NRRTS set to go live with supplier-specific certification

LUBBOCK, Texas - The first course in NRRTS's new CRT Supplier Certificate Program will be available by the end of the year, Weesie Walker announced during the organization's virtual Open Meeting on Oct. 28.

“It's near and dear to my heart,” said Walker, executive director of NRRTS. “This will be the first CRT supplier-focused program that will give people the knowledge and baseline of what they need to know as a CRT supplier.”

In 2019, when NRRTS was in the beginning stages of developing the new program, Walker acknowledged that there are already a number of credentials and certifications in the complex rehab industry - there's the CRTS from NRRTS, and the ATP and SMS from RESNA - but she said the new program would serve as “entry level training” that would help get professionals interested in seating and mobility.

More information on the new program is coming soon: “We're in the final stages of making it perfect for publication,” Walker said.

Walker also announced at the meeting that NRRTS has a new partnership with the Canadian Assistive Devices Association, which represents manufacturers, distributors and vendors of assistive devices and supplies.

“They recognized the need to develop a standard for suppliers throughout Canada,” she said. “They looked at NRRTS and knew our mission was the same as their mission. This partnership will not only make NRRTS stronger but also help us get the word out about advocacy and creating a minimum standard.”

Among those on the advisory committee for the partnership is Jason Kelln, the first NRRTS CRTS in Canada.

“He's been very influential in showing them and making them aware that, hey, NRRTS is what we need in Canada,” Walker said.

During the meeting, NRRTS also announced a number of award winners: Mike Barner of the University of Michigan Wheelchair Seating Service and a past president of NRRTS was given the Simon Margolis Fellowship; and Tom Simon of Numotion and a board member of NRRTS was given the NRRTS Distinguished Service Award.

“Simon was the reason I became passionate about this industry,” Barner said. “Back when he spoke at Medtrade and he talked about what it really was to be a member of NRRTS and how to carry ourselves - he got me that day. I was all in. It's a humbling experience. I'm proud to be associated with Simon and the other recipients of this award.”

In a surprise, Gerry Dickerson, president of NRRTS, also “elevated” Walker, the recipient of a previous fellow award, to a Simon Margolis Fellowship.