From a young age, Sarah Uncle knew she wanted a career where she could make a difference, though she wasn’t sure what that would look like. Her journey began when she came across a university degree titled Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy). The description asked, “Do you want to help people?” That simple question resonated deeply. Today, she brings 20 years of experience to her role as a clinical educator for Independent Living Specialists in Australia.
(Editor’s note: Because Uncle is based in Australia, this interview was conducted via email to accommodate the time difference. Her responses reflect Australian English spelling and terminology.)
A Career Defined by Helping Others
“I didn’t know what to do when I finished school, but I knew I wanted to go to university,” Uncle said. Reading that brief course description set the trajectory of her career. At the time, she had no idea what occupational therapy was, but she understood that helping others gave her a sense of fulfillment. That feeling remains a driving force in her work today.
After graduating Uncle worked in a rehabilitation hospital on neurology and orthopedic wards. She then transitioned to private practice, working in pediatrics before shifting to a role as a pharmaceutical sales representative. During that time, she discovered a passion for educating health care professionals and researching the clinical efficacy of medicines and medical devices.
Her career took another turn following the birth of her third son, who was born with a rare syndrome. Uncle stepped back from full-time employment to care for him. On weekends, she took a role as a disability support worker, an expeience that profoundly shaped her perspective. “That experience was invaluable, both professionally and as a mother of a child with a disability,” she said.
Working in group homes, Uncle supported individuals with a range of physical and intellectual disabilities. She quickly learned to see each person beyond their diagnosis. “When you work closely with someone, you know them as a person, not a disability,” she said. The experience reinforced her appreciation for the value people with disabilities bring to their communities.
“I am so grateful for what my clients and son have taught me—about resilience, joy, perseverance, and fun. And about not sweating the small stuff,” Uncle said.
Today, as a clinical educator in the assistive technology sector at Independent Living Specialists, she draws on her occupational therapy training, pharmaceutical industry experience, and personal connections with the disability community to enrich her work.
Supporting Therapists Through Education
Uncle has worked as a clinical educator at Independent Living Specialists for five years. The Australian company, which has more than 700 staff and 54 retail locations, provides expert guidance in assistive technology across several divisions, including Home and Community, Complex Rehab, Kids, and Hospital and Pressure Care.
She initially worked with the Hospital and Pressure Care team, educating professionals on pressure injury prevention, a topic she is deeply passionate about. Her interest in the subject intensified after her son experienced preventable injuries during a hospital stay.
Today, her role extends across all divisions, supporting occupational therapists and physiotherapists through clinical education on various assistive technologies.
Many Australian therapists receive limited training in assistive technology during university, leaving them uncertain about prescribing standard and complex solutions. Uncle aims to bridge that gap, helping practitioners feel confident in their recommendations. She also hosts her company’s podcast “Redefining What’s Possible,“ which explores real-world applications of assistive technology and fosters ongoing learning.
Advancements and Challenges in Assistive Technology
Uncle has witnessed significant changes during her 20-year career. One of the most impactful was the rollout of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme in 2013. While the initiative offers individualized support for people with disabilities, it has introduced challenges, including limited supervision for new occupational therapist graduates hired by private companies.
“This lack of structured mentoring can leave early-career therapists without confidence in their role, especially regarding assistive technology,” she said. Uncle’s work as an educator helps bridge that gap by building knowledge, skills, and confidence.
Another notable change is the credentialing of assistive technology professionals. Historically, Australia has not required formal certification for ATPs, but Independent Living Specialists is leading the way in ensuring its ATPs receive credentialing through iNRRTS. Uncle hopes this marks the beginning of a national standard requiring all ATPs to be formally trained and credentialed.
“This is about achieving the best outcomes for the end user,” she said. “Ensuring that the professionals involved in recommending, prescribing, fitting, and monitoring equipment are properly trained is essential.”
Passion for Impactful Work
Uncle finds deep fulfillment in her work. She appreciates the positive feedback she receives from therapists who benefit from her training. “That affirmation is energizing,” she said. “I provide education, and they reward me with a positive response, saying the information was helpful.”
Her dedication extends to supporting therapists with complex individual cases where her expertise may guide the next steps in assistive technology recommendations.
One area of particular interest for Uncle is supported lying for people with mid-to-late-stage dementia. Research has shown the benefits of supported supine lying in providing comfort and preventing the effects of paratonia.
At a recent trial of a sleep system, Uncle and her colleagues worked with a 63-year-old woman with early-onset dementia. When they arrived, she was in bed, unresponsive, with labored breathing. After positioning her using the sleep system, she became alert, smiled, and her breathing slowed.
“That was a good day at work,” Uncle said. “Seeing the benefits so quickly was especially rewarding.”
Family, Community, and Advocacy
Uncle credits her son, Nathaniel, as her greatest influence, both personally and professionally. Born with Apert Syndrome, he has undergone 10 surgeries in his 11 years.
“Every day, he navigates challenges from his physical and intellectual disabilities. He looks different in a world where almost everybody wants to fit in. But he is resilient, joyful, amazing, and brave,” Uncle said.
Nathaniel has taught her about respecting individuals with disabilities and recognizing their humanity beyond their differences. “We all want to be loved, accepted, seen, and valued,” she said. “That truth fuels my desire to be person-centered in educating and discussing assistive technology.”
Her career has also been shaped by Lois Brown, who propelled her into the role of clinical educator and encouraged her growth in the field. “We are like-minded in wanting the best outcomes for the end users of assistive technology. I had a lot of fun presenting alongside her,” Uncle said.
Outside of work, family is Uncle’s top priority. She has three sons and a daughter, and their home is often lively and chaotic. When she finds free time, she enjoys painting, cooking, gardening, and running, especially on bush tracks in the Australian wilderness.
Advocacy Through Inclusion
Uncle is deeply involved in the Titans football club, where every player has a disability yet competes in a mainstream league against neurotypical teams.
“It’s a beautiful example of inclusivity,” she said. “The opposing teams adjust their game to allow the Titans to score and have a chance to kick the ball. They do it willingly, and it’s wonderful to watch.”
Advice for Aspiring Occupational Therapists
Uncle encourages those entering the field to remember the profound impact of their work. “You’ve chosen a wonderful career, fulfilling and rarely boring,” she said.
She advises new occupational therapists to focus on the difference they can make in clients’ lives. “At times, frustrations will arise, but overall, the work is incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Her final piece of advice
“Be inspired by the people accessing assistive technology. Show them respect. Speak directly to them, even if you’re unsure they will hear or understand you. Make them feel like it’s all about them—because it is.”
Sarah may be reached at sarah.uncle@ilsau.com.au.
Sarah Uncle, RRTS®, is the clinical educator for Independent Living Specialists in Sydney, Australia. She holds an occupational therapy degree from Sydney University and has extensive experience in the assistive technology industry, with a passion for pressure care. She has been an iNRRTS Registrant since 2023.