Background:
At 18, Zack Kelley made a bold leap into ADA consulting, a career choice driven by resilience, personal experience, and a desire to make a difference. His journey wasn’t without its challenges—far from it. For nearly a decade, Zack endured the effects of Post-Chronic Concussion migraines, a condition caused by multiple serious accidents throughout his adolescence. One of the most memorable was a wild snow tubing accident that left him hospitalized, followed by a severe hit during high school that left him taken by ambulance.
These health battles made school an uphill struggle, ultimately leading Zack to pause his college journey to focus on recovery. This difficult decision opened a door he hadn’t anticipated—an opportunity to pursue a career that aligned with his personal experiences. Having spent half his high school years on a 504 Plan, Zack knew firsthand the value of accessibility and the need for inclusive environments. His connection to this field only grew deeper after another life-altering event in his twenties: while stopped at a red light, Zack was rear-ended by a car traveling over 40 mph. This incident strengthened his resolve to ensure that accessibility was not just a goal but a reality for everyone.
Expertise:
Today, Zack is a cornerstone of our team at Accessibility Consulting Partners, Inc. (ACP). His experience and knowledge of the Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) make him an invaluable resource for identifying and addressing accessibility barriers others may overlook. During facility assessments, Zack doesn’t just check boxes; he ensures that every detail meets ADA standards, constantly thinking of improving accessibility for all users.
In his previous roles as Lead Safety Officer and Field Supervisor, Zack cultivated a deep understanding of safety protocols and accountability, which he brings into every project he manages today. Now, as Deputy Project Manager, Zack expertly balances the intricacies of project timelines, budgets, and execution, always keeping accessibility at the forefront of his decision-making. Whether it’s ensuring that sidewalks are navigable or buildings are compliant, Zack approaches each task with a meticulous eye and a passion for creating inclusive spaces.
Zack’s work extends beyond the technical aspects of consulting. His deep connection to accessibility fuels a relentless drive to make a positive impact on the lives of others. His ability to see the broader picture and focus on long-term solutions has made him an asset to our team and the communities we serve.
Personal Note:
My journey has shown me that accessibility isn’t just a professional pursuit—it’s a personal mission. From facing my health challenges to learning about stories of my wife assisting her mother, who used a wheelchair, I’ve come to view accessibility through a much more intimate lens. And recently, as I’ve watched my twin brother, Nick, navigate his own health struggles, I’ve felt an even stronger drive to make a difference in this space.
The truth is, even if you don’t live with a disability yourself, chances are you know someone who does. It could be a family member, a close friend, or even a stranger you pass on the street. The disability community is the largest minority group in the country, and it’s one that any of us could join at any time. That’s why prioritizing accessibility isn’t just about helping a specific group—it’s about making the world better for everyone. Creating inclusive spaces removes barriers and allows individuals to live their lives to the fullest, benefiting us all.
Fun Fact:
My love for music matches my passion for accessibility. As a skilled multi-instrumentalist, I enjoy playing various instruments and drawing inspiration from artists like Bon Iver and Gregory Alan Isakov. But my dedication to helping others doesn’t stop at music. I am currently working toward my EMT certification, driven by a desire to directly and meaningfully impact my community. I hope to volunteer with a local fire department, blending my passion with my professional commitment to making the world a more accessible place.
When Zack is not working on consulting projects or pursuing his EMT certification, he is an avid fan of the Colorado Avalanche. Whether catching a game with family and friends or simply relaxing with good music, Zack values the connections that unite people. For him, it’s all about finding those moments where personal passions meet professional purpose.