The Baker College Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, in collaboration with the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District (MAISD), is making a profound impact on the community by building ten Toddler Mobility Trainers (TMTs). These devices provide young children with mobility challenges the opportunity to explore their world independently—an essential step in their growth and development.
This partnership supplies a vital resource to families in need and provides Baker College OTA students with hands-on experience in building assistive devices. Through this initiative, students gain practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of the real-world barriers individuals face.
“Our partnership is building wheelchairs, relationships, and empathy while strengthening Baker College’s connection to the community we serve,” said Cassie Kregger, MBA, COTA/L, Program Director for the OTA Program in Muskegon. “This collaboration is a beautiful example of how everyone benefits when a community comes together.”
The partnership began when Kregger met Corinn Hower of MAISD at the Muskegon Chamber Business Breakfast. Kregger proposed a new Level 1 fieldwork model to Hower, who embraced the challenge, and together they developed a successful pilot program. That led to MAISD inviting Baker College students to participate in a TOM Global initiative, which is a platform that provides open-source designs and resources for creating assistive technology solutions.
The TMTs are being assembled with the support of local businesses, including Muskegon FabLab, CJ Woodworking, and AllRoute, which contributed materials, workspace, and expertise. OTA students take part in every aspect of the building process, from cutting and assembling materials to sewing cushions, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in adaptive technology.
“These mobility trainers bridge the gap for children whose families may not have access to multiple mobility devices,” Kregger explained. “Kids grow fast, and insurance often only covers one device, leaving many families without the right tools at the right time. By offering them through the school system like a library, children can use the trainers for as long as they need and return them when they outgrow them. This ensures children develop the skills they need while alleviating financial stress for families.”
Many families prioritize a medical stroller over a wheelchair because it lasts longer, is portable, and allows their child to be included in everyday activities. While this is a practical choice, it often comes at the cost of the child’s independence and motor development.
“This project embodies Baker College’s mission of empowering students to create a meaningful impact,” Kregger said. “We are creating opportunities for our OTA students to recognize the needs within their community, enabling them to connect with leaders and organizations working to bridge the gap. Through these interactions, students can contribute to solutions. By demonstrating advocacy and empathy, they experience the transformative education Baker College provides, equipping them to create lasting change in the world around them.”
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more about the Occupational Therapy Assistant program, and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.