Kacey Roehrich graduated this spring with her master’s in rehabilitation technology from the University of Pittsburgh. She had previously earned her bachelor’s in biomedical engineering and a minor in interdisciplinary disabilities studies from the University of Maine.
During her undergraduate degree, she was part of a project designing a pressure-alternating wheelchair cushion to reduce the incidence of pressure injuries. After graduation, she continued to research pressure injury prevention with the Tissue Integrity Management Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh, where she performed ANSI/RESNA standards on full-body support surfaces before joining the Wireless RERC.
What drew you to rehabilitation science?
I am drawn to rehabilitation science because it combines my interests in engineering and design with opportunities to help people achieve their goals and do the activities they enjoy. I love that I work directly with the clients and can apply their feedback when engineering solutions for them.
Give us your 60 Second Research Pitch?
I have a few projects I am involved with. My work with the RERC supports projects piloting smart home technology service delivery models. We are interested in studying the efficacy of using smart home technology as assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, effectively training clients on their smart home devices, and identifying any barriers that may be present. I assist with setting up the data collection site, testing new devices in our lab, and installing and pairing devices with clients. I am also involved in a research project developing and testing prosthesis-compatible vibration therapy as a therapy for phantom limb pain.
What brought you to Pitt?
I came to Pitt for the Masters of Rehabilitation Technology program. I have long been interested in working with the VA, so I was drawn to the opportunity to intern at the Pittsburgh VA as part of the program.
Do you have any advice for undergraduates considering a career in assistive technology?
My advice is to get involved and learn as much as you can. Try to find projects to work on and organizations to volunteer with that align with your interests so you can make connections with people and gain experience.
What do you love about Pittsburgh?
I love spending time outside in Pittsburgh. There are many close spots for water activities, hiking, and getting out in nature!