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Missoula & Billings, Montana
MonTECH provides technology, support, and services that improve the quality of life for Montanans with disabilities.
MonTECH provides free, confidential information about assistive technology (AT) devices and services for Montanans. Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software, or product system used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. We use our professional staff, our network of AT resources, and our database of AT manufacturers and service providers to provide you with up-to-date information on AT-related issues.
We strive to ensure that all people in Montana with disabilities have equitable access to assistive technology devices and services in order to enhance their independence, productivity, and quality of life. In pursuit of this goal, program staff work with consumers, service providers, educators, therapists, state agencies, private industry, researchers, legislators, and other interested individuals.
MonTECH provides assistive technology (AT) information and services in the areas of education, employment, community living, and telecommunications.
MonTECH is part of The University of Montana’s Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities. Our services are consistent with the Rural Institute’s mission of enhancing the independence, productivity, integration, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities through consumer responsiveness as defined in the AT act.
MonTECH is the Statewide AT Program funded under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. MonTECH’s lead agency is Montana DPHHS: Disability Services Division, Vocational Rehabilitation Services. MATP is located within the University of Montana Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities. We strive to serve all Montanans with disabilities.
MonTech Programs
Montana Assistive Technology Trial Program
A program providing Assistive Technology and Adaptive Equipment for a 30-day trial free of charge to all Montanans with disabilities, those who are aging, or their supports (item trials are limited to 12 at a time).
Montana Assistive Technology Program–Long Term Loan
A program providing Assistive Technology and Adaptive Equipment for long term loan free of charge to all Montanans with disabilities, those who are aging, or their supports. UPDATE November 2017: MATP-LTL now has equipment from MAEP.
Montana Adaptive Equipment Program
MAEP equipment can now be checked out from the MATP-LTL program.
Montana Deaf-Blind Project
A project providing information, resources, training, and technical assistance to infants, toddlers, and school-aged Montanans who have sensory limitation in both hearing and vision. Two-month equipment loans are available to those listed on the deaf-blind census.
Wheels Across Montana Program
An adaptive tricycle loan program funded by a Quality of Life High Impact Innovative Assistive Technology grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
Financial Loan Program
MonTECH and Rural Dynamics offer a financial loan program for those looking at affordable ways to finance assistive technology. Montana Assistive Technology Loans (MATL) offers Montanans with disabilities, or their family members, the ability to purchase assistive technology (AT), for a variety of needs:
- Hearing & Vision
- Daily Living Equipment
- Communication Devices
- Home & Building Access
- Electronic Devices
- Vehicle Loans & Modifications
- Scooters, Wheelchairs, etc.
- Adaptive Recreation
- and much much more!
Device Demonstrations
MonTECH provides adaptive equipment and assistive technology (AT) device demonstrations for individuals and groups to trial numerous assistive technology and computer options. Demonstrations are available at the Missoula or Billings office as well as statewide by video conference. If needed, we will be glad to arrange demonstrations by other means. Contact us for more information.
Our guided demonstrations help you to:
- learn if there are AT options that may be of benefit
- explore a wide range of devices or computer options
- compare similar devices
- try a specific device or computer application
Training
MonTECH offers numerous Assistive Technology (AT) training opportunities for groups and individuals at our Missoula and Billings locations as well as off-site and in long-distance formats.
Examples of potential training topics include:
- Awareness of AT options (low-tech to high-tech)
- AT for employment and workplace accommodations
- AT in educational environments
- AT for community living, home environment, and home modifications
- Alternative augmentative communication
- AT for hearing, vision, and/or mobility
- AT for aging
- AT funding
- Computer access and software applications
- Recreational AT and adaptive recreation practices
