About
Empowering Independence Through Technology
M.I.T.E.C. (Missouri Inclusive Technology and Education Center) is a newly established nonprofit organization based in Columbia, Missouri, dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through education, assistive technology, and job skills training. Our mission is to increase independence and provide opportunities for meaningful employment for Missourians with disabilities. We believe that technology can be a powerful tool for inclusion and are committed to making it accessible to everyone. With your help and donations, we can make a real improvement to the lives of Missourians with disabilities.
Empowering Independence Through Technology and Education
Meet the dedicated professionals driving our mission to enhance accessibility and opportunity.

William Higgins
Assistive Technology Specialist
William is a tech enthusiast with a love for the outdoors and a strong commitment to teaching. As a husband and father of four, he finds joy in fishing and exploring nature. With extensive experience in electronics and tech devices, William is a seasoned professional who also works as a teacher, offering technology-related classes for individuals on the autism spectrum. His passion for helping others and making a positive impact in the community led him to co-found M.I.T.E.C.. William is driven by the belief that technology can bridge gaps in accessibility and empower individuals to live more independently.

Aaron Shepherd
Job Readiness Trainer
Aaron is a technology enthusiast with a deep passion for helping others. As a husband and father of two, family is at the heart of everything he does. His personal experiences with his uncle, who was institutionalized due to developmental disabilities, and his grandfather, who faced challenges with independent living, inspired him to leverage technology to make a difference. Aaron has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of assistive technology and is dedicated to sharing that knowledge to improve the lives of others. His goal is to ensure that individuals with disabilities and seniors can benefit from modern advancements, achieving greater independence and a higher quality of life.
Empowering Independence Through Assistive Technology
Discover heartfelt stories from individuals whose lives have been transformed by our services.
“I am writing to express my gratitude towards your organization for the work you accomplished on my parents’ house.
Your company demonstrated a level of unparalleled commitment, prowess, and meticulousness, which surpassed all of our expectations.
You have exceeded all expectations and set the bar high in service delivery. I look forward to using your company’s services again in the future, and will wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone in need of quality service.”

Joseph Brown
Client
“They were extremely amazing to work with and very thorough with explaining how to work the technology.
My 15-year-old son with special needs has so much more freedom while being safe because of their expertise.”

Sheree P.
Parent of a Child with Special Needs
“They are very compassionate about their work. Very professional, and they got the job done quickly and efficiently.
I’m so glad that we were able to come in contact with these people. They take pride in what they do.
They also take their time and give you different resources that you can pull from when you are disabled or elderly, to help with different issues that might prohibit you from having the best quality of life. Very highly recommended.”

Jessica B.
Client