Accessibility Consulting Partners

Background:

Glenn Staton’s journey into accessibility consulting began with an experience that forever shaped his perspective. After completing his Bachelor’s degree in 2011, Glenn joined a well-respected ADA consulting firm, where he was mentored by an individual who used a wheelchair. Watching his mentor navigate daily barriers, from accessing buildings to participating in public life, opened Glenn’s eyes to the real, often invisible, challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

ACP with Accessibility Consulting Partners

One defining moment still stands out—his mentor, who was fully qualified to participate in data collection, opted out of specific tasks because many locations were inaccessible to him. This experience ignited something deep within Glenn—a desire to make sure no one is left behind and that every individual, regardless of physical ability, has the same opportunities and access to spaces we all take for granted.

From that moment, Glenn knew his calling. In 2018, he earned his Certified Access Specialist (CASp) certification, further solidifying his role in this vital field. This certification allowed him to take his commitment to the next level—helping to shape more inclusive spaces through the lens of accessibility standards. With every project, Glenn dedicates himself to ensuring that public and private spaces comply with accessibility requirements. However, more than that, he works to create environments where every person can feel welcome and included.

Expertise:

Image showing inclusive design with a set of stairs with a ramp adjoined to the right to an entrance into a facility.

Glenn’s professional expertise is comprehensive and wide-ranging. He is highly proficient in many physical accessibility standards, including the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, ANSI A117.1 standards (2009 and 2017), the Fair Housing Act (FHA) Design Manual, and the California Building Code (CBC) Chapters 11A and 11B. His extensive knowledge also covers specialized areas, such as guidelines for outdoor developed areas and passenger vessels, allowing him to provide critical insights across a diverse range of projects.

What sets Glenn apart is his ability to translate complex technical standards and translate them into real-world solutions that ensure compliance and improve the overall user experience. Accessibility is more than just following guidelines—it’s about creating truly usable spaces for everyone. Glenn’s focus on detailed data collection, analysis, and reporting ensures that any accessibility barriers are not only identified but effectively addressed. His role as an expert witness in legal cases related to accessibility has also allowed him to advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities, helping to uphold the laws designed to protect them.

Personal Note:

My passion for accessibility stems from witnessing individuals’ daily real-life struggles. From the beginning of my career, I’ve seen how frustrating and disheartening it can be for people to be excluded from everyday activities simply because the spaces weren’t designed with accessibility in mind. Over the years, that passion has only deepened, and one of my proudest achievements has been co-founding Accessibility Consulting Partners, Inc. with Nick Kelley. Together, we built ACP with a shared vision of improving accessibility in every project we take on.

Nick’s journey has been a constant source of inspiration for me. Despite facing the challenges of a rare neuromuscular degenerative disease, Nick’s commitment to this work has never wavered. His transition from fieldwork to engaging with clients virtually hasn’t diminished his passion—in fact, it has strengthened our resolve as a team. We’re not just focused on compliance; we’re focused on creating spaces that reflect empathy and inclusivity. Seeing Nick’s dedication firsthand pushes all of us at ACP to ensure further accessibility reaches everyone, everywhere.

At ACP, our goal is to meet more than the minimum standards set by law. We’re here to create environments where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate and feel welcome. That’s what drives me—and it’s what drives our entire team daily.

Fun Fact:

Image showing someone frolfing

Outside of work, Glenn is a dedicated father to four children and an avid disc golfer. For him, disc golf is the perfect way to unwind, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors—spaces he continues making accessible for others through his work. The connection between his personal life and professional mission underscores his commitment to ensuring everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy the world around them.

At ACP, Glenn’s combination of technical expertise, leadership, and personal commitment to accessibility make him a vital part of our team. His dedication ensures that ACP delivers on its promises and reflects the mission of prioritizing accessibility in everything we do. We are proud to have him leading the way as we continue to create inclusive, welcoming spaces for all.