Dustin A. Wright Tech Champion Award

This award was established to memorialize Dustin A. Wright, Founder of Disability Cocoon, and pioneer in the Technology First movement.  

Dustin was a leader in the remote support and enabling technology industry. His passion for the IDD community led him to begin Disability Cocoon, an entity that raises awareness of technological resources to support community independence.  His capacity to help people understand the value of technology and its role as natural support was evident in the way he facilitated Tech Huddles and webinars.  He was one of those people who embraced everything he did with enthusiasm, and our field is better for it.

Dustin always proudly introduced himself by noting that he had been a direct support professional before engaging in leadership roles.  He advocated for the professionalization of this occupation by ensuring that educational opportunities were readily accessible and affordable.

Most importantly, Dustin valued being of service to those in the IDD world - self-advocates, families, and professionals alike.  As an early supporter of SHIFT, Dustin ensured that individuals serving as direct and natural supports could receive training to support both safe and effective implementation of technology as a natural support.

Annually, the Dustin A. Wright Tech Champion Award honors five Direct Support Professionals actively working for an IDD support provider who demonstrates a commitment to Technology First education and transformation.  These people embody what it means to be a Tech Champion by:

• Pursuing education and training to enhance their knowledge and skill of integrating technology as a natural support

• Advocating for technology implementation in the home, workplace, and community for the self-advocates they support

• Empowering individuals to self-advocate for technology and its integration into daily routines and activities

• Championing Technology First best practices within the organization to build momentum and sustain transformation

Each weekday during Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, SHIFT highlighted one recipient of this award via social media and our website.  The honorees received a framed certificate and a special gift.  SHIFT provided a copy of a press release to the organization for marketing purposes.  SHIFT also submitted a letter to the state disabilities division or department announcing the award and winning recipient.