Program overview
The built environment can be extremely challenging for people with disabilities as they face a range of barriers that can make it difficult for them to fully participate in society. These barriers are related to various aspects, such as architecture, communication, programmatic, and policy limitations.
Public places such as stores, banks, offices, municipal buildings, and restaurants are often inaccessible due to a lack of proper infrastructure. Many of these places are not wheelchair accessible, which can make it nearly impossible for individuals with mobility-related disabilities to enter and use them.
Moreover, many individuals with disabilities face communication barriers due to a lack of assistive technology, sign language interpreters, or other support systems. Communication barriers can make it difficult for people with disabilities to communicate with others and participate in daily activities such as socializing, working, or attending school. As a result, they are often excluded from community events and other social gatherings.
The CAM Training program addresses all of this and more, with a heavy focus on access within the built environment. The program covers structural accessibility, equal policies and practices, accessible communication, and advocacy techniques for partnering with organizations and individuals to be successful in making communities more accessible to people with disabilities.
The complete CAM program includes a two-day Beginner CAM Training, a one-day Advanced CAM Training, and a two-hour On-Site Site Visit Training.
Who it's for
CAM Training is designed for people who want to advocate for increased access in their community and those who want to understand their obligations to provide access to the disability community, such as building inspectors, architects, and Commissions on Disability.
Beginner CAM Training: Beyond Wheelchair Ramps
This is a two-day training lasting 5 hours each day (10 hours total), with short breaks throughout.
In Beginner CAM Training, we cover:
- History of disability laws, regulations, and rights
- Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB) regulations
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for accessible design
- New construction/alterations and existing facilities
- Effective communication
- How to survey a facility
- How to advocate for access
Beginner CAM trainings are scheduled on a regular basis. Dates and registration links are listed on this page and on our events page.
2025 Beginner CAM Training schedule
Beginner CAM training is held virtually over Zoom. Typically, the virtual training runs from 10 AM until 3 PM for 2 consecutive or non-consecutive days. Registration is required. Please see the registration link below each session heading.
This information is updated regularly, so please check back often.
Registration note:
Please be aware: The link will register you for Day 1 only. We will ensure you are registered for Day 2 so that you will receive the link for Day 2 directly from Zoom.
Registration is limited. If you receive a message that the registration is full, please sign up for another training date.
If you have any questions about the training or if you need assistance in registering, contact Ralph DeCicco, MOD's Access Specialist at Ralph.DeCicco@mass.gov or (617) 979-7312.
CAM Training - March:
Date: Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 and Thursday, March 13, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
March CAM Registration - Class Full
CAM Training - May:
Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 and Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
May CAM Registration Link
CAM Training - September:
Date: Thursday, September 18, 2025 and Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
September CAM Registration Link
CAM Training - October
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025 and Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
October CAM Registration Link
Advanced CAM Training: In the Field
You must complete the Beginner CAM Training to attend Advanced CAM Training. This is a one-day, 4-5 hour training with short breaks throughout.
In Advanced CAM Training, we dive into more detail on scoping requirements under various codes and discuss specific case examples together. Once this training is completed, you will know the steps to take before a site survey, which regulations may apply to different sites, requirements for facilities undergoing renovations, and how and when to submit a report letter.
Upon completion of Advanced CAM Training, participants will receive a Community Access Monitor certificate and a workbook with information on access legislation and a step-by-step process for conducting assessments and encouraging voluntary compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Architectural Access Board Rules and Regulations.
Advanced CAM Trainings are scheduled on a regular basis. If you have completed a Beginner CAM Training, you will be notified by email about upcoming Advanced CAM Trainings.
2025 Advanced CAM Training schedule
These trainings are available for people who have completed the 2-day CAM training in the past. You will be directly invited from MOD through email.
ACAM Training - April:
Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
ACAM Training - June:
Date: Thursday, June 12, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
ACAM Training - August:
Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
ACAM Training - November:
Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
Location: Virtual on Zoom
On-Site Site Visit Training: Hands-On Practice
You must complete both the 2-day Beginner CAM training and the 1-day Advanced CAM training to be eligible for On-Site Site Visit Training. This is held in person and lasts approximately two hours.
During the training, you will survey a building and gain a comprehensive understanding of the code requirements and regulations associated with MAAB CMR 521. We guide attendees through the process of identifying these requirements to ensure compliance.
The training provides a hands-on opportunity to practice key measurement techniques learned from ACAM training, which are essential for accurately assessing various areas. The hands-on practice includes both interior and exterior elements, such as:
- Parking spaces: Evaluate the design and layout of accessible parking spaces, focusing on width, signage, and proximity to building entrances
- Walkways, sidewalks, and paths: Assess the dimensions and surface conditions of pathways to ensure they provide safe and convenient access
- Curb cuts: Measure the specifications for curb cuts to ensure smooth transitions from sidewalks to streets for wheelchair users
- Entrances: Understand the proper dimensions for accessible entry and exit points to ensure compliance with regulatory standards
- Interior spaces: Consider the accessibility of counters, the goods and services offered, and the routes available for navigation within the space
- Elevators and lifts: Assess the accessibility features of elevators and lifts to ensure they meet the needs of all users
- Ramps: Learn how to measure the slope, width, and surface characteristics of ramps to provide safe access for individuals with mobility challenges
- Restrooms: Identify the essential features needed in accessible restrooms, including stall dimensions, grab bar placements, and sink heights
On-Site Site Visit Trainings are scheduled on a regular basis. If you have completed Beginner and Advanced CAM Training, you will be notified by email about upcoming Site Visit Trainings.
2025 On-Site Site Visit Training schedule
These trainings are available for people who have completed the2-day Beginner CAM training and the 1-day Advanced CAM training. You will be directly invited from MOD through email.
Dates have not yet been set for 2025 On-Site Site Visit Training. Please check this page for updates.
| Last updated: | November 22, 2024 |
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