Closing the ATP Gap: How Mentorship, Technical Training, and Smarter Recruitment Will Shape the Future of CRT

Published in Complex Rehab on February 11, 2026

The complex rehab technology (CRT) industry stands at a pivotal moment. Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) are the backbone of patient-centered mobility solutions, yet the field is facing a growing workforce shortage as many seasoned ATPs approach retirement. This gap isn’t just a staffing challenge; it’s a care challenge. Patients rely on ATPs not only for technical expertise but also for partnership, advocacy, and compassionate problem-solving.

As an industry, it’s important that forward-thinking organizations and CRT leaders collaborate to develop strategic pathways that help ensure the next generation of ATPs is equipped with the expertise, empathy, and readiness needed to support individuals with complex mobility needs.

Why the ATP Gap Demands Immediate Attention

ATPs serve as the critical link between patients, clinicians, and technology. They analyze needs, recommend equipment, and guide individuals through device training—all responsibilities that require deep technical knowledge and a human touch. A significant number of today’s ATPs are nearing retirement, creating an urgent need to attract and prepare new professionals for this highly specialized field.

Without enough ATPs, patients experience longer wait times, limited access to complex wheelchairs, and fewer opportunities for personalized care. Ensuring continuity means investing in CRT workforce development to meet today’s demand and tomorrow’s possibilities.

Mentorship: The Pathway to ATP Development

Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for shaping future ATPs. While formal training provides structure and foundational knowledge, mentorship develops the human-centered skills that define excellence in CRT.

Investing in and developing mentorship-focused programs—modeled after the apprenticeship-style learning seen in many allied health professions—can help bridge the ATP gap by pairing new or aspiring ATPs with experienced professionals. These kinds of programs can equip future ATPs with:

Trust-building and rapport skills that help patients feel heard and valued
Cultural awareness and communication techniques that ensure patient needs are fully understood
Real-world problem-solving abilities beyond what textbooks can offer
Professional confidence developed through guided exposure to complex cases

These types of mentorship-driven initiatives help transform technical learners into empathetic practitioners capable of delivering meaningful patient outcomes. As U.S. Rehab and industry leaders emphasize¹, training programs must be designed to prepare new professionals to enter the field ready to interact confidently with clients, clinicians, and manufacturers.

By embedding mentorship in the CRT training ecosystem, the industry can create a sustainable cycle in which today’s rising ATPs become tomorrow’s seasoned mentors.

Technical Training: Building Strong Clinical and Mechanical Foundations

High-quality ATP training requires both clinical knowledge and hands-on technical skill. U.S. Rehab has taken a leadership role in offering robust training pathways that support technicians and aspiring ATPs at every stage of their career journey.

ATP Academy: A Deep, Flexible Learning Track

ATP Academy provides a comprehensive, self-paced online pathway that covers everything from anatomy and physiology to seating principles, ICT, AAC, and service delivery workflows. Developed with expert input, the ATP Academy meets learners where they are—offering flexibility for technicians balancing professional obligations and career advancement.

ATP Gateway: A Hands-On Exploration for Technicians

ATP Gateway Training gives repair technicians structured exposure to the ATP role, allowing them to explore whether a more clinical, patient-facing career path is right for them². It introduces essential ATP concepts—including AAC exposure, mobility evaluation fundamentals, and patient interaction skills—making it an effective recruitment and readiness tool for technicians curious about advancement.

For those who want to deepen their preparation, the ATP Prep Package offers an affordable way to accelerate progress. This bundle includes registration for a 2026 ATP Gateway training event of choice, plus full access to the ATP Academy. By pairing the immersive, in-person experience of ATP Gateway Training with the comprehensive online curriculum of the ATP Academy, rising ATPs gain both practical exposure and foundational knowledge setting them up for meaningful, confident progression toward certification.

Live Tech Training: Strengthening the Technician Pipeline

U.S. Rehab’s Live Tech Training events provide essential hands-on education for technicians, building the foundational service and repair skills that often serve as a stepping stone toward an ATP career. With tracks ranging from beginner to advanced, these events cover troubleshooting, adaptive seating, and documentation practices for proper billing and reimbursement accuracy.

These layered training opportunities work together to create a strong, structured pipeline into ATP roles.

Innovative Recruitment: Meeting Future ATPs Where They Are

Part of overcoming the ATP shortage is recognizing the incredible potential found in today’s existing workforce, particularly among repair technicians. Many already have years of hands-on experience, troubleshooting expertise, and a desire to work more closely with patients.

Programs that help technicians explore ATP pathways accomplish three important goals:

They expand the recruitment funnel
They identify candidates who already possess mechanical aptitude and field experience
They elevate technicians who are ready for more clinical, problem-solving responsibilities

Recruiting from within not only supports workforce growth but also strengthens care continuity by investing in professionals who are already committed to the CRT field.

Creating a Sustainable Workforce Through Ongoing Support and Education

Certification is a milestone, but true professional growth is ongoing. Continuing education, mentorship opportunities, and career development pathways reinforce ATP confidence and competence throughout their careers.

A sustainable ATP workforce will grow from consistent investment—not only in training, but in support systems that nurture professional satisfaction and long-term retention.

Looking Forward: A Human-Centered Future for CRT

The ATP shortage is a real and pressing challenge, but it’s one the CRT community is actively equipped to meet. By expanding access to training opportunities and creating clearer ATP certification pathways, investing in mentorship-driven programs, and innovative recruitment of passionate individuals from within the existing workforce, the industry is not only filling gaps but strengthening the profession from the inside out.

Most importantly, these strategies honor what ATPs represent: experts who empower independence, dignity, and possibility through assistive mobility technology.

Reach out to U.S. Rehab for any questions or more information.

How is your organization investing in CRT workforce development? Let’s start the conversation. Whether you need guidance or have a question, U.S. Rehab is here to help.

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