Daniel Westfall's A11y Platform
CertReq
Welcome to "CertReq," my platform dedicated to my career in accessibility as well as my journey toward acquiring the CPACC and WAS certifications. This is the platform I'll use to host my portfolio, resume, and achievements in my accessibility studies. In my role as an Accessibility Auditor Team Lead, my resolute commitment revolves around improving online experiences to ensure maximum accessibility for all individuals.
Just as the "certreq" command in the digital realm handles certificate requests, this site will serve as a space where I document the process of obtaining certifications and recording my successes in the accessibility field. Visit my accessibility journal for my latest thoughts. This will be a platform where I share the knowledge I gather and illustrate how this newfound understanding can be applied.
About Me
As a professional accessibility auditor, I bring a unique background to the table that spans construction quality assurance, customer service, entrepreneurship, and full-stack web development. With a detail-oriented and meticulous approach, I've honed my skills in ensuring high-quality results in every project I undertake.
My diverse experiences include running table games and dealing in annual baccarat tournaments, building and running an award-winning coffee shop from scratch, and developing my skills in full-stack web development and UX design through MIT xPro and Google certificates. With a focus on the user experience and user interface design, I've learned about the importance of conducting research, empathizing with users, and creating wireframes and prototypes with tools like Figma and Adobe XD.
In my work as an accessibility auditor, I bring my passion for ensuring that all users have equal access to technology and digital experiences. I'm well-versed in tools like ANDI, WCAG Color Contrast Checker, Section 508 Trusted Tester, WCAG 2.1, and WAI ARIA, and I'm experienced in manual and automated accessibility testing. I'm committed to making the digital world a more inclusive and accessible place for everyone.
Daniel's Projects
Screen Reader Audit Checklist
A simple checklist made using Bootstrap forms that's navigable by screen readers I built for a co-worker who is a native screen reader user. He is able to enter his results and download a text file for our records.
Daniel's Certifications
JAWS Certified Individual
The JAWS Certified Individual certificate is a credential awarded to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using the JAWS screen reading software to enhance accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.
NVDA Expert Certification
The NVDA Expert Certification is a credential awarded to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using the the NVDA screen reader to enhance accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.
DHS Trusted Tester V5
The DHS Trusted Tester V5 certification validates expertise in accessibility testing methodologies and compliance with U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accessibility standards.
Google UX Design Professional Certificate
The Google UX Design Professional Certificate is a comprehensive program that equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in user experience (UX) design, offered by Google in partnership with Coursera.
Advanced Google Analytics
Advanced Google Analytics is a comprehensive course that delves into advanced tracking, data analysis, and reporting techniques to help users gain deeper insights into website and app performance.
Coming Soon!
This is just a placeholder for my next Certificate! Hopefully the CPACC...
Key Skills
- Deep understanding of accessibility standards and guidelines (WCAG, WAI-ARIA, Section 508)
- Experienced in auditing and providing guidance for digital products including:
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- Websites
- Native Mobile apps
- Demonstrated experience in creating, remediating, and auditing these document formats:
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- PDFs
- Google Workspace Documents
- Microsoft Office Documents
- Provides remediation feedback and solutions in:
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- HTML, CSS, and JavaScript coding suggestions
- WAI-ARIA based solutions
- Creative solutions to incorporate accessibility into complex existing systems
- Solid understanding of assistive technology and accessibility testing tools such as:
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- PC: JAWS, NVDA, Windows Narrator
- MacOs: VoiceOver
- iOS: VoiceOver
- Android: TalkBack
- Chromebook: ChromeVox
- Android Accessibility Suite, Accessibility Scanner, Switch Access, and Voice Access
- WebAIM Wave
- Colour Contrast Analyzer (CCA)
- PDF Accessibility Checker (PAC 2024)
- Performed full and detailed audits producing complete Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPAT®) or Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR)
Accessibility Auditor and Team Lead
QuaverEd
AUGUST 2022 - Current
- Provides guidance on changes needed to update existing user interfaces and proprietary frameworks to comply with WCAG 2.2 and Section 508 guidelines, resulting in increased accessibility.
