Tools for Life 2023

Tools for Life 2023: February 27-28

Tools for Life 2023: February 27-28

The 18th annual Tools for Life conference is scheduled for February 27-28 in Boise. With record breaking attendance expected, this year’s event is slated to be a fun-filled learning experience for youth with disabilities and all who support them.

Tools for Life is an annual secondary transition conference that brings together students with disabilities, families and secondary transition professionals for two days of learning and fun. The event is presented as a typical professional conference. Keynote speakers, presentations and breakout sessions focus on one of five topics:

  • employment
  • assistive technology
  • post-secondary education
  • independent living
  • self-advocacy/self-direction.

Attendees are encouraged to choose sessions that meet their interests, needs and goals. There are also parent-focused sessions and an exhibition hall.

Each year, the event takes place in a different location around Idaho. This year, it will take place in Boise.

“We’re looking forward to a giant conference in Boise,” said Dan Dyer, head of the Tools for Life planning team. “It will be our largest since COVID hit, and possibly our largest event ever! A notable new addition to the conference is the inclusion of a workforce simulation program involving a virtual reality fork-lift driving experience.”

Along with this exciting new addition, attendees can expect two days of learning and growth, with keynote speakers, breakout sessions, activities and more! Sessions will again focus on key secondary transition topics, with many exciting presentations already planned. Download the 2023 Program to get all the details.

The Phillips family will return as keynote speakers to share their knowledge and insight about advocacy, assistive technology and more. This year will also see the return of Reality Town – a popular activity that encourages participants to problem solve living expenses and create a budget.

Registration is required for this event, and while it is closed for this year, it’s never too soon to start planning for Tools for Life 2024. The event will be travelling to Pocatello.

More information about Tools for Life can be found on the Idaho Assistive Technology Project.