CAT Program: Launch Your Digital Accessibility Career as a Blind Professional

Overview - Your Path to Becoming a Certified Accessibility Tester 

Below is the program overview, one case study, insight on market needs and job demands in digital accessibility, what you’ll get from this program, and how to get started, all navigable by heading. 

Contents:

• Overview - Your Path to Becoming a Certified Accessibility Tester 
• Ellie’s Journey: From Overwhelmed Mom to Certified Tester and Instructor 
• High Demand for Blind Accessibility Testers: Why Your Skills Are Needed Now
• Comprehensive Accessibility Testing Training Built for Screen Reader Users 
• What You'll Gain: Accessibility Certifications, Skills, and a Paid Apprenticeship
• What Comes After the CAT Program?
• Start Your Journey Today
• How to Qualify for the CAT Program
• Download the Skills Baseline Document

Ellie’s Journey: From Overwhelmed Mom to Certified Tester and Instructor 

Ellie wasn’t sure if she’d ever find a job that truly worked for her life. As a mother of four, including two middle children with visual impairments who inherited her genetic condition, she was balancing complex family needs with the constant pressure of needing income—all while navigating a job market that wasn’t built with blind professionals in mind. 

“Right before starting the CAT program, I lost all of my Social Security income due to a misunderstanding I'm still working to resolve, so my family was in a pretty desperate place financially, and the timing of when I learned about this program and went through it couldn't have been more perfect.” – Ellie 

Her daughter also lives with a rare brain abnormality, and her son, who is autistic, underwent two retinal detachment surgeries during the program. On top of it all, she lost her Social Security income right before the CAT Program began. 

Ellie had tried training programs before, but none led to real employment. She had the motivation. She had the work ethic. But what she needed was a real opportunity—one that provided structure, support, and a pathway to a career that fit her life. 

Fourteen weeks later, Ellie had two certifications (CAT 2.2 and DHS Trusted Tester), a part-time paid apprenticeship, and something even more valuable: confidence and clarity. She had moved out of state and passed her final exams in the same week. Today, she’s one of our instructors, mentoring the next generation of blind accessibility testers. 

High Demand for Blind Accessibility Testers: Why Your Skills Are Needed Now 

Like Ellie, many blind and low vision individuals are seeking meaningful employment. And the demand for accessibility testers has never been higher. 

At this year’s CSUN Assistive Technology Conference, developers and tech teams said it loud and clear: 

“We need qualified blind and low vision digital accessibility testers.” 

Companies want to comply with WCAG 2.2, Section 508, and ADA requirements. However, they need skilled testers who understand screen readers, keyboard navigation, and real user experience. 

That’s what the CAT Program delivers. Not just certifications but skills that matter. 

Comprehensive Accessibility Testing Training Built for Screen Reader Users 

The CAT Program is comprehensive, inclusive, and purpose-built for screen reader users. Everything from instruction to materials is designed with accessibility in mind. 

In 14 weeks, you’ll engage in instructor-led sessions, hands-on exercises, weekly mentoring, and exam preparation. You’ll gain real-world knowledge, build confidence, and graduate with meaningful credentials—and a guaranteed apprenticeship. Yes, that’s right! 

Whether you're new to tech or just haven’t been given the right tools, this program gives you the chance to start fresh, learn deeply, and work confidently. 

What You'll Gain: Accessibility Certifications, Skills, and a Paid Apprenticeship 

You’ll graduate with two highly respected certifications (CAT 2.2 and DHS Trusted Tester v5) plus the experience and professionalism needed to work in real digital accessibility jobs. Here’s what you’ll gain: 

What Comes After the CAT Program? 

After the apprenticeship, CAT graduates go on to: 

You’ll leave the program not only qualified but confident. 

Start Your Journey Today 

You don’t need a tech background. You just need motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. We’ll teach you the rest and support you every step of the way. 

Imagine building a career where your lived experience is an asset. Earning around $25/hour. Working comfortably from home. Spending more time with your family. All while making the web more accessible for everyone. 

How to Qualify for the CAT Program 

To join the CAT Program, you must: 

Download the Skills Baseline Document 

Make sure you’re ready. This short guide outlines the basic skills and equipment you’ll need to succeed in the CAT Program.

👇Download here:

CAT Program Skills Baseline Prep Document