANSWERING THE BELL

Special Conference Preview starts on page 30

Features & Benefits

• Officially licensed QAP portal eliminates need to use QAPx

• Increases service profits with video inspections

• Verifies critical installation procedures

• Allows easy auditing of service and installations

• Enables access to national training library database

• Provides virtual service reports for remote customers

• Enhances customer satisfaction

• Offers protection from false claims

DOCUTRACK, the quality app from the ADA, now features a Service Module custom built for the mobility dealer. With proven automotive technology, this module enables you to use photos and videos to increase customer trust, boost service revenue, and better protect your dealership.

DOCUTRACK also combines four other powerful shop tools into a single software platform:

Installation Module: Drives quality to every mobility installation

Training Module: Enables techs to become more efficient

Risk Management Module: Provides documentation to protect your dealership

Auditing Module: Allows you to audit any installation from your computer

AN APP FROM THE ADAPTIVE DRIVING ALLIANCE Discover

330.928.7401

adamobility.com/docutrack

Toby Cummings Chuck Hardy

Brittney McMahan

Robert N . Parmas

Gerhard Schmidt

Mike Savicki

Amy Schoppman

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

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

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

Catherine Martin, Treasurer Ilderton Conversions

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

Steve Dawson, Component Manufacturer Rep. Harmar Mobility 1500 Independence Blvd, Suite 200 Sarasota, FL 34234 800.833.0178 phone steve.dawson@harmar.com

Todd Navarrete, Manufacturer Rep. VMI

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

Chad Blake, Past President Arch Retail Group 500 Northwest Plaza Drive, Suite 900 St. Louis, MO 63074 (314) 989-1010 phone chad.blake@braunability.com

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

Eva Richardville, Allied Health Professional Rep. Therapeutic Mobility Services, Inc. 311 N. Airport Office Park Fort Wayne, IN 46285 260.417.8399 phone eva@theramobility.net

Michelle Szumski, Edu/Gov/NonProfit Rep. Texas Workforce Commission 101 East 15th Street Austin, TX 78778 512.936.3462 phone michelle.szumski@twc.texas.gov

Trevorr Jurgensen, Rep. at Large 1 MobilityWorks 810 Moe Drive Akron, OH 44310 800.638.8267 phone trevorr.jurgensen@mobilityworks.com

Ron Mohr, Rep. at Large 2 Clock Mobility 603 N Waverly Road Lansing, MI 48917 517.272.4488 phone ronm@clockmobility.com

Corey Kupsh Rep. at Large 3 A & J Mobility 333 Washington Street Valders, WI 54245 920.775.4104 phone coreyk@aandjvans.com

Tammy Johnson Rep. at Large 4 Superior Van & Mobility 1506 Lakeshore Court Louisville, KY 40223 502.447.8267 phone tjohnson@superiorvan.com

NMEDA STAFF DIRECTORY

Toby Cummings CEO toby.cummings@nmeda.org

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Mikala Ballard

Membership & Administration Coordinator mikala.ballard@nmeda.org

Kristen Clevidence Quality Program Manager kristen.clevidence@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

Brittney McMahan

Mananger of Communications & Social brittney.mcmahan@nmeda.org

Marilyn Myers

Senior Bookkeeper marilyn.myers@nmeda.org

Amy Schoppman

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

I’m beyond excited to have joined the NMEDA team. I believe this industry is one worth talking about and I’m thrilled to now play a part in what’s being said.

I’m sure you’re all wondering, “Who’s the new girl?”

So, here is a little about me: I graduated from Texas A&M University (Gig’em Ags) in 2021 with a degree in Sociology. After graduation, I dove right into the non-profit world and started working for an association management company. I’ve been working at conferences on a contract basis since about 2015. I even made a guest appearance at the NMEDA Annual Conference and Auto Mobility Expo in 2022 in Ohio, where I helped out at the registration booth.

Speaking of conferences, I hope to see you at the 2023 NMEDA Annual Conference and Auto Mobility Expo. I hear from September 30 through October 2 Kansas City is going to be a blast. I know the education is going to be full of things you NEED to know, including how to keep and attract technicians, using AI and ChatGPT in your dealerships and so much more.

NMEDA ON THE ROAD Speaking About Safety, State By State

By Brittney McMahan Manager of Communications, NMEDA

Time flies when your having fun and if you hang with us long enough you’ll have fun all over the United States! Our NMEDA staff has crossed the country a number of times this year in support of our Education & Training (E&T) and Industry & Public Relations (I&PR) efforts. From Florida to California allied health professionals are learning about auto mobility, QAP and even recieving unique trainings! You can see where all we’ve been in the map below. Kansas City, Missouri is our next stop and you don’t want to miss out. See more on page 32.

San Diego, CA | APTA Sections Meeting

Dallas, TX | Manufacturer Service School

Chantilly, VA | CAMS Training

Jacksonville, FL | Auto Mobility Awareness Tour

Everett, WA | CAMS Training

Denver, CO | Auto Mobility Awareness Tour

Pittsburgh, PA | International Seating Symposium

Kansas City, MO | AOTA Conference

Washington, DC | ACMA Conference

Detroit, MI | Auto Mobility Awareness Tour

Sarasota, FL | Manufacturer Service School

New Orleans, LA | Auto Mobility Awareness Tour

Washington DC | United Spinal Roll on Capital Hill

Las Vegas, NV | Case Management Society of America

Portland, OR | PVA Wheelchair Games

New Orleans, LA | Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America

Orlando, FL | PVA Summit

AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Industry Name Change

Ability Center announced it will re-brand its 18 locations to United Access. According to the release, this brings United Access locations to 50 across the US making it the second largest retailer of wheelchair accessible vehicles in the country.

National Mobility Awareness Month Recieves Congressional Recognition

National Mobility Awareness Month has been officially recognized by Congress! NMEDA’s annual celebration of accessible transportation solutions was acknowledged on the House Floor by Congressman Raul Ruiz, and his remarks were subsequently published in the May 17 edition of the Federal Register. The Federal Register is the official journal of the U.S. federal government. The publication exists to notify the American public of federal government activities and sometimes includes special observances for holidays or commemorations deemed relevant to the public.

CAMS Event in McFarland, Wisconsin

In a grand fashion, A&J Mobility hosted the final Comprehensive Automotive Mobility Solutions (CAMS) event before the official start of summer. The June 14th, 2023 education event kicked off A&J Mobility’s celebration of their new store opening, located in McFarland, Wisconsin.

Thanks to the support of Adapt Solutions, BraunAbility, Q’Straint and Sure Grip, close to 50 attendees had the opportunity to learn directly from the manufacturer representatives. All supported the course instructor, Kaitlin Finch, OTR/L, CDRS, who provided an outstanding educational presentation.

The feedback received from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to expand their understanding of the processes in obtaining safe and reliable transportation for their clientele. A&J Mobility’s efforts were lauded for an event that seamlessly provided healthcare workers and stakeholders with information about the world of automobility. Due to the overwhelming success of the educational offering, many attendees questioned when there would be another event.

CAMS Attendees - McFarland, WI

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS

ILLINOIS

Bettenhausen Auto

8355 W 159th St

Tinley Park, IL 60477-1220

(708) 532-2665

1

MobilityWorks - Niles

9207 N Milwaukee Ave

Niles, IL 60714

(847) 673-4300

1, 3

MobilityWorks - Plainfield

23855 W Andrew Road

Plainfield, IL 60585

(888) 473-5402

1, 3

MobilityWorks - Villa Park

155 East North Avenue

Villa Park, IL 60181

(888) 473-5402

1, 3

Personal MobilityChampaign

1109 Parkland Ct

Champaign, IL 61821 (217) 398-1188

1, 3

Personal Mobility - Peoria

7611 N Harker Drive

Peoria, IL 61615

(309) 966-3089

1, 3

Personal MobilitySpringfield

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 & MobilityEvansville

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 & MobilityFort Wayne 2218 Contractors Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46818 (260) 497-8267

1, 3

Superior Van & MobilityIndianapolis 5410 South Madison Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46227 (317) 781-6900

1, 3

Superior Van & MobilitySouth Bend

4246 Meghan Beeler Ct. Suite 1 South Bend, IN 46628 (574) 271-1175

1, 3

IOWA

MobilityWorks - Grimes

3450 SE Miehe DrSuite 1 Grimes, IA 50111 (501) 795-3100

1, 3

Siebert Mobility of Iowa LLC

3554 Dolphin Drive Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 351-3159

1,3

KANSAS

Banner Mobility Resources Inc.

