How to become a web accessibility developer

Is becoming a web accessibility developer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do web accessibility developers do?

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How to become a Web Accessibility Developer

Becoming a web accessibility developer requires a combination of education, practical experience, and a deep understanding of web accessibility principles and guidelines. Here are the steps to help you pursue a career as a web accessibility developer:

  • Educational Background: Start by obtaining a strong educational foundation in computer science, information technology, web design, or a related field. A bachelor's degree provides you with the fundamental knowledge of programming languages, web technologies, and software development processes.
  • Learn Web Accessibility Principles: Familiarize yourself with web accessibility standards and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) developed by the W3C. Understand the principles of perceivability, operability, understandability, and robustness. Learn how to apply these principles to websites and web applications to ensure they are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Practice your skills by working on web accessibility projects. Create accessible websites, test existing websites for accessibility issues using various assistive technologies, and learn how to fix common problems. Building a portfolio of accessible web projects can showcase your expertise to potential employers.
  • Master Assistive Technologies: Become proficient in using assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition software, and keyboard navigation tools. Understanding how people with disabilities interact with digital content is essential for designing accessible websites and applications.
  • Stay Updated with Tools and Techniques: Stay current with the latest web accessibility tools and techniques. Familiarize yourself with browser extensions and developer tools that aid in accessibility testing. Learn about automated testing tools and manual testing methodologies used to evaluate web accessibility.
  • Participate in Web Accessibility Communities: Engage with web accessibility communities and organizations such as the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) and the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). Join online forums, attend webinars, and participate in discussions to learn from experts in the field and stay updated with industry trends.
  • Earn Relevant Certifications (Optional): Consider obtaining certifications related to web accessibility, such as the IAAP Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) certification (see below). While not mandatory, certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.
  • Develop Soft Skills: Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills. As a web accessibility developer, you'll often work with diverse teams, including designers, developers, and content creators. The ability to communicate accessibility concepts effectively and collaborate with team members is essential.
  • Apply for Internships or Entry-Level Positions: Look for internships or entry-level positions related to web accessibility. Practical experience in a professional setting will provide you with valuable insights and hands-on experience in real-world accessibility projects.
  • Network and Seek Mentorship: Network with professionals in the web accessibility field. Attend conferences, meetups, and events related to accessibility. Seeking mentorship from experienced web accessibility developers can provide valuable guidance and open up opportunities for learning and growth.

Certifications
There are certifications related to accessibility and assistive technology that can be valuable for professionals working in web accessibility, such as:

  • IAAP Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC): Offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), CPACC certification demonstrates your knowledge of accessibility fundamentals, principles, and best practices. While it's not solely for web developers, it covers essential concepts related to web accessibility.
  • Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (CPWA): Offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), the CPWA certification is specifically focused on web accessibility. It covers various topics related to web technologies, design principles, and assistive technologies.
  • WAS Certification: The Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) Certification, offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), covers a wide range of accessibility topics, including web accessibility. It is a comprehensive certification that demonstrates expertise in multiple areas of accessibility.
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals: While not specific to web accessibility, this certification from Microsoft demonstrates your understanding of AI technologies, including those that can be applied to improve accessibility, such as speech recognition and natural language processing.
  • Accessibility Professional Certification (Level I and II): Offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), this certification is for professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of accessibility principles. It covers various accessibility topics, including web accessibility.