- Collaborates effectively with cross-functional teams to solve accessibility issues and come up with creative solutions.
- Creates detailed Accessibility Conformance Reports (ACRs) for internal products using ITI's Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT), effectively communicating accessibility compliance to stakeholders to the latest WCAG standards.
- Leads a team of full-time employees and contractors including native users of assistive technologies.
- Trains staff on WCAG 2.2 guidelines and updates, Section 508, and digital document accessibility auditing.
- Works collaboratively to develop, maintain, and implement digital accessibility technologies, policies, standards, and best practices.
- Creates standards and methods of tagging and remediating PDFs and other digital documents to meet WCAG and PDF/UA standards.
- Remediates digital documents for accessibility including adding form elements and ensuring proper reading order.
- Conducts accessibility audits of teacher presented lesson materials, student and teacher specific interfaces, and highly interactive music composition tools.
- Performs thorough automated and manual testing of curricula using assistive technologies such as JAWS, VoiceOver, NVDA, ChromeVox, and Windows Narrator guaranteeing improved user experiences with AT.
Takeaways from Accessibility Audit Team Lead
Skills
In my current role as the Accessibility Auditing Team Lead, I am spearheading the development of a standardized approach for auditing unique resources within an educational curriculum. While actively pursuing the CPACC certification, I am leading a growing team in the comprehensive evaluation of web-based software, PDFs, and all other materials provided to our users. This involves a deep understanding and interpretation of the WCAG guidelines, fostering creative thinking and innovative solutions, and applying meticulous attention to detail. Ensuring accessibility in educational resources has become not just a role but a passion, as I work towards making digital content inclusive for all learners.
Calibration
Technician
K&S Associates
JUNE - AUGUST 2022
- Conducted a variety of calibrations, including NIST Traceable & AAPM accredited radiation therapy calibrations from Cs-137 and Co-60 gamma rays, LDR and HDR brachytherapy calibrations, and diagnostic X-ray calibrations, with a strong focus on accuracy and precision.
- Documented all calibration processes and prepared reports as required, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.
- Developed comprehensive reports and certificates about completed calibrations, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders had access to necessary information.
Takeaways from Radiation Laboratory Technician
Skills
Taking on the role of a calibration technician while concurrently pursuing web development was a unique journey. Drawing from my prior experience handling nuclear devices, I honed my skills in meticulous attention to detail, precise inspections, and effective troubleshooting. This background has equipped me with a valuable set of qualities that I'm applied to both the world of calibration and now the realm of web development, creating a dynamic blend of technical expertise and problem-solving in my career path.
Manager and
Co-Founder
CoffeeTalk
MARCH 2018 - JULY 2021
- Conceptualized and designed a customer-focused experience, including visual design and retail products, resulting in recognition as Nextdoor's Neighborhood Favorite Coffee Shop twice annually.
- Gathered valuable customer insights and feedback about attitudes, emotions, and behaviors, using this information to curate a fresh and well-received seasonal menu of products for customers, with a focus on maximizing consumer satisfaction and accessibility for all.
- Developed advertising and marketing strategies, including digital materials for social media, and coordinated promotions and events to engage customers and the community at large.
- Planned, organized, and led in-store promotions and events, and collaborated with local minority organizations to promote cultural awareness and inclusion, with a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusion for all customers.
- Designed the storefront layout to create an intuitive and well-organized flow from ordering to enjoying products, resulting in a smooth process with maximum efficiency and minimal wait time for all customers, including those with disabilities.
Takeaways from Co-owner
Skills
Owning a business and interacting with a diverse group of customers was a transformative experience in my life. It provided me with a unique perspective on the needs, preferences, and challenges faced by people from various backgrounds. The interactions I had with customers highlighted the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in our increasingly digital world.
As that chapter of my life in business ownership closed, I found myself drawn to the world of coding and web accessibility. My interactions with customers underscored the significance of creating online experiences that cater to everyone, regardless of their abilities. This realization led me to explore the field of web development and accessibility, where I could contribute to making the internet a more inclusive and user-friendly space for all.
In pursuing coding and web accessibility, I've embarked on a journey to bridge the digital divide and ensure that technology is accessible to a broader and more diverse audience. This transition represents a meaningful shift in my career and personal goals, driven by a commitment to creating a more inclusive digital landscape.
