AES Accessibility in Audio Summit

Join us for a dynamic exploration of accessibility in audio, spanning music production, live sound, audiobooks, and more. The summit offers expert panels, hands-on demos, insights on accessibility best practices, and connections for professionals at every stage of their careers.

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See how the audio industry is shaping accessibility — and what's next

From music production, to audio software, to live sound, to audiobooks, we’ll share insights on making audio more inclusive and approachable for those with disabilities. Through hands-on demos and thoughtful panels, you will discover real-world tools and strategies used by engineers and companies across the industry.

1 in 6 people worldwide has some form of disability, representing a large pool of potential talent that is often overlooked. At this summit, we will examine the many ways in which accessibility in design and culture is beneficial both for users with and without disabilities.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro, an employer, or just starting your career, you’ll find practical knowledge and valuable connections. Join this collaborative environment designed to amplify diverse voices as we work together to expand universal access to sound.

Dates

July 9th, 2026

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

Dates

July 10th, 2026

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

Virtual Event

Online via Zoom

Summit Resources

Prepare for the Summit

Access everything you need to optimize your conference Journey- from exclusive accommodations to high-level networking and technical contributions.

Event Schedule

Explore two days of keynote speeches, software demos, and interactive sessions throughout the event.

Summit Committee

Meet the industry experts and advocates dedicated to expanding universal access to sound.

Featured Keynotes

Experience visionary presentations on disability culture and modern workplace inclusion strategies.

Registration

Select Your Access Level

Join us for two days of panels, keynotes, and professional networking. Choose the registration tier that best fits your professional status and gain full access to all summit sessions.

AES Members

Special rate for active professional members.

$25

AES Student Members

Discounted access for the next generation.

$10

Non-Members

Full access to all sessions and recordings.

$50

As part of the Audio Engineering Society’s commitment to  accessibility  and inclusion, need-based financial assistance is available for anyone who is unable to afford the costs of registration. Please reach out to  membership@aes.org  so we can ensure that no one is excluded from the event due to financial circumstances

Our Partners

The Summit Agenda

1:00 PM: RAMPD Keynote Panel

Panelists: Lachi (RAMPD CEO) and TBD.

Moderator: Shelby Lock (Silver Moon Sound).

Award-winning engineers and producers with disabilities discuss what Disability Culture means and how everyone—both disabled and non-disabled—benefits from accessibility. RAMPD defines Disability Culture as, “the art, music, words, and creative contributions of people who identify as disabled. It is rooted in creativity, determination, and problem solving and is a vibrant counter-response to society’s marginalization and oppression, and deserves to be celebrated.” In this panel, we will discuss what this practically could look like in the audio industry.

Panelists: Simone Capitani (Audio Modeling), Eleonora Dolif (Audio Modeling), Jason Dasent, Vanessa Faschi, Jeff Bernet (Caedence), Anton Friant (Caedence).

Moderator: Lele Parravicini (Audio Modeling).

We will discuss how companies face the challenges of designing and developing music software products to be accessible to visually impaired users

Break time

Joey Stuckey (Shadow Sound Studio) and Shelby Lock (Silver Moon Sound).

In this panel, two engineers with disabilities share how they designed their studios with accessibility in mind while offering practical advice on creating spaces that are physically accessible. Topics include wheelchair/mobility accessibility, accessibility for blind/low-vision engineers, clean-air accessibility, and creating a space welcoming to disabled and neurodiverse clients.

Panelists: Ritchell Lim, TBD

1:00 PM: Creating a Culture of Accessibility in Audio

Panelists: Marty Cooper (Sony), Ritchell Lim, Shelby Lock (Silver Moon Sound).

Moderator:Marcela Rada (The Immersive Lounge).

This workshop empowers audio professionals to foster a more accessible and equitable workplace where employees with disabilities are not only included, but embraced for their unique talents and perspectives. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities and learn strategies to create a more inclusive working environment. Real-world insights from industry professionals with disabilities will provide practical guidance on addressing common challenges and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Whether you are a studio manager, live sound engineer, academic, or self-employed professional, this workshop offers valuable tools to help you confidently integrate accessibility into every aspect of your organization. Join us to reimagine the future of audio as an inclusive space where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique voices.

Panelists: Samuel Wilkins, Jessica Tomlinson

Break time

TBD

In this group discussion and networking hour, industry leaders and employers will connect to brainstorm how to apply the topics discussed throughout the summit.

Got Questions?

Everything You Need to Know

Find answers to common questions about registration, session access, and technical requirements for the Summit.

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Find answers to common questions about registration, session access, and technical requirements for the Summit.

Find answers to common questions about registration, session access, and technical requirements for the Summit.

Find answers to common questions about registration, session access, and technical requirements for the Summit.

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