The Last Swimmer in the Pool: Deaflympian Brooke Thompson on Adaptive Tech

More than 80% of disabilities are invisible, yet too often technology and workplace systems overlook these needs. In this episode, Rutgers swimmer and Deaflympian Brooke Thompson shares her inspiring journey—from Michigan lakes to the global stage—powered by adaptive technology and relentless advocacy.

Through her story, we uncover the bigger message for IT and business leaders: accessibility is not a "nice to have" or a compliance checkbox. It's about proactively listening, asking, and equipping people with the tools they need to thrive.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How adaptive technologies like cochlear implants, closed captioning, and visual strobes create equal playing fields
• Why up to 74% of workplace accommodation requests get denied—and how to fix it
• Practical "quick wins" IT leaders can implement for better accessibility
• The business case for inclusive technology beyond compliance
• How invisible disabilities impact millions of workers and students daily

Guest: Brooke Thompson is a Division I swimmer at Rutgers University, two-time Deaflympian, and SHI spokesperson. Born deaf, she competes at the highest level with the support of adaptive technologies and serves as an advocate for accessibility in sports, education, and the workplace.

Subscribe and Connect: Innovation Heroes is part of SHI Media. Find more episodes and IT leadership resources at blog.shi.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on YouTube @SHICorporation.

#Accessibility #InclusiveTechnology #WorkplaceInclusion #AdaptiveTech #ITLeadership #Deaflympics #SHI