At the start of FY2024, AFB underwent review of our workforce development programs. The review coincided with the development of our new strategic plan, which aimed to expand possibilities for people who are blind or have low vision through our workforce programs and community engagement.

As the strategic plan took shape, it was clear that the AFB Talent Lab had the capability to significantly impact expanding digital accessibility and inclusion. Success was demonstrated during the first quarter of FY2024 when four Talent Lab apprentices received Journeyman accreditation for project management through the Commonwealth of Virginia, with a focus on accessibility and digital inclusion. Made possible through the generous support of philanthropist Gordon Gund, each apprentice brings a unique lived experience of blindness to their respective fields in software development and engineering.

The AFB Digital Accessibility Internship Program was the first to complete its internal review during FY2024, and the program was strengthened to focus on summer learning opportunities that would allow for scaling up instruction to accommodate greater student participation. The revamped program launched in June 2024, introducing the newly established Digital Accessibility Bootcamp.

This three-month summer program is available to graduate and undergraduate students as well as recent graduates. It is dedicated to expanding the pool of skilled digital engineers and designers who are committed to advancing accessibility and inclusion in technology. By providing hands-on learning and mentorship, this program prepares participants to create inclusive digital environments and help organizations meet their accessibility goals, contributing to a more inclusive digital landscape.

“Our goal is to empower the next generation of digital professionals to champion accessibility,” said Matthew Janusauskas, AFB’s chief technology and programs officer.

The program launched with 19 participants from across the country. Each participant gained hands-on training and mentoring from professionals who are blind or have low vision.

“The accessibility skills acquired through this bootcamp are the perfect starting point to prepare us for a promising future,” said Ashraf Shaikh Mohammed, a student at Iowa State University. “Best of all, we get to work with amazing, helpful, and talented people who are incredibly skilled in the field of digital accessibility.”

“This bootcamp has been a wonderful experience, and I can confidently say that it is creating the people who will shape the future of digital accessibility,” said Adara Noble, a student at West Colorado University.

Those completing the Digital Accessibility Bootcamp will have the opportunity to gain further training as additional Talent Lab programs, such as the digital accessibility residency program, take flight. Two of the inaugural bootcamp interns stayed on in this capacity to further their education. The apprenticeship program, which focuses on training developers and engineers with disabilities, is also queued up for roll-out over the coming year.

Download the 2024 Annual Report (PDF)

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