Rick Hansen Foundation and A&K Robotics Join Forces for Accessibility

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 15, 2024 — The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) and A&K Robotics have announced a strategic partnership aimed at improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This collaboration is set against the backdrop of the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. The initiative focuses on the deployment of Cruz pods, autonomous mobility solutions currently being tested in airports, designed to facilitate easier navigation for travelers. Brad McCannell, Vice President of Accessibility & Inclusion at RHF, emphasized the importance of innovation in breaking down barriers faced by the one in four Canadians living with disabilities. He expressed optimism about the partnership with A&K Robotics, highlighting the potential for technology to create meaningful accessibility improvements in everyday environments. Matthew Anderson, CEO of A&K Robotics, described the collaboration as a significant milestone for the company. The partnership will involve discussions, workshops, and evaluations aimed at enhancing accessibility in airports and other public spaces. The focus will be on developing practical models and use-cases for the adoption of autonomous mobility pods, ensuring that the needs of travelers of all ages and abilities are met. Central to the evaluation process will be input from individuals with diverse experiences of disability, ensuring that the solutions developed are both effective and inclusive. For more information, interested parties can visit the respective websites of the Rick Hansen Foundation and A&K Robotics.