Championing Workplace Inclusion for People with Hearing Loss
By Michael Noble, Chair, HLAA Task Force for Accessible, Inclusive Employment
In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, accessibility and inclusion are more important than ever. Yet, for many individuals with hearing loss, barriers to meaningful employment persist. The HLAA Task Force for Accessible, Inclusive Employment was created to address these challenges head-on, ensuring that individuals with hearing loss, their employers, and allies have the tools and support they need to foster inclusive workplaces.
Meet the Task Force
The HLAA Task Force for Accessible, Inclusive Employment is a dedicated group of professionals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared commitment to advancing workplace accessibility. As chair of this incredible team, I am continually inspired by their passion and expertise. Our goal is to create tangible solutions that enhance career opportunities and satisfaction for individuals with hearing loss while equipping employers with the knowledge to foster more inclusive environments.
This dedicated team of 12 professionals brings expertise from various industries, offering invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within employment accessibility. Whether through lived experience, advocacy, or professional expertise, every member of this task force plays a vital role in driving change.
Why This Work Matters
Employment is about more than just earning a paycheck—it’s about dignity, purpose, and contribution. For individuals with hearing loss, barriers such as communication challenges, lack of workplace accommodations, and outdated misconceptions can limit career opportunities. By addressing these barriers, we’re not just helping individuals; we’re enriching workplaces with diverse talent and perspectives.
Now, more than ever, it is crucial to reaffirm the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in professional settings. We recognize these challenges and are committed to ensuring that employment equity remains a priority.
2025 Strategic Priorities
To create real, lasting impact, we have established three key priorities for 2025:
- Expanding Our Network: A strong network is essential for advocacy and progress. We will launch a shared, internal database where task force members can consolidate key contacts, LinkedIn connections, Facebook groups, and other resources. This collective knowledge will strengthen our outreach and impact.
- Launching a Task Force Page on a Major Social Media Platform: Awareness is a crucial component of change. We will establish an official page to serve as a hub for information, updates, and resources on inclusive employment. We will incorporate key messaging around creating a “person-centered workforce.”
- Hosting Three Webinars and One In-Person Event: Education and conversation drive progress. In 2025, we will host three virtual webinars—one in winter, one in spring, and one in fall—covering critical topics related to hearing loss and employment. Additionally, we will hold an in-person session at the HLAA 2025 conference in Indianapolis, providing a valuable opportunity for deeper engagement and collaboration.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Space
We understand that navigating the current employment landscape can be challenging. Our task force is committed to fostering a safe, supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, challenges, and successes. If you ever need guidance or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to any of us—we’re here to help.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Real change happens when we work together. Whether you are a job seeker, an employer, or an advocate, we encourage you to get involved. Attend our webinars and share our resources with your networks. If you have a resource, a key contact, or an influencer in this space who could help our task force further our mission and objectives, please reach out to us. We are always looking for new ways to help more people and amplify our collective voices. Together, we can create a workforce that is truly accessible and inclusive for all.
For more information or to connect with the task force, feel free to reach out to me at michael@josnoble.com.
We look forward to working with you to build a future where every individual, regardless of hearing ability, has the opportunity to thrive in their career.
About the Author
Michael Noble was born with profound hearing loss and is a cochlear implant recipient, a journey that has shaped his passion for accessibility and inclusion. With over 15 years of experience in the medical device industry, he currently serves as the Vice President of Global Marketing for Senzime, a Swedish medical device company dedicated to advancing patient monitoring solutions. Thanks to the unwavering support of his parents, family, and community—including organizations like HLAA—Michael has built a thriving career and continues to advocate for inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with hearing loss.