Laboratory
Technician & Field Technician III
Braun Intertec
AUGUST 2014 - MARCH 2018
- Ensured execution of project specifications and concepts to acceptable quality standards while any challenges or problems were defined and addressed to maintain project momentum and integrity by collaborating closely with engineers and teams on-site.
- Performed detail-oriented inspections and analytical problem-solving in fast-paced environments in up to six different sites per day.
- Effectively communicated all issues with relevant engineers and teams and collaborated on solutions, ultimately following through with the implementation and results.
- Responsible for maintaining a high level of quality and consistency while performing testing and iterative testing methods.
- Multitasked and effectively managed timely testing while delivering accurate results deadline-consciously.
Takeaways from Lab and Field Tech
Skills
Spending four years as a field inspector, conducting on-site inspections on various construction sites, was a dynamic journey. This role demanded a fusion of construction materials expertise and a keen understanding of site-specific plans to complete inspections in constantly evolving environments. It not only enriched my technical skills but also instilled the ability to adapt swiftly and think on my feet. This experience proved invaluable, equipping me with the readiness to handle diverse challenges and make informed decisions in the ever-changing landscape of the construction industry.
Table Games
Dealer
Kansas Star Casino
NOVEMBER 2012 - JULY 2014
- Facilitated games to provide customers with the highest quality gaming experience possible while upholding game security by adhering to state-regulated guidelines.
- Provided exceptional customer service with the property’s service standards and brand attitudes and was chosen to deal in the annual Lunar New Year Baccarat tournament twice due to the high level of customer focus and consistency.
Takeaways from Table Games Dealer
Skills
Working as a table games dealer provided me with a unique skill set. I had to think quickly, pay close attention to multiple aspects of the game, and multitask efficiently, all while ensuring that patrons had an enjoyable experience. This role not only sharpened my ability to manage fast-paced, high-pressure situations but also taught me the art of customer service and creating a welcoming atmosphere, making it a truly enriching experience.
Field
Equipment and Warehouse Supervisor
Golder Associates, Inc.
MARCH 2005 - JULY 2012
- Maintained, prepared for use, and storage of field equipment.
- Managed inventory and sample storage at an off-site warehouse.
- Supervised the proper storage and disposal of samples, including contaminated and foreign soils.
- Preformed interface shear testing of soils and/or geosyntetic interfaces. Concrete testing including mix studies, sample creation, curing, and strength testing of samples.
- Preformed field work including air quality monitoring on a potentially hazardous construction site, and assisted in the relocation of an endangered plant species.
Takeaways from Field Equipment and Warehouse Supervisor
Skills
As a warehouse and field equipment manager, I was responsible for complex lab testing, sample storage, and managing the distribution and tracking the location and usage of field equipment. This role demanded qualities like precision, attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to maintain a systematic approach in a dynamic environment. These attributes closely align with the qualities needed for a proficient web accessibility auditor, ensuring an inclusive online experience for all users.
Laboratory Technician I & II
Golder Associates, Inc.
JUNE 1998 - MARCH 2005
- Prepared and performed various tests on synthetics implementing standards from ASTM, AASHTO, Geosynthetic Accreditation Institute (GAI), and Corps of Engineers.
- Duties include ensuring the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and log in/out procedures.
- Prepare and perform various tests on soils implementing standards from ASTM, AASHTO, GAI, and Corps of Engineers.
- Prepared and performed various tests on synthetics implementing standards from ASTM, AASHTO, Geosynthetic Accreditation Institute (GAI), and Corps of Engineers.
- Duties include ensuring the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and log in/out procedures.
Takeaways from Laboratory Technician
Skills
My journey as a lab tech began with the most fundamental tasks and evolved into handling the most intricate of tests. In this role, I learned the art of conducting tests with precision, keenly observing details, and ensuring the consistency of testing methods and environmental conditions to achieve nothing short of accurate and precise results. This experience instilled in me the value of methodical work and meticulous attention to detail, skills that are fundamental not just in the lab but in any field that demands accuracy and reliability.Contact
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