Joe is a dedicated and passionate Access Technology Instructor specializing in non-visual skills training. With a deep-rooted love for technology that began in middle school, Joe has turned his passion into a career, focusing on helping blind individuals achieve success using advanced technology. He is proficient in training tools such as JAWS, NVDA, Android, and iOS, proving that vision is not a prerequisite for success in today's digital world.
As an instructor, Joe's primary goal is to empower his students, enabling them to gain confidence in using technology. His greatest joy comes from seeing students transition from having no technical skills to becoming competent computer users, ultimately leading to successful careers.
A proud member of the National Federation of the Blind since 1999, Joe received non-visual skills training at the Colorado Center for the Blind in Littleton, Colorado. He currently serves on the Arizona State Convention Arrangements Committee and chairs the Arizona State Tech Committee. He also currently holds a position as an Arizona affiliate board member. Joe's involvement with the National Federation of the Blind highlights his commitment to advocacy and empowerment within the blind community.
Born and raised in Utah, Joe is the oldest of three siblings. From a young age, he understood that blindness should not slow him down. Mentored by his grandparents, Joe was encouraged to explore his environment actively. He spent many hours in his grandfather’s workshop, learning to use tools, which fostered his love for industrial arts. After completing his training at the Colorado Center for the Blind, Joe made Denver his home for 15 years. In 2014, he moved to Arizona, where he took a job as a technology instructor. It was here that he met his loving wife, Sharonda, to whom he has been married since October 13, 2018.
Outside of his professional life, Joe enjoys audio production, creating music, cooking, reading, outdoor activities, and has a love for old-time radio. Despite his many personal and professional pursuits, he always ensures that his duties in the NFB remain a high priority. He is proud to be a leader in the organization.