Background of the TRT
The Transition Readiness Toolkit (TRT) was born out of a real-world need identified by the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation (USOR). The state was spending a significant portion of its budget on Pre-ETS without a mechanism for overseeing, evaluating, or improving services.
In early 2020, USOR sought the expertise of researchers Brian Phillips, PhD, CRC, Utah State University, and Allison Fleming, Ph.D., CRC, Penn State University, to help them create a solution.
A Collaborative Approach
The project’s development involved close collaboration with stakeholders from six different state VR agencies, youth with disabilities and their parents or guardians, and university researchers. Together, this group of contributors worked to create a battery of assessments, as well as a software program, that could transform the landscape of transitional support for youth with disabilities.
Over the years, the TRT has collected invaluable data from thousands of youth with disabilities across multiple states. This wealth of data serves as the foundation for generating rich insights that empower state leadership, educational institutions, and service providers to make data-driven decisions and deliver more effective Pre-ETS.
To date, over 18,000 assessments have been completed.
AVI Human Services is dedicated to improving human services through customized assessment tools and data visualizations. Our mission is to assess, visualize, and improve the delivery of services to individuals and communities. We leverage technology and data-driven insights to optimize outcomes and empower those we serve.
Our flagship product, the Transition Readiness Toolkit (TRT), exemplifies our commitment to innovation in human services. The TRT is a comprehensive suite of assessment tools and data visualizations designed specifically to improve Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for youth with disabilities. The TRT empowers agencies and providers to assess the effectiveness of their services, visualize key insights, and implement targeted improvements. With the TRT, we aim to improve transition services, creating more inclusive and impactful pathways to employment and higher education for individuals with disabilities.
Meet the Team
Brian and Christopher Phillips both live in the mountains of Logan, Utah. They are brothers who share a lot in common, including their passion for supporting and improving disability services. This passion stems largely from growing up with two brothers who have Down syndrome and watching them navigate the service systems intended to facilitate community participation.
Brian is a certified rehabilitation counselor who practiced rehabilitation counseling before obtaining a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Counselor Education from Michigan State University. Christopher was a special education teacher before obtaining a master’s degree in Instructional Technology and pursuing a career in digital accessibility.
When they are not working, Christopher and Brian enjoy throwing a Frisbee on their lunch breaks and spending time with their families.
Nathan Freestone
Development and IT
Nathan is a Developer Intern, and is currently studying computer science at Utah State University. When he is not coding for work or school, he is likely coding something else.
Outside of keyboard clacking, he enjoys reading books and watching movies with his lovely wife, Rosie, and their cat, Ruby.
SherRon Marcek
Customer Success
SherRon is a project manager tasked with empowering clients and ensuring they have the tools and support they need to succeed with the Transition Readiness Toolkit. As the mother of a special needs child, she is passionate about AVI’s mission. She has a background in customer relations and marketing.
When she’s not working, she’s probably planning her next trip or driving her children to their various activities.
Caden Gee
Technical Product Management
Caden is a Technical Product Management Intern with a passion for making disability services more accessible. He has an educational background in both psychology and biology, and several years of experience working in digital accessibility. His goal is to create user-friendly experiences for all.
In his free time, he enjoys camping and hiking, playing the piano, and learning to cook new dishes.
Our Values
Inclusion and Equality
We are driven by a deep commitment to inclusion and equality. We believe that every individual, regardless of their abilities or background, deserves equal access to opportunities, support, and resources.
Empathy and Compassion
Empathy and compassion are at the heart of everything we do. We value the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.
Empowerment & Self-Determination
We are passionate about creating systems and societies where people are empowered to lead self-determined lives. Our work is grounded in the belief that providing the tools, knowledge, and resources necessary for informed choice among providers and recipients of services is one of the most impactful ways to improve lives.
Learning and Innovation
We embrace a culture of continuous learning and innovation. We understand that the landscape of disability services is constantly evolving, and we are committed to staying at the forefront of change.