231 SE 53rd St Ste C

Topeka, KS 66609 (785) 235-3070

1

Superior Van & MobilityLouisville

1506 Lakeshore Court

Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 447-8267

1, 3

LOUISIANA

FastServ Medical - Bossier 1329 Driftwood Drive

Bossier City, LA 71111 (318) 741-9586

1, 3

FastServ Medical - Monroe 112 Summer Lane West Monroe, LA 71291 (318) 396-3366

1, 3

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

1, 3

Superior Van & MobilityNew Orleans 1901 Westbank Expressway

Suite 500

Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 684-2100

1

MAINE

MobilityWorks - Bangor 1766 Hammond St

Hermon, ME 04401-1119 (888) 473-5402

1

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

1,3 ____________________________

MARYLAND

Koons Ford of Annapolis 2540 Riva Road

Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 224-2100

1, 3

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

1

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

1, 3

Oneness Mobility Service LLC 7701 Penn Belt Drive Forestville, MD 20747 (301) 568-6686

1, 2, 3

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

1

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 015371225 (508) 731-0073

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

KENTUCKY

Superior Van & MobilityLexington 761 East New Circle Road

Lexington, KY 40505

(859) 253-1832

1, 3

All Mobility Store LLC 8999 Ocean Hwy Delmar, MD 21875 (410) 543-4323

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

MobilityWorks - North Attleboro 57 George Levin Drive N. Attleboro, MA 02760 (508) 643-0605

1,3

MobilityWorks - Norwood 560 Boston Providence Highway Norwood, MA 02062 (781) 278-8885

1, 3

NMEDA DEALER MEMBERS

United Access - Pasadena 3430 E Sam Houston Parkway S Pasadena, TX 77505 (281) 487-1969

1, 2, 3

United Access - Pflugerville 15301 Interstate 35 Ste A Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 436-0820

1, 3

United Access - Rowlett 2704 Lawing Ln 300 Rowlett, TX 75088 (877) 501-8267

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 Ste E Chantilly, VA 20151 (703) 345-2990

1, 3

Independent Lifestyles 4880 South Amherst Hwy Madison Heights, VA 24572 (434) 846-7510

1

MobilityWorks - Norfolk 6059 Virginia Beach Blvd Norfolk, VA 23502 (757) 455-9889

1,3

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

1,3

Priority Honda Hampton dba Priority Mobility 4115 W Mercury Blvd. Hampton, VA 23666 (757) 838-1252

1

WASHINGTON

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

1, 3

United Access - Everett 7202 Evergreen Way Everett, WA 98203 (425) 353-6563

1, 3

United Access - Redmond 14640 NE 91st Street Suite A Redmond, WA 98052 (425) 406-8484

1

A & J Mobility - McFarland

4125 Terminal Drive

McFarland, WI 53558 (608) 579-1500

1, 3

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

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

1, 3

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

1,3

MobilityWorks - Sun Prairie 222 Linnerud Drive Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 395-2350

1

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

MobilityWorks - Waukesha N8 W22195 Johnson Drive

Ste 130 Waukesha, WI 53186 (888) 473-5402

1,3

Silver Cross Automotive Inc. - Maple Ridge 11393 Kingston St. Unit 4 Maple Ridge, BC V2X 0Y7 (877) 215-7609

1

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

1

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

1, 3

MobilityWorks - Alexandria 5751 General Washington Dr Alexandria, VA 22312 (571) 421-2647

1

United Access - Sumner 6015 160th Avenue East Sumner, WA 98390 (253) 863-4744

1, 2, 3

WEST VIRGINIA

Total Mobility Services Inc - Hurricane 146 Stricklin Rd

Hurricane, WV 25526-6734 (304) 727-9478

1, 3

WISCONSIN

A & J Mobility - De Pere

1330 Mid Valley Drive

De Pere, WI 54115

(920) 632-4882

1, 3

A & J Mobility - Eau Claire

2650 Prospect Drive

Eau Claire, WI 54703

(715) 874-6630

1, 3

CANADA

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

Silver Cross Automotive Inc. - Edmonton 14568-116 Ave.

Edmonton, AB T5M 3E9 (844) 799-5464

1

ONTARIO

Conval-Aid/Liftability

2600 Lancaster Road

Ottawa, ON K1B 4Z4 (613) 738-2721

1

Courtland Mobility

1355 Artisans Court Unit B

Burlington, ON L7L 5Y2 (800) 354-8138

1, 2, 3

Goldline Mobility & Conversions

762 Industrial Road

London, ON N5V 3N7 (519) 453-0480

1, 2, 3

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

QUEBEC

Adaptation 04 Inc

3025 rue Girard

Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 2M4

(819) 372-0102

1, 3

Centre de L’auto StLambert

145 Damase Breton

St-Lambert de Lauzon, QC

G0S 2W0

(866) 641-0419

1, 3

Eureka Solutions - Levis

107-829 J-Ambroise Craig

Levis, QC G7A 2N2

(866) 562-2555

1

Eureka SolutionsLongueuil

2755 Montee St Hubert

Longueuil, QC J3Y 4H6

(866) 562-2555

1, 3

Eureka SolutionsSherbrooke

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

SASKATCHEWAN

Golden Mobility & Rehab Ltd - Saskatoon

3150A Faithfull Avenue

Saskatoon, SK S7K 8H3

(306) 242-9060

1, 3

PrairieHeart Mobility

3033 Saskatchewan Drive

Regina, SK S4T 1H5

(306) 584-8456

1, 3

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

Welcome to the BOD: Michelle Szumski

By Brittney McMahan MANAGER OF COMMUNICATIONS & SOCIAL

As you can see on page 4, we have a number of new board members this year. One of these new faces was happy to sit down and introduce herself to our membership. Though she is no stranger to the industry, or to NMEDA, please read on to get to know a little bit more about Michelle Szumski, Program Specialist at Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation, and one of our new Representatives at Large.

1. Tell us about your history in the auto mobility industry.

I am the Program Specialist for Assistive and Rehabilitation Technology for Texas Workforce Commission-Vocational Rehabilitation. I provide policy and program support, planning of services, internal and external education and training of Assistive Technology, Vehicle Modification, Durable Medical Equipment and Home/Job Modification Texas.

2. Why were you interested in joining the NMEDA BOD?

I am very excited to join the BOD and assist in anyway possible to supply safe and reliable transportation to people with a disability. As a power wheelchair user, I can’t imagine not being able to independently get in my vehicle and drive. This is something able bodied people sometimes take for granted.

3. What do you view as the #1 benefit from being a NMEDA member?

Networking, collaborating and working with like minded individuals who are developing and focused on creating innovation and safe solutions for a person with a disability.

4. What are you looking forward to most at the next NMEDA conference?

Not to just keep repeating myself, lol, but this is the one place I feel we are all working towards the same goal. I look forward to seeing new strategies and equipment. Also, getting to work face to face with the manufacturers about what needs and trends we are seeing in Vocational Rehabilitation in Texas.

5. What would you say to a nonmember about why they should become a member?

In no other organization will you have a front row seat to information, education and working alongside the most compassionate and selfless individuals and companies for the benefit of persons with a disability.

6. What else would you like to share?

To share a little bit about myself, I am married and very happy with our blended family. Together, my husband, and I have six grown, and many of them married, children. We are super exited to enter the grandparent stage of our lives. We have two grandchildren with two on the way. And what family would be complete without dogs? We have two small dogs that allow us to live with them, their names are Millie and Charlie.

I hold a master’s degree in education from the University of Texas at Austin. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Six Sigma: Rapid Process Improvement (RPI) Practitioner.

MEMBER NOTICE

Brittney McMahan New Manager of Communications and Social

You may have notied some new faces in the staff directory. NMEDA is thrilled to announce Brittney McMahan has recently joined NMEDA as our new Manager of Communications and Social. Some of you may recognize Brittney from the NMEDA Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio where she stepped in to assist with the registration table. We are thrilled to have Brittney with us full-time.

Please join us as we welcome Brittney to the NMEDA team.

Toby Cummings New CEO

We are also very excited to announce Toby Cummings has been hired as our new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 10, 2023.

Cummings comes to the association from the International Municipal Signal Association, a 126-year-old certifying body of public safety professionals, where he served as Executive Director for the last four years. Cummings succeeds Danny Langfield, NMEDA’s CEO since 2016.

See page 25 for a letter from Toby to our members.

Irecently conducted a deep dive into an obscure marketing podcast during a pacific northwest road trip (naturally). My literal and figurative journeys were nothing short of enlightening – I laughed (Voice Marketing is not what I thought it was), I cried (Neuromarketing?!?), and the “Headlines” episode particularly moved me. A truly unbelievable number of headline “categories” currently exist, including emotional, relational, wordplay, pain point, how-to, numerical, announcement, question, and of course, old faithful: clickbait.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS REPORT

GR Report: Clickbait Edition

By Amy Schoppman NMEDA DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & PUBLIC POLICY

conference in Kansas City, MO. The fourth iteration of NMEDA’s “VR VIP” Program has been expanded to include Canadian in addition to U.S. representatives, and we’ll be welcoming more VIPs than ever before. I work frequently with these valued partners – they are dedicated to facilitating superior adaptive driving outcomes for their VR clients,

prepared with all of your burning questions for Voc Rehab professionals to answer. Finally, don’t miss the first ever VR VIP Meet & Greet on Sunday, October 1, immediately following the joint NMEDA-ADED session. The only thing cringe-worthy about these VR pros would be missing out on a threeday networking session with them.

That last one is not typically my preference but I’m experimenting with different ways to engage and inform readers about NMEDA’s government and policy activities. Let me know how I did at Amy.Schoppman@ nmeda.org.

The 10 Most Cringe-Worthy Facts About Voc Rehab Conference Attendees

Psych, there is nothing cringeworthy about dozens of state-level decisionmakers attending this fall’s

and they will be looking to connect with manufacturers as well as their province or state’s finest auto mobility dealers. If you spot a VR VIP in the Expo, take the opportunity to expand their awareness and understanding of your company’s latest innovations.

If you stop at the VR-focused table during the Industry Roundtable Discussions, be sure to come

The Shocking Truth About Why Millennials Are Obsessed with VAEIA Implementation

This one isn’t entirely false given that I’m a Millennial and I’m not afraid to admit that I’m legitimately obsessed with VAEIA implementation, but now that I’ve got your attention: VA regional offices have begun to receive interim claim processing

I work frequently with these valued partners – they are dedicated to facilitating superior adaptive driving outcomes for their VR clients, and they will be looking to connect with manufacturers as well as their province or state’s finest auto mobility dealers.”

guidance addressing the AAE and auto grant elements of the Veterans Auto and Education Improvement Act of 2022. (Refresher: On January 5, 2023, Congress enacted legislation that amends existing law to (1) include non-articulating trailers as a category of approved automobile adaptive equipment and (2) increase the [currently once-in-a-lifetime] frequency of the [currently $24,115.12] auto grant for eligible veterans.) As I await VA confirmation that the guidance I’ve reviewed is official and will be applied nationally, I’m encouraged by the agency’s progress and suspect that our desired implementation timeline (October 1, 2023) will be met.

