I have been working as a computer trainer since the 1990s. I started in Local Government (an organisation then called the Southern Regional Council for Further Education). During that time I also did some part-time teaching at Reading College.

From there I worked for the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB), as a Technical Training Consultant. I was a initially a member of staff at the RNIB’s Vocational College in Loughborough, although based at the Head Quarters which was at that time in Great Portland Street. For the latter part of my employment I was responsible for the computer training for the RNIB’s visually impaired staff.

In 1999 I was invited to join Blazie Ltd, a small company supplying software, hardware, training and other consultancy services for blind and partially sighted computer users.

In 2007 I started working as a freelance computer trainer, based in Cardiff.

In terms of qualifications here is a potted history of those that I think are relevant:

• City & Guilds Further and Adult Education Teachers’ Certificate (7307);
• Institute of IT Training, Certificate in Training Delivery Skill;
• British Computer Association of the Blind, Trainer Certification Scheme;
• Open University – The Fundamentals of Computing;
• Open University – Adult Learning: Education and Training;
• Open University – Education, Training and the Changing Nature of Work;
• Henter Joyce – Jaws Macro Writing Course;
• Henter Joyce – Customising Jaws and Script writing for Jaws;
• Deaf Blind UK – Awareness Training .

I have worked with a wide range of people using the following assistive technology (among others):

• Jaws (from version 2)
• Supanova
• Lunar
• Magic
• ZoomText
• Braille Displays
• CCTVs
• Kurzweil 1000
• OpenBook
• Dragon Naturally Speaking
• Connect Outloud
• Duxbury Braille Translator

I have written a number of books in the series “Windows Without the Mouse”. If you are interested in those take a look at www.WithoutaMouse.com.