MY PROFESSIONAL FOUNDATION
Advancing Equity through Technology and Policy
I completed a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Georgia Tech's Center for Advanced Communications Policy in June 2026, and a Georgia LEND Fellowship at Georgia State University in April 2026. I now work independently as an AI researcher and consultant. My research examines the benefits and risks of Artificial Intelligence and Assistive Technology for the disability community. I believe technology should be an equalizer, not a barrier. My work ensures that as we build the next generation of tools, we do so with the disability community, not just for them.
I don’t believe in "fixing" people; I believe in designing better systems. My approach integrates:
- Mixed Methods Research: Using data to map the impacts of policy and technology on equity.
- Behavioral Science (ABA & ACT): Applying psychological flexibility and functional skills to help people and organizations thrive.
- Lived Experience: Bringing the "insider's lens" of an autistic professional to every project, ensuring that neurodiversity is respected and celebrated.
Outside of my research and consulting, I serve as a Trustee for the Lightyear Foundation, advocating for accessible STEM education. Whether I am in a lab at Georgia Tech, consulting for a global organization, or working 1:1 with a client, my mission is to create a future where everyone has the tools and the space to be authentically themselves.
My 'Why': Authentic Navigation
BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Julie Eshleman is a consultant and researcher dedicated to bridging the gap between technology, human behavior, and disability equity.
She focuses on designing neuroaffirming systems and inclusive infrastructures where everyone can thrive authentically as themselves.
ACADEMIC & PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Education
- Ph.D. in Sociology and Social Policy
- PostGraduate Certificate in Organizational and Business Psychology
- M.Ed in Low-Incidence Disabilities and Applied Behavior Analysis
- B.S. in General and Special Education
Core Competencies
- Behavior Analysis
- Acceptance & Commitment Training
- Disability Supports Auditing
- Neuroaffirming Systems Design
- Person-centered Assistive Technology
- Research Knowledge Translation, Communication
PUBLICATIONS & ENGAGEMENT
Key Publications
- Everyday tech, everyday autonomy: Understanding how assistive technology works in UK care settings
- Eshleman, J., Moon, N., Harris, F., & Linden, M. (2024). Empowering accessibility: The dynamics of assistive technology acquisition
SKILLS & ORGANIZATIONS
Selected Experience
- Founder & Consultant — 2017 - Present
- Researcher — Leonard Cheshire Assistive Technology (2018 - present)
- Clinical Behavior Analyst — 2010 - present
Professional Organizations
- Georgia Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce Member
- Lightyear Foundation Trustee
- Association of University Centers on Disability