The ONE Thing Taylor Swift Has in Common with NMEDA’s Price Survey

Influence. In the nearly 20 years since the first price survey was conducted, NMEDA has established itself as the premier resource for external stakeholders seeking auto mobility industry data. Government partners

in the U.S. and Canada prefer to make data-driven decisions, and if they can’t rely on NMEDA to provide that data, they will seek it elsewhere. Hence, the Auto Mobility Price Survey (AMPS). Data collection closed on July 15 (thank you to all dealers that participated!) and the reports – which government agencies typically use to establish payment parameters for auto mobility equipment – will be issued in early September.

A friendly reminder for dealers that completed this year’s survey: you now have the ability to log in to your AMPS account – whenever, wherever – and compare your dealership’s data against the industry as a whole; filter survey results by variable; generate detailed and customized pricing reports; and access additional business tools that can boost competitive intelligence. The AMPS platform is a one-stop shop for accessing, evaluating, and comparing the latest industry pricing data, and access to the most thorough pricing snapshot of the auto mobility industry is now a free NMEDA member benefit that was established to help members of all sizes make more informed business decisions.

The Secret Connection Between VA Prompt Payment and Your Zodiac Sign

There isn’t one, but there is a connection between submitting past-due invoices (PDI) to NMEDA’s PDI Program and getting those pastdue invoices paid: over $250,000 in late VA payments to dealers were collected this spring. Another exclusive members-only benefit, we can help get your VA invoices resolved sooner and more frequently whether you’re a Capricorn or a Sagittarius. For program details, please visit https://nmeda.org/ advocacy/advocacy-resources/pdi/ (providing a link for the Tauruses because I know they probably won’t look it up themselves).

A friendly reminder for dealers that completed this year’s survey: you now have the ability to log in to your AMPS account – whenever, wherever – and compare your dealership’s data against the industry as a whole; filter survey results by variable; generate detailed and customized pricing reports; and access additional business tools that can boost competitive intelligence. .”

Bridge to Mobility was founded last fall as the only national nonprofit organization dedicated solely to increasing accessibility to wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs). The Bridge to Mobility Mission Team and Mission Partners have been the driving force in mobilizing the WAV industry to accelerate accessibility. We provide last-dollar funding to support wheelchair users in their efforts to obtain a WAV. Working with our Mission Partners and Mission Team, we are having a significant impact on the lives of wheelchair users, caretakers and families. Bridge to Mobility works exclusively with NMEDA QAP dealers

A New Nonprofit: Bridge to Mobility

By Gerhard Schmidt Bridge to Mobility

member.

Did you know?

• 96% of wheelchair users do not have access to a WAV. This severely impacts employment and educational opportunities, medical outcomes and daily living. More than 2 million people hope they can one day afford a WAV and find the independence they only dream of today.

• 45% of the population does not have access to public wheelchair transportation.

• If you have a disability, you are 150% more likely to live in poverty, 12% less likely to graduate from high

by leaders known by the NMEDA community: Marilyn Clark (wife of the late Taylor Clark,) Bill Koeblitz, Nick Gutwein and Gerhard Schmidt, to focus on accelerating accessibility. While there have been other organizations in the past with a similar mission, Bridge to Mobility has successfully developed an industrywide collaboration and strategic partnerships, as well as a passionate, energetic and skilled mission team that includes representation from WAV industry manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and finance companies. This entire, multi-layered team is dedicated to the continued success of Bridge to Mobility. The NMEDA community - not just one company - can celebrate with each grant that Bridge to Mobility awards to a wheelchair user so they can finally secure a WAV. The Bridge to Mobility team is driven by our four core values:

• Inclusion

• Transparency

in the US and Canada to assist their clients in obtaining a WAV. Bridge to Mobility is also nonprofit NMEDA

school and 50% less likely to obtain a college degree or equivalent. Reliable, accessible and timely transportation is often the most significant barrier that wheelchair users need to overcome.

Collectively, we are committed to changing these statistics.

Bridge to Mobility was launched

• Excitement

• Empowerment

Industry-Wide Collaboration

From the start, Bridge to Mobility has been supported by several dealers, suppliers and vendors in the WAV industry. These companies and their employees have made a significant

Bridge to Mobility works exclusively with NMEDA QAP dealers in the US and Canada to assist their clients in obtaining a WAV.”

Conference Sneak Peek

commitment to our mission. They financially support Bridge to Mobility, provide like-kind donations and volunteer their time to put our mission into action.

The list of our industry collaborators continues to grow. We encourage additional companies to join our mission to Accelerate Accessibility. As of this writing, our collaborators include:

Adaptive Driving Alliance (ADA)

Adaptive Vans

AMF Bruns

Banclease Acceptance

BraunAbility

Bussani Mobility Team

DriveMaster

Driverge

Howell Ventures/ SureGrip

Ilderton

MobilityWorks

Myle

30,000-50,000 people each year through a repertory of more than 85 works from nationally esteemed choreographers and a message of inclusion and accessibility; expands the reach of artistic possibilities while celebrating the universal spirit of dance.

Help Hope Live - raises money for medical bills, home modification, WAVs and other expenses through crowdfunding.

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA)

PSA

Q’Straint

Superior Van and Mobility

United Access

Vantage Mobility International (VMI)

We would love to discuss with you how you can join our mission.

Strategic Relationships Driving Synergistic Results

Bridge to Mobility works with like-minded nonprofits to achieve synergistic results in a combined, collaborative mission. Our nonprofit partners have particular expertise in accessible sports, arts and fundraising. The common theme is that by working together, we can accomplish more. As of this writing, our nonprofit partners include:

Access On the Go - promotes community accessibility, adaptive recreation and business profitability; advocates for the rights of people with disabilities.

Dancing Wheels - advocates globally for disability awareness, reaching

Help Our Military Heroes - delivers adaptive minivans to our wounded, injured and ill military heroes.

Operation Triageprovides emergency financial relief, mortgage-free homes and home remodeling to disabled veterans, first responders and active-duty service members to get their lives back on track and become productive members of their communities.

Wheelchair Lacrosse USA - organizes, develops and promotes the sport of wheelchair lacrosse while providing opportunities for people with disabilities to live active lifestyles.

Youth Challenge - brings together young people with physical disabilities and teen volunteers who inspire one another through adapted sports, recreation and social growth activities.

Bridge to Mobility continues to network with other nonprofits and nurture partnerships that will expand impact and create accessibility for all.

Energetic, Engaged and Passionate Volunteer Team

Bridge to Mobility has an energetic, engaged and passionate Mission Team, starting with our Board of Directors and committee members who contribute their time and financial resources to our mission. Our mission team includes a diverse group of skills and perspectives that provide consulting and direction to the organization.

Board of Directors

Marilyn Clark- Chair

Bill Koeblitz- Chair Emeritus, MobilityWorks

Paul Musso- Treasurer, ADA

David Black, Fischer Broyles, LP

Hadley Clark, Havas Health

Nick Gutwein, BraunAbility

Associate Board

Hadley Clark- Co Chair, Havas Health

Chris Paczak- Co Chair, MobilityWorks

Drew Basset, MobilityWorks

Joshua Boston, Adaptive Vans

Joe Canda, MobilityWorks

Alex Cook, Superior Van & Mobility

Ashley Crook, Howell Ventures/ SureGrip

Doug Curtis, VMI

Pat DeNobrega, PSA

Joe Garnett, BraunAbility

John Ilderton, Ilderton Conversions

Juan Pablo Soto, MobilityWorks

Dustin Paterniti, Driverge

TJ Shoemaker, MobilityWorks

Kelly Stobie, MobilityWorks

Megan Wegner, BraunAbility

Justin White, BraunAbility

Executive Advisory Council

Sam Cook, Superior Van & Mobility

Bryan Everett, MobilityWorks

Staci Kroon, BraunAbility

Danny Langfield, NMEDA

GUEST FEATURE (continued)

Alan Tobin, CBIZ

Education and Awareness Committee

Michael Shank-Chair, Myle

Ryan Baker, Wheelchair Lacrosse USA

Vince Robel

Martin Sweeney

Eric Thompson, Access on the Go Governance Committee

Greg Kiser- Chair, BraunAbility San Asbridge, MobilityWorks

Julie Boynton, Q’Straint

Jannette Conrad, VMI

Michael Dresdner

Russ Newton, Sure-Grip

The Bridge to Mobility Board of Directors has issued a challenge grant to NMEDA members. They will match NMEDA-related contributions, dollar for dollar, up to $140,000!

Education and Awareness

Through our website (www. bridgetomobility.org) and social media outreach, Bridge to Mobility

years.

Our grants are processed through NMEDA QAP dealers on behalf of the beneficiaries. Because the grants are intended to be “last-dollar funding,” and we are committed to serving as many people as possible, they are limited to $5,000 each. The application is completed by the QAP dealer with follow-up from Bridge to Mobility, if needed. Often other resources are introduced to the beneficiary and dealer to make owning a WAV possible. The application goes to the Grant Committee “blind,” meaning the dealer information is removed so each grant is judged completely on the merits of the situation.

As a nonprofit organization, Bridge to Mobility’s goal is 85% efficiency - meaning 85%+ of funds raised go

our website, we will automate the application process and provide an online status for applications. All approved grants are funded directly to the beneficiary.

Commitment to Safety and User Experience

Bridge to Mobility works through the NMEDA QAP dealer network. We believe that proper fitting, safety and compliance are serious matters for wheelchair users. Our grants are often to first-time WAV owners, and we know the NMEDA dealer network, experience and support are key factors to a rewarding experience. Furthermore, NMEDA’s commitment to safety and compliance through the Compliance Review Program ensures that all WAVs with a new conversion meet the applicable standards as of date of manufacture for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Transport Canada (TC) and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (F/CMVSS).

raises awareness about the need and impact of accessibility. We seek to be a leader in providing education on financial resources available in each state and province, alternative funding sources, basic financial literacy and NMEDA dealers best located to serve wheelchair users and their family.

