As founder of Assistive Technology, Inc. (ATI) in 1995, Jim was a true visionary. He pioneered the industry's first integrated communication device for individuals with significant communication and physical challenges. He knew that these people needed and wanted to be able to do more than just speak an occasional phrase. The products he developed allowed them to have full access to a computer to write, send e-mail, surf the Web, control their televisions, communicate over the telephone, and learn new skills. He opened up the worlds of many people in many different ways.
Over the years, Jim engineered the growth of ATI from a handful of people to its current position as a strong leader in the industry. He developed a dedicated network of experienced sales consultants throughout the country, built talented product development teams for hardware and software, created a knowledgeable funding department, and expanded customer service and technical support departments to satisfy customer needs.
As our President and CEO, Jim was a great mentor, coach, and cheerleader. He expected a lot from his staff, and knew how to help them achieve their personal goals and the goals of the company. Our low turnover is a tribute to his leadership style. A significant number of employees worked with him for over 10 years.
Jim made ATI a fun place to work. He was high-spirited and playful and spread his joy throughout the office. He always dressed up for our Halloween parties, organized games and contests, and surprised us with lunch on frequent occasions. His enthusiasm and positive attitude were contagious.
Family was an integral part of Jim's life. He was a devoted husband of 30 years and a great father. When his children were young, Jim would occasionally show up at the office wearing an outrageous tie--either a "costume tie" they picked for him to wear that day, or a paper one they had made and colored for him. Jim would always wear the tie proudly, and not leave it in the car as some more self-conscious fathers might have done. He was always extremely proud of their academic and athletic accomplishments.
Outside of the office, Jim was a popular coach for local baseball, soccer, and basketball teams for boys and girls. He made teamwork and cooperation more important than the outcome of the game. Parents always wanted Jim to coach their child's team.
Jim was passionately devoted to our company's mission. He shared that passion with everyone he met and made it a part of everything he did. He loved this industry, he loved ATI, and most of all, he loved the individuals that our industry serves. All who knew Jim will always remember him. He will be deeply missed by those who have had the pleasure and privilege of working with him.
ATI will continue to operate in the way that Jim has guided us over the years. The Board of Directors has appointed Tara Rudnicki, VP of Finance and Administration, as ATI's new President. The management team, with a collective 43 years with the company, and the Board of Directors look forward to ATI's continued growth and success over the coming years.
~ The ATI Team
Condolences to ATI or to Jim's family or remembrances you wish to share may be sent to Assistive Technology, Inc., c/o Remembering Jim, 333 Elm St., Dedham, MA 02026. Donations in Jim's name for Sino Nasal Cancer Research may be made to Bounce for Life, c/o Tulane Health Science Center, Hematology/Oncology, 1430 Tulane Ave. SL-78, New Orleans, LA 70112.
As founder of Assistive Technology, Inc. (ATI) in 1995, Jim was a true visionary. He pioneered the industry's first integrated communication device for individuals with significant communication and physical challenges. He knew that these people needed and wanted to be able to do more than just speak an occasional phrase. The products he developed allowed them to have full access to a computer to write, send e-mail, surf the Web, control their televisions, communicate over the telephone, and learn new skills. He opened up the worlds of many people in many different ways.
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