accessibility advocate, consultant, writer, and assistive technology tester
Esther Klang is an accessibility advocate, consultant, writer, and assistive technology tester whose work is grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience. After a brain stem tumor surgery in 2006 left her quadriplegic and dependent on ventilator support, Esther dedicated her life to advancing accessibility, independence, and inclusion for people with disabilities. Today, she leverages nearly two decades of experience navigating disability and assistive technology to help organizations create more accessible and usable digital experiences.
As a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC), Esther collaborates with developers, businesses, and community organizations to evaluate websites, software, and assistive technologies from a real-world user perspective. She is also a speaker, educator, and mentor who works to increase awareness of digital accessibility and disability inclusion through writing, public presentations, and advocacy.
Through her website, Esther’s Walking Journey, Esther shares personal stories, accessibility insights, and resources for individuals with disabilities, families, caregivers, and professionals. Her platform also chronicles her experiences using the Atalante X exoskeleton as she pursues her goal of walking again, highlighting the transformative impact of emerging mobility technologies on independence and quality of life.
Driven by the belief that technology should empower everyone, Esther combines lived experience, technical knowledge, and a passion for advocacy to help build a more accessible and inclusive world.
Episode 155: Technology, Accessibility, and Equality in the Real World