Efficiency and Scalability

Bridge to Mobility is committed to an elevated level of efficiency and scalability, with a goal of 80 grants to wheelchair users per year and growing to 180 grants within three

directly to the individuals we support so they can secure a WAV. We are active in seeking competitive grants from foundations and corporations in order to increase our reach and impact.

Bridge to Mobility has automated Board and Committee functions and implemented a donor management system that is integrated with the organization’s website (www. bridgetomobility.org). We are committed to transparency of process. In the next release of

Please connect and share with us on Facebook or Linked-In and visit our website: www.bridgetomobility.org. We are looking forward to “Answering the Bell” with you at the Annual Conference in Kansas City September 30-October 2 and inviting you to Join our Mission Team! Together, we will Accelerate Accessibility!

“

The Bridge to Mobility Board of Directors has issued a challenge grant to NMEDA members. They will match NMEDArelated contributions, dollar for dollar, up to $140,000! ”

CEO’S MESSAGE

A Letter to Our Members

By Toby Cummings NMEDA CEO

NMEDA Members,

I am delighted to introduce myself as the newly appointed CEO of the premiere trade association serving the auto mobility equipment dealers industry. With great excitement, I step into this role, ready to embark on a journey of collaboration, evolution, and innovation alongside the dedicated volunteer leaders and association staff professionals that comprise NMEDA.

As I assume the position of CEO, I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Danny Langfield, our previous CEO. I want to express my gratitude to Danny for his invaluable contributions and leadership. Although Danny will now be taking on a different role within the industry in rolling out the Auto Mobility Research & Education Foundation (AMREF), his experience and wisdom will continue to be an asset to our organization.

Having dedicated over 25 years to successfully leading industry associations, I bring a vast experience and a deep understanding of the intricacies and dynamics of volunteer driven organizations. However, I am a firm believer that knowledge is limitless, and I am genuinely excited to learn from the leaders who have been instrumental in shaping this industry. Please know I will be reaching out to many of you to fully

grasp your pain points as well as opportunities that NMEDA may be able to address.

One of my top priorities as CEO will be to ensure the completion of our current strategic plan. By collaborating closely with our staff team, I aim to foster an environment of open communication, collaboration, and shared goals. Together, we will consolidate our efforts to successfully execute the strategic initiatives already in progress, laying a solid foundation for the future.

I am aware that our industry, as well as many others, is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, and changing customer expectations. While respecting our traditions and past achievements, I am committed to shaping a bright future for our auto mobility equipment dealers and manufacturers. By embracing innovation and fostering a culture of adaptability, we will navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

To the staff team in place, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your commitment and hard work. Your dedication is the backbone of our organization, and I am genuinely excited to collaborate with each and every one of you. Together, we will

nurture an inclusive, empowering work environment that fosters growth, encourages creativity, and ultimately drives our collective success.

In conclusion, I want to thank Chad Blake and all of the members of the NMEDA search committee and Board of Directors. I am honored to join NMEDA and to serve as your CEO. Together, we will build upon our accomplishments, learn from one another, and pave the way for a prosperous future in the auto mobility equipment industry. I am eager to embark on this exciting journey with all of you and I invite you to join me as we shape the next chapter in our industry’s story.

Sincerely,

Toby Cummings, CAE CEO, National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

Rev Up Your Recruiting With the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit

By Jack Borgmeyer Borgmeyer Marketing Group President

Finding the right fit for any organization can be challenging. From placing hiring ads, to conducting interviews, to the onboarding process - filling a vacant job is a time-consuming process…especially in the auto mobility world. But what if there was a way for you to reach prospective technicians and inform them about opportunities in a field they were not yet aware of? With the Tech Recruitment Toolkit from NMEDA, there is.

What is the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit?

As the name suggests, the toolkit is a collection of materials intended to help inform students and interested

individuals about the great benefits of a career in auto mobility.

Ranging from brochures to customizable videos, these materials are easy to use and a great way to attract prospective candidates during graduation season, career fairs and dealership events.

What’s Included in the Kit?

Included in the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit are the following: a print-ready trifold brochure, two sets of digital display ads and social media posts, three customizable videos and a PowerPoint presentation. These materials are versatile, being usable in a variety of recruitment situations. Additionally, these assets can be personalized to include your dealership’s contact information, letting your audience act on the dynamic information presented.

Inform Prospective Candidates With the Trifold Brochure

A simple guide that outlines what an auto mobility career entails, the trifold brochure introduces prospective candidates to the benefits and responsibilities, while doubling

as a business card containing your dealership’s contact information. The tri-fold brochure is the most versatile asset in the tool kit and can be used in many situations, such as at a job fair or for a direct-mail campaign.

Reach Technicians Where They’re Already Searching With Digital Assets

In addition to physical materials, the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit also comes with digital advertising and social media posts, letting you use the power of the internet and social media to recruit new candidates. Like the brochure, these assets can be customized to include your dealership’s logos and are designed to inform viewers about the benefits of a career in auto mobility.

Powered by search engines, platforms like Google are a great opportunity to reach prospective candidates. In today’s digital age, many job searches start with a web search, and thanks to keyword search and search engine optimization (SEO), these platforms can place ads within relevant online content. This allows your ads to be seen where your target audience is already searching, making the message more likely to resonate with them.

the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit is a great supplemental resource to aid in presenting the benefits and responsibilities to a group of students at a trade-school or a job fair. This presentation is a great overview that not only informs prospective candidates about career opportunities in the world of auto mobility, but also provides them the opportunity to ask additional questions and have their immediate questions answered.

How Can My Dealership Access the Toolkit?

As a member of NMEDA, you will be able to access the toolkit through the portal on our website. From there, you will be able to download a collection of print-ready materials and digital assets that can be easily edited to include your dealership’s information.

Learn More About NMEDA’s Tech Recruitment Toolkit at

the NMEDA Annual Conference & Auto Mobility Expo

Engage Prospective Technicians With the Benefits of Auto Mobility Through Testimonials

For some, getting a first-hand account is the best way to learn about something new. That’s just what the customizable videos in the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit do.

A series of 15, 30 and 60 second videos, these videos detail what benefits come with a career in auto mobility. From structured schedules to helping others live their most mobile lives, these videos help prospective candidates get a concise and informative explanation on why they should pursue a career in the field.

These videos can be included in both live presentations and on social media.

Interested in learning more about the NMEDA Tech Recruitment Toolkit? Want advice and tips about how to effectively use the materials? Join us on September 30th during the NMEDA Annual Conference & Auto Mobility Expo in Kansas City, and get expertise and recruitment strategies from industry expert Jack Borgmeyer. Learn the best practices and the best ways to leverage the toolkit to ensure success in your recruitment.

Give A Powerful Live Presentation With Our PowerPoint Template

While posting materials on the web is a great way to have a broad reach, face-to-face methods of recruiting should be considered. The PowerPoint Presentation provided in

How to Attract New Tech Talent with NMEDA’s Custom Recruitment Toolkit

Jack will be diving into the details of the Tech Recruitment Toolkit and how easy is it to customize and use.

Learn more about this session on page 31.

WHEELCHAIR PASSENGER BOARDING SYSTEMS

TWO UNIQUE SOLUTIONS FOR PASSENGER ONBOARDING AND DEBOARDING. Fully-integrated, crash-tested, heavy-duty winch systems featuring dual automatic retractors and an ergonomic thumb controller.

Learn more at: qstraint.com/INQLINE

MAKING SAFETY ACCESSIBLE

MYTHBUSTERS Presents: MYTH: FACT:

AEVIT has a 10 year service life

The AEVIT System can not be moved between vehicles

AEVIT Input adjustability is very limited

With the release of AEVIT 2.0 in 2008, there is no longer a service life limit

The AEVIT System is able to be transferred and reinstalled in virtually any vehicle

AEVIT Inputs have a broad range of adjustability both mechanically and electronically to fit the needs of any driver

All cars have to be shipped to Maine for installation

The AEVIT System is primarily intended for drivers wanting full control of both steering and gas/brake, and not for drivers whose only need is gas/brake control

There are AEVIT installation facilities all through out the United States. Steering columns do not need to be shipped out of country for service and modification

The AEVIT System is designed to fit the individual needs of the driver with the ability to be modified as the drivers’ needs change

ANSWERING THE BELL

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

SUNDAY EVENING HAPPY HOUR

Voc Rehab VIP Meet & Greet

Sunday, October 1 | 6:30–7:30 pm

In Case You Missed It: NMEDA has been offering a unique “conference within a conference” experience for Vocational Rehabilitation Agency professionals since 2020, delivering exclusive education sessions and hosting private receptions for these important state-level decisionmakers. This year the Voc Rehab VIPs will be moving from behind closed doors and into the spotlight with our Meet and Greet reception immediately following the Colo Networking Session. Savor the chance to forge new alliances and partnerships as you indulge in refreshing drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Both NMEDA and ADED attendees are encouraged to use this time to connect with the program managers, rehab engineers, and ATPs operating in their state(s) – swap stories, ask questions, exchange insights, and gain fresh perspectives on the ever-evolving Voc Rehab landscape.

RETURNING IN

2023 Industry Roundtable Discussions

Sunday, October 1 | 3:30–5:15 pm

Five Learning Tracks

Technician Training

What are roundtables? Simply put, Industry Roundtables are a group of 8-12 auto mobility folks like you, seated around a table discussing a specific topic of interest. Each table has a moderator to keep the discussion flowing, but they are not a subject matter expert. We’ll leave the expertise up to you!

What will be discussed? Based on your feedback, topics will include: Maximizing the Rental Department; QAPx & DocuTrack; Managing Reconditioning Costs; NMEDA’s all-new Research Foundation, AMREF; Culture Management; The Impossible Customer and more...

