Spring 2026
communicATor
The Official Newsletter of the Center for Innovative Design and Engineering
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Message from the Director | Spring 2026
Mar 11, 2026This has been a remarkable quarter — one that reminded me, again and again, why the work we do at CIDE matters so deeply. In January, I had the privilege of attending CES in Las Vegas, where the world's most forward-thinking technology companies showcased their latest innovations. What struck me most was how prominently accessibility featured across the show floor — from smart home devices to AI-powered communication tools. The conversation has shifted. Accessibility is no longer a niche consideration...Full story -
Engineering Transforms Our Future
Jan 20, 2026Accessibility isn't a footnote to innovation — it's the driving force behind a one-of-a-kind program that's redefining how technology serves humanity at every stage of life.Full story -
Building a Market-Ready Future Through Accessibility
Feb 26, 2026Unlock the potential of your products with accessibility-driven innovation! Discover how CIDE partners with industry leaders to create human-centered solutions that not only enhance user experiences but also drive market growth.Full story
Call for Research Participants!
Research Participants Needed for Online Survey about Dynamic Seating
We are pleased to share an opportunity to participate in an important research project on Dynamic Seating led by Becky Breaux, PhD, OTR/L, ATP, in partnership with co-investigator Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ATP/SMS, and professional research assistant Sarah Walker, MS.
The purpose of this research is to better understand how and why people use Dynamic Seating on their mobility device(s), and its impact.
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Finding the Right Tools
Jan 31, 2026When Parkinson's Disease and a lifelong Essential Tremor began interfering with his work, law professor Mike turned to the CIDE Assistive Technology Clinic — and left with solutions that transformed his productivity and confidence.Full story -
From Code to Care
Mar 4, 2026Where code meets compassion, CU Denver Biomedical Engineering student Jack Lueck is channeling his computer engineering expertise into robotics and augmented reality technology designed to help people live more independently.Full story -
Your Pathway to a Career in AT
Feb 16, 2026Transform lives through engineering! Discover how CU Denver’s Graduate Certificate in Assistive Technology equips you with the skills to design innovative solutions that empower individuals with disabilities and improve their quality of life.Full story
Bring Your Students to Tour Our Lab
CIDE’s Human Factors Testing Lab connects inclusive technology with real learners through guided tours of our research spaces. If you’d like to receive invitations to upcoming tours or coordinate a visit for your school or program, please share your information below.
2026 Déjà vu Rendezvous Celebration is May 15, 2026
The Annual Déjà vu Rendezvous is Colorado's premier construction industry event, bringing together builders, contractors, and industry leaders for an evening of celebration and giving back. Together, we have raised over $3.5 million to support the specialized technology needs of Colorado's families living with disabilities. Net proceeds from this event will support the work of the Center for Innovative Design and Engineering (CIDE) at the University of Colorado.
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Powering Educational Access Across Colorado
Jan 29, 2026Empower your students with the right tools! Discover how SWAAAC’s Assistive Technology Loan Library is revolutionizing educational access in Colorado, enabling schools to make evidence-based decisions for student success.Full story -
Advancing Assistive Technology in Education
Mar 17, 2026Attend the 2026 Conference for Assistive Technology in Education (CATE). Join us at this virtual event June 4 & 5.Full story
Your message is getting lost.
The documents you create may be difficult to navigate by people using assistive technology. Learn to make your work WCAG compliant in our Document Accessibility Training Series; a self-paced, hands-on learning experience from the University of Colorado's Center for Innovative Design and Engineering.