Experience

• 

  RJ Cooper & Associates, Inc.

  • Orange County, CA

  • CEO and Founder

    • Sep 1983 - Present
    • Orange County, CA

    I am RJ, an inventor, technologist and a student of human behavior. I have devoted my entire life to find customized solutions to solve the mobility, communication, and quality of life challenges, faced by all ages, with any special need. My interest in the field of 'Assistive Technology' began over 30 years ago, when I was studying to become an electrical engineer at the University of Utah. When I began my career, not many people realized the potential technology would have on the lives of those with special needs. My love for people and my interest in special needs drove me to also pursue a Bachelor's in Developmental Psychology from University of California-Irvine and a Master’s in Education, concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorder, from Arizona State University.I love what I do because my products make a tangible impact on the lives of the users by unlocking their hidden capabilities. What gives me the greatest pleasure is working one-on-one with my clients to help them tap into those abilities. For the last 18 years, I have conducted Road Trips spanning three continents to meet learners and caregivers, so I can help provide solutions that will help them overcome obstacles that they may not have thought possible. I have conducted research on Teaching Conversational Skills to Nonverbal Teens for my master’s thesis and spent time working with the RH Dana Exceptional Needs Facility, in Dana Point. Additionally, I am a frequent lecturer at the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference and Closing the Gap Conference. For 10 years, I was a contributor to the popular column “Ask RJ” in the international special needs technology publication, Closing the Gap.My 30+ years of experience, enhanced by my blend of engineering studies, psychology and special education degrees, gives me a unique perspective that I can share with each learner I encounter.