If you have ideas for a specific topic, let us know. Email conference@nmeda.org with your ideas.

Service Shop Management

Dealership Management

Dealer Sales & Marketing

Innovation & Evolution

Choose from one of three technician training options:

BraunAbility MSE, VMI Technician Training or NMEDA MSS.

*Each training is limited to 25 participants.

Sunday, October

The Nuts & Bolts of Profitability, Pt. I

Part one of this two-part workshop will feature a dealer panel discussing how to implement small steps to make bigger changes. Avoid getting overwhelmed. You don’t have to move a mountain to improve service…

PANELISTS

MODERATOR

Justin Riendeau BraunAbility

TBD

If you’re interested in this learning track, register as you would normally and select “Service Shop Management” as an Add-On to your registration ($0). Space is limited to the first 50 registrants—so don’t wait to register!

Alternative Funding Sources: Creative Ways to Make a Deal Go

This session will not only acquaint you with funding sources you may not be aware of, but will reveal who can help you navigate them. Case studies will be included, PLUS: the pros & cons of various fundraising platforms.

PANELISTS

MODERATOR

Alex Cook Superior Van & Mobility

Ashley McLaughlin – Help Hope Live

Gerhard Schmidt – Bridge to Mobility

Dan Bussani – Bussani Mobility Team

Because You Can’t Afford A Super Bowl Ad

Back and better than ever, the 2023 model of the indefatigable influencers panel will feature some fresh faces and a new twist: how to put QAP to work for you. If you are just writing a dues check and passing an audit, you’re leaving value on the table.

PANELISTS

Dustin Paterniti– Driverge

MODERATOR

Russ Newton Sure Grip Hand Controls

Michelle Szumski– Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation

Jenny Nordine– Driving to Independence

Craig Rogers – Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

Is the ICE Age Over? Electrification & Accessibility, Pt. II

A lot has happened in electrification since this panel convened in Charlotte last year, with OEM’s committing literally billion$ to the EV future. Join us as new panelists with new insights discuss the sunsetting of the internal combustion engine (ICE).

PANELISTS

MODERATOR

Dave Goch

Webster, Chamberlain & Bean

Craig Schrimsher – BraunAbility

Philip Angelechio – VMI

(Additional Panelists TBD)

NMEDA Manufacturer Service School (MSS)

The Nuts & Bolts of Profitability, Pt. II

Part two of this workshop will build off of the morning session and provide you with specific processes to implement in your facility to improve your bottom line, one step at a time. (Preregistration req.)

How to Attract New Tech Talent with NMEDA’s Custom Recruitment Toolkit

We all know finding qualified, knowledgeable techs today is as hard as it’s ever been - that’s why NMEDA developed the Tech Recruitment Toolkit. Discover how easy it is to customize these free, members-only resources for video, social and in-person campaigns, then learn how to utilize these resources to attract quality candidates for your store.

Getting the Subprime Customer Done: How to Close More Deals

With WAV prices at all-time highs, credit tightening, and interest rates rising, the subprime customer is harder to get done than ever. This session will delve into deal structure, setting realistic expectations and how to overcome objections so you can close more deals.

It’s the End of the World As We Know It: ChatGPT & Auto Mobility

Do you feel fine? Well, neither does anyone else. Join Scott for this cutting-edge session on the explosion of AI and how you can harness its unique power for your dealership… before it enslaves all mankind!

Craig Baker Mobility Trust Group

Jack Borgmeyer Borgmeyer Marketing Group

Fred Mannix BraunAbility Justin Riendeau BraunAbility

Scott Meyer FIVEMIN.AI

CODES

NMEDA 2023 CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

PROVIDE CARD DETAILS OR MAIL REGISTRATION AND CHECK TO NMEDA BY SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

$10,000

Become the exclusive sponsor for the only ADED/NMEDA joint general session for the entire conference. This opportunity includes a 2–3 minute speaking opportunity in front of ADED and NMEDA’s combined attendees as well as a seat drop for all individuals attending the session.

$7,500

Opportunity to address attendees for 2–3 minutes at the NMEDA Opening General Session and introduce our Keynote speaker. This sponsorship also includes a seat drop for all individuals attending the Opening General Session.

$7,500

Opportunity to address ADED attendees for 2-3 minutes at the ADED opening general session and introduce our keynote speaker. This sponsorship also includes a seat drop for all individuals attending the Opening General Session.

Exclusive opportunity to showcase your company on the interior doors of all elevators at the Westin Charlotte host hotel for the duration of the conference.

$7,500

Get your company on the bag of every ADED and NMEDA attendee. No cheap totes here, we protect your brand with a quality bag. Why? To give you continued brand exposure long after the event! You’re welcome.

What is the only thing better than visiting with conference attendees all day!? Having them return to their hotel room to find a lovely item has been magically delivered to them by one of their favorite vendors while they were just speaking with you!

$5,000

Put your brand directly around the neck and in view of every ADED and NMEDA attendee at the events.

$5,000

Do you love Vocational Rehab Professionals? Do you want them to know you love them? If so, this is the sponsorship for you. With branding opportunities throughout the reception and being noted as the Presenting Sponsor on all marketing materials, there is no doubt that they will feel the love!

INTERESTED? GREAT—CONTACT US TODAY!

$5,000

With a short outdoor walk from the hotel to the convention center, prepare conference attendees for the potential elements with an umbrella in their welcome bags with your logo right on it! And if it doesn’t rain, we believe Socrates said it best when he proclaimed, “Everyone needs an umbrella!”

Joint General Session Sponsor

NMEDA Keynote Address

ADED Keynote Address

Elevator Cling

Room Drop

Welcome Bags

Lanyard

Umbrella

Voc Rehab VIP Reception Presenting Sponsor

Host Hotel Escalator Clings

$4,500

What if we told you there was a way to make sure all conference attendees could see your branding at the host hotel? With the escalator cling at the Marriott everyone will see you. With branding going up the glass of the escalator to the NMEDA opening general session, dealer round tables, the colo general session, the closing general session, and the NMEDA banquet—no attendee will miss it. And we didn’t even mention that the escalator is directly across from the hotel bar.

2/4Available

$3,500

Place your company directly in the path of the attendees as they make their way to the Kansas City Convention Center. With a full window cling outside of both the NMEDA and ADED entrances, no one will be able to miss your messaging.

Escalator Cling - NMEDA

$3,500

Do you want to make sure attendees see your brand before heading into the expo? Do you want to make sure attendees see your brand when they leave the expo? Then why not put your brand directly on the fulllength escalator that takes all NMEDA attendees to and from the expo hall?

3/4Available

Massive 8’ Quad Signs - NMEDA

$2,500

There will be no escaping your branding with this four-sided sign. Each side is 8’x3’, positioned in high traffic areas specifically targeting NMEDA attendees.

Escalator Clings - ADED

$2,500

Do you want to make sure attendees see your brand before heading into the expo? Do you want to make sure attendees see your brand when they leave the expo? Then why not put your brand directly on the full-length escalator that takes all ADED attendees to and from the expo hall?

Massive 8’ Quad Signs - ADED

$2,500

There will be no escaping your branding with this four-sided sign. Each side is 8’x3’, positioned in high traffic areas specifically targeting the ADED attendees.

Add-On Items

Available exclusively as an add-on for our sponsors and exhibitors.

Notepad & Pen

$2,500

Put your company logo front & center on a custom notepad & pen and into the bags of all ADED and NMEDA attendees of the conference. Stay top of mind as the attendees take notes throughout the education sessions during the show and after.

Program Ad

$1,250

Single page ad in on-site Program Books for all ADED and NMEDA attendees.

INTERESTED? GREAT—CONTACT US TODAY!

Bag Insert $750

Insert single advert/collateral into onsite welcome bag for all ADED and NMEDA attendees.

Convention Center Window Cling

Mobility Way

By Mike Savicki — Afterburner Communications NMEDA CONSULTANT

“Sixty-Five Going On Thirty”

Air Force Veteran, Debra Freed, makes every mile matter

Debra Freed is not the type who sits around and stays still for too long. In fact, she’s quite the opposite. To learn about her mobility journey, it’s best to follow her from behind the wheel and try to keep up with her pace.

Let’s start in 1977 when, at age 19, she got her first car. Driving meant everything to her. Exploring, visiting new places and discovering new

things almost daily, Debra cherished the opportunity to get out on the road. Her foster father, who owned a gas station, was keen to her sense of adventure and made sure she, as with all of his children, knew the basics of auto repair and maintenance so they could take care of themselves and their own vehicles.

Four years later, when she enlisted in the Air Force, those skills helped lay the foundation for her job. The stereotypical female secretary job, as she recalls, was the last thing she wanted so she chose to work on jet engines as a hands-on career.

While relaxing atop a wall outside her overseas barracks one evening, she fell and sustained an incomplete L2 fracture. As fate might have it, while she recovered, Debra was assigned light duty as a secretary. Pushing to get back on regular duty a short time later, while working on afterburners, she fell off a stool and reinjured the same vertebrae. Two days later, when it became difficult to walk, doctors made the decision to fuse her L1 to L3. By late 1984, not back to one

hundred percent health, she made the decision to leave the military.

The road again became her friend.

“Uncle Sam pays you for seven days to go from one coast to the other and because I was so excited to have that sense of freedom again, well, I took six weeks,” Debra Freed, now 65, recalls. That first civilian cross country trip was memorable. She bussed from California to Nevada in order to pick up and temporarily register a new car then went back through Los Angeles and San Diego before turning east and visiting Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Florida. Heading up the coast through Georgia, she visited Maryland and then reconnected with her brother (whom she had not seen since they were separated at age two) in Pennsylvania before arriving in her home state of Connecticut. The trip, as she remembers it, was as much about healing as hope.

