In 2001, a group of Assistive Technology Professionals and interested others met to discuss the possibility of re-establishing a Michigan subdivision of TAM. Meetings were spent on exploring this possibility and possible activities. A main goal was in coordinating communication within the various branches of Assistive Technology agencies and groups within the state. This group also assisted in providing training on a state-wide basis through an Assistive Technology Institute and conferences.
On February 28, 2002, after over a year of planning, the first Annual Meeting of Michigan TAM was held at the state CEC convention. At that time, a slate of officers was voted upon and a constitution was ratified. Forms were submitted and approved to state and national CEC, making Michigan TAM an official entity. There was money in a budget from a past conference several years ago to use as seed money for the new subdivision.
To date, Michigan TAM has participated in several Assistive Technology Institutes and presented Assistive Technology related sessions at CEC state convention. TAM was instrumental in bringing together members of the field to create a set of competencies for Assistive Technology Specialists that can be used for the state of Michigan. Currently TAM is working to promote these competencies. TAM has facilitated a collaboration of AT related groups including Assistive Technology Regional Consortiums, MATR, Michigan Assistive Technology Resources, MACUL/Sig-Sped, State of Michigan, and Higher Education. This collaboration has resulted in better communication and understanding of the roles of each group.