In the years that followed, Debra has become active as a strong voice for veterans. While serving as Executive Director of the New England Chapter

Paralyzed Veterans of America, she put more than 100,000 miles on her personal vehicle in four years, primarily crisscrossing the Northeast. She has advocated for veterans issues in Washington, D.C., and remains a fixture at the annual Massachusetts Women’s Veterans Conference. Her social media is not only a source of veterans issues and updates but one of inspiration, as well.

Work is important to her (she has worked through spinal cord injury, chemotherapy and a mastectomy), so adaptive sports have become a second full-time job not only for the competition but also for the love of traveling to and from training and events. First it was handcycling where she represented PVA on the national circuit (driving to most events across the country) and now it is both parabowling and pistol shooting. She primarily credits the annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games for those introductions.

Using 2023 as a snapshot of her schedule, here’s how she balances life as both one of eight members of the 2023 Parabowling Team USA (officially recognized as a Paralympic sport in 2019 by the IPC) and as a VA stipend qualified and national caliber pistol shooting athlete.

Buckle up and follow along if you can. After beginning the year with a New Year’s Day shooting session, she and her partner of 26 years, Joy Lawrence, headed west to Las Vegas for the 2023 Parabowling Team USA trials. She was selected to the team again then she and Joy toured the Hoover Dam and a few of Nevada’s State Parks. It was then immediately back to air, sport and free pistol shooting as she trained at the USOPC

Training Center in Colorado Springs then flew to Germany for classification and competition. June meant a drive south with her coach for USA Shooting Nationals at Fort Benning (formerly Ft. Moore), Georgia. And upon returning to her Framingham, Massachusetts, home, yes, she went back to her 5-6 day per week shooting schedule.

As an example to all adaptive athletes young and old, Debra Freed is as much a veteran as she is an athlete. When she began pistol training two years ago, answering a question from Team USA’s Parashooting coach, Brenda Silva, Debra explained why she works, trains, travels and competes so hard.

“Simple,” she says. “It is my opportunity to represent my country again on the national and international stage.”

Through the years Debra’s automotive mobility needs have changed. At the time of her discharge, although mobility impaired, Debra’s VA rating did not qualify her for hand controls so she spent years behind the wheel of a minivan loading and unloading her manual wheelchair. Now, nearly four decades post lumbar injury, the progression of her paralysis paired with a second T11, T12 vertabrae fracture sustained in 2019 fall from a therapeutic horse during a veteran’s expo has changed both her mobility needs and her rating. She is finally eligible for the hand controls she has long known she needed.

As a loyal customer of Mobility Works in Attleboro, Massachusetts, her current vehicle of choice is a hybrid 2022 Toyota Sienna. Purchasing it coming out of COVID was challenging so she appreciated the personalized care she received.

She cannot emphasize enough how her time on the road has changed with the hybrid, too.

“With all the driving I do, to be able to get more than five hundred miles on a sixteen gallon tank is simply incredible,” she said. “My trips have changed and become so much more economical and enjoyable.”

Yes, if you are wondering, Debra Freed has visited all fifty states, the majority through either military service or athletics.

If Debra Freed makes the Paralympic team as a P2 class shooter in 2024 she will be 67. Making the team in 2028, she will be 72. But to her, age is simply a number. She proudly shares that she is “sixty-five going on thirty.”

If you count all the miles she has driven in her nearly five decades behind the wheel, she is already a champion. Age and miles come to her with effort, energy and enthusiasm. Debra Freed is making every single one of her miles count.

Are You Ready For Roundtables?

Meet the New NMEDA CEO

An open discussion with Toby Cummings.

Talking Tech Troubles

Availability, competency & more…

Moderator - TBD

Moderator - Toby Cummings

All the best ideas. That work.

Moderators - Russ Newton & Co.

The Impossible Customer

Come tell your stories about the ones you WISH had gotten away!

Moderator - TBD

R-E-L-A-X. Relax. Can It Be Done?

Coping with the craziness of the auto mobility world.

Moderator - TBD

QAPx & DocuTrack

Frustrations, opportunities & wins.

Moderators - Paul Musso & Chuck Hardy

My Biggest Problem Is Techs? Inventory? Insomnia? Anything goes in this open Q&A.

Moderator - TBD

What is AMREF, Anyway?

An open chat about NMEDA's all-new Research Foundation subsidiary, AMREF.

Moderat

Culture Management

Gotta get the people part right.

Moderator - TBD

Maximizing the Rental Department

Meet the millionaire next door

Moderators - TBD

Managing Reconditioning Costs

The balancing act: can you get out what you put in?

Moderators - TBD

(Editor’s Note - This article is being reprinted (with permission) from Texas Dealer April 2023 published by the Texas Independent Auto Dealers Association.)

It is critical that business owners correctly determine whether the individuals providing services are employees or independent contractors. Business owners should always consult their tax and/or legal advisor regarding these matters. The IRS may evaluate whether the individual is properly classified. Misclassification of an individual that may be considered to be an employee (W-2) vs. a 1099-Misc (Subcontractor) could result in the employer being liable for the Social Security and Medicare taxes of the individual as well as the employer matching portions and federal unemployment insurance premiums. Also, the misclassification of an independent contractor, which should be an employee, could impact compliance and related issues regarding the business’s 401K or group health insurance plan. In addition to the IRS, states may also search for state unemployment insurance reporting of individuals improperly treated as independent contractors, we often hear employers using the phrase “1099 employees”, which may be the first indication that there is an issue. Generally, you must withhold and

Determining Whether a Worker is an Employee or an Independent Contractor

By: Robert N . Parmas, CPA CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Principal

deposit income taxes, social security taxes, and Medicare taxes from the wages paid to an employee. Additionally, you must also pay the matching employer portion for Social Security and Medicare taxes, as well as pay unemployment tax on wages paid to an employee. Generally, you do not have to withhold or pay any taxes on payments to independent contractors.

An individual is an independent contractor or in business for themselves. If the individual is a business owner or contractor who provides services to other businesses, then they are generally considered self-employed and may possibly be considered an independent contractor.

Determining Whether the Individuals Providing Services are Employees or Independent Contractors

Before you can determine how to treat payments you make for services, you must first know the business relationship that exists between you and the person performing the service. The person performing the service may be:

An independent contractor

An employee (common-law employee)

A statutory employee

A statutory non-employee

A government worker

In determining whether the person providing service is an employee or an independent contractor, all information that provides evidence of the degree of control and independence must be considered.

Common Law Rules

Facts provide evidence of the degree of control in independence fall into three categories:

Behavioral: Does the company control or have the right to control what the worker does and how the worker does his or her job?

Financial: Are the business aspects of the worker’s job controlled by the payer? (these include things like how a worker has paid, whether expenses are reimbursed, who provides tools/ supplies, etc.)

Type of Relationship: Are there written contracts or employeetype benefits (i.e. pension plan, insurance, vacation, pay, etc.)? Will the relationship continue, and is the work performed a key aspect of the business?

Businesses must weigh all these

factors when determining whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. Some factors may indicate that the worker is an employee, while other factors indicate that the worker is an independent contractor. There is no “magic” or set number of factors that “makes” the worker an employee or an independent contractor, and no one factor stands alone in making this determination. Also, factors which are relevant in one situation may not be relevant in another. The keys are to look at the entire relationship and consider the extent of the right to direct and control the worker. Finally, document each of the factors used in coming up with the determination.

Generally, employees are hired to perform work at the company’s direction. Independent contractors have more autonomy as they are hired to complete a certain job or task. Some consideration, maybe as follows:

-Does the employer establish hours for the individual, or does the individual work at their own discretion? Is the individual essentially working alongside current employees doing similar work and being directed similarly? Does the individual have set hours where they need to work and be paid at a similar or the same time and/or paid hourly?

-Does the individual essentially work the same part-time or full-time hours as an employee does and use the same equipment or tools as others?

Is the individual required to go to company training?

These considerations are only a guide to helping the employer understand some of the considerations the IRS and regulators may consider in

evaluating whether an individual is an employee or an independent contractor.

Form SS-8

If it is still unclear whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor after reviewing the three categories of evidence, then an SS-8 can be filed with the IRS. The form may be filed by either the business or the worker. The IRS will review the facts and circumstances in officially determining the workers’ status.

Misclassification of Employees Consequences of Treating an Employee as an Independent Contractor

If you classify an employee as an independent contractor and you have no reasonable basis for doing so, then you may be held liable for employment taxes for that worker as well as the matching employment taxes plus federal and state unemployment insurance plus possible penalties.

Relief Provisions

If you have a reasonable basis for not treating a worker as an employee, then you may be relieved from having to pay employment taxes for that worker if certain information is filed.

Misclassified Workers Can File Social Security Tax Form

Workers who believe they have been improperly classified as independent contractors by an employer can use Form 8919, Uncollected Social Security and Medicare Tax on Wages, to figure and report the employee’s share of uncollected Social Security, and Medicare taxes due to their compensation.

Voluntary Classification Settlement Program

The Voluntary Classification Settlement Program (VCSP) is an optional program that provides taxpayers with an opportunity to reclassify their workers as employees for future tax periods for employment tax purposes with partial relief from federal employment taxes for eligible taxpayers that agree to prospectively treat their workers (or a class or group of workers) as employees. To participate in this voluntary program, the taxpayer must meet certain eligibility requirements. Apply to participate in the VCSP by filing Form 8952, Application for Voluntary Classification Settlement Program, in order to enter into a closing agreement with the IRS.

In addition to the general IRS guidance, the United States Department of Labor has issued guidelines to determine whether they are a W-2 employee under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) or independent contractor. Also, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has also issued certain guidelines. There are various facts and circumstances that must be assessed in determining proper classification. Therefore, the business owner needs to be aware that the different agencies are looking at the classification of workers, employees vs. independent contractor, and that the owner should seek assistance from their tax or legal counsel, regarding these matters to ensure as much compliance as possible.

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

If you have any questions about the contents of this article, or about the NMEDA CRP, contact Harry Baergen at 778.888.2210.

CRP Third-Party Test Lab Program

By Harry Baergen – Autoregs Consulting NMEDA CRP COORDINATOR

For about twelve years now the NMEDA Compliance Review Program (CRP) has been preliminarily reviewing test reports received from adaptive vehicle alterers. In turn, CRP sends the documents to independent industry experts outside of NMEDA for third party review. To defray the cost of these reviewers and the administrative overhead, NMEDA charges $2000.00 for each vehicle model and $1000.00 for each component. The ultimate goal is to have these vehicles posted on the NMEDA website as compliant to applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (F/CMVSS) and to certain NMEDA requirements. Due to some resistance to the review cost and growing proprietary concerns about conveying large files through CRP, and because of the reluctance of some companies to check with CRP before using unacceptable test vehicles, NMEDA recently decided to

offer the industry another test review option. This option is called the “CRP third-party test lab program” or “the accredited lab program.” This is where the actual test lab conducting the test becomes the third-party reviewer.

At first, when the idea to trust test labs with the responsibility of reviewing their own test reports, paid for by their clients, was floating around NMEDA there was, admittedly, some hesitancy on the part of CRP. The idea that CRP would only see the final results of the testing and the lab would retain all the test details, such as videos, photographs, graphs, charts, test equipment calibration information, test data, environmental conditions, observations, failures, etc., was a little troubling. There was also the notion that it could diminish NMEDA’s self-regulating brand, the third-party reviewers. However, now that the accredited lab program has been in effect for over a year and

The first positive aspect of the program is that it requires an initial test plan to be submitted to CRP by the test lab for approval, preferably before the test vehicles are purchased.”

appears to be working the up-side of the program is becoming more evident.

The first positive aspect of the program is that it requires an initial test plan to be submitted to CRP by the test lab for approval, preferably before the test vehicles are purchased. The test plan includes the standards to be tested and a description of the converted test

“Safety Reviewed Vehicles.”

Another up-side of the accredited lab program is that it leaves NMEDA free from the administrative financial transactions. The cost of the thirdparty review is buried in the test lab fees charged to the client. The cost of reviewing the test plans and test summary and creating the details template for the website are absorbed by CRP as a NMEDA

parties involved and serves as a CRP service to the industry. It should also be noted that with the third-party test lab program the lab, with the client’s permission, can always share parts of the testing or the test report with CRP for problem solving, abnormal circumstances or questions about failures.

vehicles including the mileage, engine configuration and a statement by the test lab that the vehicles are suitable for testing. Once the test is carried out, the test lab provides the manufacturer with the test report along with a summary of the results. The manufacturer in turn sends the summary to CRP. The summary of the results will include speeds, forces, burn rates, fuel leakage, etc. The CRP then compares the test summary to the original test plan and also uses all of this information to complete a template for head office to post the vehicles on the NMEDA website under

service to the industry. An added administrative advantage is that CRP is not responsible for handling large test documents and deleting them under the non-disclosure agreement. The CRP is also finding that the thirdparty test lab program seems to open up communication with the test lab prior to and during the testing. This minimizes the chance of a test failure or a CRP rejection of the test results after it is too late. Where CRP is communicating directly with test lab expertise rather than with a company who may not have in-house testing expertise can be beneficial to all

Although, NMEDA started the program with two reputable test labs, NMEDA’s third-party test lab program is an opportunity for any test lab to become NMEDA approved to perform compliance review for regulated accessible vehicles and adaptive mobility equipment.

The program is open to any lab that wishes to apply for accreditation. In order to qualify, a lab will have to demonstrate to NMEDA that it adheres to NMEDA requirements and those referenced from ISO 17025. NMEDA will accept test labs accredited to ISO 9001 so long as the lab can demonstrate their processes

meet all the requirements of ISO 17025 as called out by NMEDA. Most labs already meet the NMEDA accredited lab requirements, such as:

•A documented quality system in place

•A list of standards the lab is capable of testing

•Procedures to implement corrective action

•Storage facilities for records

•Environmental conditions for test areas

•Meet NMEDA requirements for test vehicles

•Appropriate test lab equipment with calibration stickers

•Annual calibration traceability

•Meet NMEDA, TC and NHTSA test report requirements

Accredited test labs approved by NMEDA will be posted on the NMEDA website as NMEDA CRP approved third party test labs. The following flowchart represents the CRP third party test lab process.

Accredited test labs approved by NMEDA will be posted on the NMEDA website as NMEDA CRP approved third party test labs.”

Who is Servicing Your Customers?

y Chuck Hardy NMEDA DIRECTOR OF QUALITY & COMPLIANCE

One of the reasons so many consumers ask for, and come to our QAP dealers, is because of how they take care of their customers after the sale. QAP accredited dealers provide exceptional service to their customers post-sale by having a dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service line in which they are required to reply, if not immediately, within a 30-minute window to assure their customers are safe and not left stranded on the side of the road. On top of that, these wonderful QAP dealers will send someone out in the ice and cold, or in the sweltering heat to help and get their customers back on the road.

If you’re not familiar with this policy, below is a copy of the requirement taken directly out of the QAP Rules:

24/7 Emergency Service:

NMEDA QAP accredited locations must have a system in place that allows customers easy access to an after-hours answering service, or service telephone number. Accredited locations must respond to a service call within 30 minutes and provide emergency assistance as warranted. The service person responding is expected to:

1. Respond within 30 minutes to a service call.

2. Verify that the situation is not life threatening.

3. Confirm whether the problem is related to the conversion.

4. Attempt to talk the customer through a corrective action/ emergency backup procedure.

5. Confirm that the customer has completed the necessary corrective action and can safely get home and advise the customer to call again with any other problems.

NOTE: If the customer cannot complete the corrective action, the accredited location is expected to advise the customer that a service person will be dispatched.

If a service person must be dispatched for a road call, the service person is required to:

1. confirm that the customer is in a safe location, and confirm any directions needed to find the customer.

2. inform the customer that the emergency service will likely be a temporary repair, intended only to get the customer safely home. Therefore, a subsequent service appointment must be scheduled during normal

service hours.

3. confirm their approximate arrival time.

4. confirm the approximate cost of the service call (if the service is not covered under warranty).

OK Chuck, but what happens if the customer lives outside of your QAP dealers defined service area? Who is servicing your customer then?

That’s a great question and one we are going to take a closer look at in this article.

While the great majority of dealer sales are to clients in close proximity to the selling dealers physical location, that is not always the case. I have spoken to many dealers who have customers that are outside their QAP service area and who only want that dealer to work on their vehicle, even though they may live 400 miles away and there are other QAP accredited dealers close to the customers home. Is that OK with the QAP? Absolutely.

The QAP is customer centric. If the customer wants their favorite QAP dealer to service their vehicle, the QAP accommodates them using the ‘Out of Area Service Form’. The dealer simply needs to complete the form and have the customer sign it and that’s it. Everyone’s happy.

The same ‘Out of Area Service Form’ is also used in cases where a dealer makes a sale to a customer outside their QAP defined service area and the selling dealer has pre-arranged their servicing with another QAP dealer whose location is closer to the customers home. So Chuck, I have a few questions for you then:

• What if I am going to sell a vehicle outside my service area, what do I need to do to be compliant with QAP? Can’t I just tell my customer to go to the closest QAP dealer in their home area for service?

These are great questions, let me answer them one at a time.

The best way to answer the first part of your question is to quote the ‘Out of Area Service Requirements’ directly from the QAP Rules, see below:

Out of Area Service Requirements:

All vehicles outfitted with new warrantied mobility products for use by individuals with disabilities that are delivered to a customer whose primary residence is out of the seller’s service area must have a service agreement in place. The Out of Area Service Agreement Form (QAP-F33) is completed in one of the following ways:

- The client agrees to have the service provided by the seller, regardless of the distance to the location (complete Out of Area Service Agreement Part A)

- The seller makes arrangements with another QAP accredited location in the client’s local area who is certified to perform the service (complete Service Agreement Part B)

- If there are no qualified QAP accredited locations in the client’s local service area, or no QAP accredited locations in the area willing to perform the service, a waiver of the service requirement is necessary. See section “Customer Waiver of Service Area Requirement” and complete Out of Area Service Agreement Part C. A service area is defined as an area within 100 miles (160 km) or 2 hours drive time (whichever is shorter in the best judgment of the selling accredited location) from which a location can reasonably service customers to the level of service expected of a QAP compliant location. The servicing QAP accredited location is required to have technicians certified to service the mobility products installed by the selling accredited location.

The definition of this proximity assumes that customers who purchase a vehicle, adaptive equipment, or both, will drive the distance for repairs to a QAP accredited location, and ensures that 24/7 emergency service can be administered on behalf of the customer in a reasonable and timely manner.

Now for the second part of your question. That is a big no-no and would be a violation of the QAP Rules. QAP Dealers shall never promote or advise customers that another QAP dealer will service their vehicle without first having an arrangement with the other QAP dealer. That policy is stated in the QAP Rules as shown below:

Misrepresentation of Service Availability:

Without first establishing written service agreements, no QAP location shall state or imply to a client or potential customer that following a sale, ANY location can or will provide service to the vehicle or adaptive equipment package. Why misrepresenting service availability is a bad thing

1. It puts the local dealer in an awkward position.

We take a few calls a year from dealers who say the selling dealer told their customer that they could go to the local dealer in their home area without first pre-arranging service. We will call the local dealer the ‘surprised dealer’, because up until the selling dealer’s customer coming into their store, they have no prior knowledge of them or their needs. This can put the surprised dealer in a very uncomfortable and awkward position. If the surprised dealer rejects or turns the customer away, it will not look favorable for them, and the customer may even go to the extent of writing a negative review against the surprised dealer on one of the social media sites. Even though the surprised dealer did nothing wrong, now could be negatively impacted by a review that other potential customers could see.

2. There is no guarantee the local dealer is qualified to service the vehicle or equipment.

The QAP requires the selling dealer has manufacturer trained technicians for all the equipment they install. But the QAP does not require every dealer to have qualified technicians for all possible equipment. That means it is possible that a dealer is not qualified to service the equipment installed by another dealer. For example, let’s say the selling dealer has technicians trained to install ACME hand controls, then sends the customer to another QAP dealer in the customer’s home area, only to find out the local dealer does not have anyone certified for

ACME hand controls. This puts the customer in a position where they have no one qualified to service their equipment. Not good for anyone and not good for NMEDA and what our QAP brand stands for.

You can see from these examples why it’s against NMEDA policy to misrepresent service availability, it can severely impact the customers experience.

If you are going to sell a vehicle outside your service area, ALWAYS make sure the after-sale service is arranged and either the customer will go out of their way to come back to you, or, you pre-arrange servicing from another qualified QAP dealer closer to the customers home location.

So I ask one last time, who is servicing your customer?

I hope after reading this you know the answer and how to make sure your customers are taken care of during and after the sale.

In conclusion, this will be the last article before our annual conference in Kansas City, I will be there, and you are welcome to come to the NMEDA/ QAP booth to ask me anything you like. The question is, will you be there? I hope so. See our website to register if you haven’t already. Its going to be a blast and I hear KC has some good BBQ too…. Until then, keep life moving forward and taking care of the person behind the wheel.

Quarterly: JUNE 2022 -JUNE 2023

NMEDA INDUSTRY MEMBERS

INDUSTRY ____________________________

Accessible Vans of America, LLC.

334 Buckington Street

St. Peters, MO 63376

(636) 294-1762

Acrisure

4808 Broadmoor Ave SE

Kentwood, MI 49512-5306

(616) 447-2293

Adaptive Driving Alliance

111 Stow Avenue, Ste 103

Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

(330) 928-7401

Adaptive Mobility Systems, Inc.

2072 N. Bibb Drive Tucker, GA 30084 (770) 674-0776

Adapt-Solutions

145 Damase-Breton St-Lambert, QC G0S 2W0

(866) 641-0419

AMF Bruns of America

1797 Georgetown Road

Hudson, OH 44236 (877) 506-3770

Bever Mobility Products 2885 Sanford Ave SW

41693

Grandville, MI 49418 (888) 959-6198

Brandl Mobility Finance Services

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

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

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

DSHS/DVR 4565 7th Ave SE Lacey, WA 98503-1075 (206) 462-0620

Electronic Mobility Controls, LLC 26 Gabriel Dr.

Augusta, ME 04330 (207) 512-8009

EZ Lock 2001 Wooddale Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 (225) 214-4620

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

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

Freedom Motors Inc., division of Savaria 14 Goodmark Place Etobicoke, ON M6W 6R1 1-905-799-5544

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

Harmar Mobility

1500 Independence Blvd. Ste 220 Sarasota, FL 34234 (800) 833-0478

High Level Enterprises, Inc. 28767 Holiday Pl

Elkhart, IN 46517-1109 (574) 343-2150

In Motion Mobility LLC 2299 NW 108th Avenue

Sweetwater, FL 33172 (786) 534-2046

Johnson Hand Controls LLC 3960 Locust Grove Rd Columbia, PA 17512 (717) 449-0089

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

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

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

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

Pritchard Auto Group 1400 S 24th St Ste B Clear Lake, IA 50428-4016 (352) 552-6674

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

NMEDA ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS

ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

ARIZONA

Jennifer Nordine Driving to Independence LLC

1414 W. Broadway Rd #218 Tempe, AZ 85282 (480) 449-3331

CALIFORNIA

Sam Abboushi Dynamic Repair Solutions 23615 El Toro Rd X287 Lake Forest, CA 92630 (714) 988-6600

Penny M. Anders Sharp Memorial HospitalRehab 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

Henning Mortensen Bond Driving School 3333 Balmoral Dr Sacramento, CA 95821 (916) 485-5779

Stanton Toy Always Care Medical Supply INC 296 Highland Place San Pablo, CA 94806 (510) 705-1765

COLORADO

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

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

Colleen Knoll

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

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

FLORIDA

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

GEORGIA

Dan Allison 142 Lynford Ln Woodstock, GA 30189

James Kennedy Shepherd Center 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 367-1296

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

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

ILLINOIS

Danielle Czajkowski STRIVE for Independence, Inc.

1919 S. Highland Avenue Bldg. C, Suite 119 Lombard, IL 60418 (630) 984-1919

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

Monica Scalise Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital now part of Northwestern Medicine Driver’s Department 645 N. Kingsbury St Unit 1501 Chicago, IL 60654 16309096087

Nicole Thonn

STRIVE for Independence

1919 S Highland Ave Bldg. C Suite 119 Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 984-1919

Darina Yakimec

2500 Archbury Ln APT 1K Park Ridge, IL 60068

INDIANA

Kathy Kachanoski

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

Carin Mitchell

Mitchell Driving Solutions PO Box 705 New Carlisle, IN 46552

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

LOUISIANA

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

MARYLAND

Elin Davis

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

MASSACHUSETTS

Eugene Blumkin Massachusetts Rehab Commission

600 Washington Street Boston, MA 02211 (617) 204-3721

MICHIGAN

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

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

MISSISSIPPI

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

NEW YORK

Gail Babirad Rehabilitation Technology Assoc. Inc PO Box 540 Kinderhook, NY 12106 (800) 987-2753

Jurgen Babirad Rehabilitation Technology Associates, Inc. PO Box 540 Kinderhook, NY 12106 (800) 987-2753

John Lorenzetti, OTR/L, CDI, DRS FLX Driver Rehabilitation, LLC

4144 High Banks Rd. Geneva, NY 14456 (315) 585-9198

Andrew Streit Stevens Driving School LLC 4060 Seneca St. West Seneca, NY 14224 (716) 674-2340

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

NORTH CAROLINA

Cyndee Crompton Genesis Marketing & Agencies dba Genesis Mobility PO Box 448 McLeansville, NC 27301 (336) 697-7841

NMEDA ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS

Anne Dickerson

East Carolina University

1806 Planters Walk

Greenville, NC 27858

1-744-6190

Mike Edwards North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

5501 Executive Center Dr Suite 101 Charlotte, NC 28212

Liz Soles

ADED

200 First Avenue N.W. #505 Suite 505 Hickory, NC 28601 (866) 672-9466

PENNSYLVANIA

Brenda Bennett Transportation Solutions 4202 Peach Street Erie, PA 16509 (814) 833-2301

Susie Touchinsky

Adaptive Mobility Services

225 Clark Drive Orwigsburg, PA 17961 (484) 650-2280

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

VIRGINIA

Arthur Yeager US ARMY, Walter Reed hospital 3835 Maple Hill Rd Fairfax, VA 22033-2722 (571) 635-7484

WISCONSON

Chelsea Hales

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

CANADA

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Jenn Campinos Island Mediquip 101-750 Enterprise cres victoria, BC v8z 6r4 (250) 940-3829

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

ONTARIO

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

F. Lortie 68 Bloomfield

London, ON N6G 1P3 (519) 495-7660

Tamalea Stone

Ottawa Hospital 686 Vivera Pl

Stittsville, ON K2S 2N1 (705) 741-7660

NMEDA EDU/GOV’T/NON-PROFIT MEMBERS

EDU/GOV’T/NONPROFIT

Eric Bradley

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

Tim Brant Brant’s Driving School 1614 Debran Lane Johnstown, PA 15905 (877) 395-7011

Lance Bullard

Texas Transportation Institute A&M Univ 3135 TAMU College Station, TX 77843 (979) 845-6153

Marilyn Clark Bridge to Mobility 3863 Lander Road M2

Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 12164692560

James Kovar 3135 TAMU College Station, TX 778430001

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

Torrey Morse

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

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

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

Gerhard Schmidt Bridge to Mobility 24410 Emmons Rd Columbia Station, OH 44028-9663 (330) 351-1711

QUEBEC

Kristian Thivierge

Centre de Readaptation

Constance-Lethbridge

7005, Boulevard de Maisonneuve Quest

Montreal, QC H4B 1T3

SASKATCHEWAN

Susanne Adamson Driver Assessment Program/Saskatchewan Health Authority 88 Tibbits Road

Regina, SK S4S 2Z1 (306) 766-5427

Suzanne Lendvoy SK Health Authority 2180 23rd Avenue

Regina, SK S4S 0A5 (306) 766-5968

EUROPE

UNITED KINGDOM

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

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

Michelle Szumski

Texas Workforce Commission - VR Division 101 East 15th Street 101 CT Austin, TX 78778 (512) 936-3462

Jeff Watters Automobility PO Box 421 Montrose, None 3765 +61-387610100

Lisa Weber

Commonwealth of Massachusetts 21 Winship St Brighton, MA 02135-3311

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.

Abilities Expo - Houston

August 4—6, 2023

Visit www.abilities.com/houston for more information.

NMEDA Board of Directors Meeting

August 17, 2023

September 14, 2023

September 30, 2023 (at NMEDA Conference)

Abilities Expo - Phoenix

September 8—10, 2023

Visit www.abilities.com/phoenix for more information.

2023 NMEDA Annual Conference & 2023 Auto Mobility Expo

September 30— October 30, 2023 in Kansas City, MO

Visit www.NMEDAAnnualConference.com or www.AutoMobilityExpo.com for more information.

Abilities Expo - Ft. Lauderdale

October 13—15, 2023

Visit www.abilities.com/miami for more information.

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