O&P Rising

O&P Career Pathways Part 3: Academia Pathways

In this episode, guest host Alex Jensch—a master's of science in prosthetics and orthotics student at the University of Hartford (UHart), Connecticut—talks with Duffy Felmlee, CPO, FAAOP(D), professor at UHart, Academy treasurer, and co-chair of the Fabrication Science Society, for part three of the O&P Career Pathways series. Duffy reflects on his journey from clinical practice to academia, offering an inside look at the challenges, rewards, and unexpected joys of teaching in the O&P field. He shares practical insights on mentorship, time management, and leveraging technology to elevate learning. Alex and Duffy also discuss the importance of fostering meaningful connections with students and staying actively engaged in the profession.
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

O&P Career Pathways Part 2: Research Pathways

In this episode, guest host Julia Pines, certified orthotist and board-eligible prosthetist at OrthoPediatrics Specialty Bracing in Boston, sits down with Kiley Armstrong, MPO, CPO, research prosthetist-orthotist at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, for part two of the O&P Career Pathways series. Together, they explore the research pathway in orthotics and prosthetics—what it looks like, how to pursue it, and why it matters. Kiley reflects on her early exposure to the field, her foundation in biomedical engineering, and the moments that sparked her passion for research. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at the daily life of a research prosthetist-orthotist, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the work, the milestones that shape a research career, and the blend of curiosity and persistence it requires.
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

O&P Career Pathways Part 1: Clinical Pathways

In this episode, guest host Avery-Claire Littleton, resident prosthetist/orthotist at ForMotion Clinic in Alabama, kicks off a four-part O&P Career Pathways series with Trey Cimorelli, CPO at Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics in New Hampshire. Trey shares his journey from shadowing a local prosthetist to becoming a certified clinician, including his education at the University of Washington and dual residencies in orthotics and prosthetics. He offers an inside look at the daily responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of clinical practice—highlighting the value of patient relationships, lifelong learning, and adaptability. Trey also discusses his interest in incorporating video-based gait analysis, the role of active listening, and why problem-solving skills are essential in this evolving profession.
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Inside the O&P Diagnostic Toolbox

In this episode, guest host Hannah Perkins, resident prosthetist/orthotist at Macy O&P in Guilford, Connecticut, talks with Stephen Charry, CPO, FAAOP, assistant professor at the University of Hartford, about building and using a diagnostic toolbox in the O&P profession. Together, they explore essential tools such as patient history, physical assessments, and outcome measures, and why this toolbox should always evolve. The conversation also dives into the value of mentorship, hands-on learning, and lifelong education, while addressing common challenges clinicians face. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on collaboration, reflection, and strategies to deliver truly personalized, high-quality care.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

New O&P Residency Standards

In this episode, guest host Anna Cook, a board-eligible prosthetist orthotist at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, sits down with Chris Robinson, MS, MBA, CPO, ATC, FAAOP(D), clinical resource director for the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). Together, they explore the newly introduced competency-based residency standards and what they mean for the future of O&P education. Robinson outlines the structure of the new model, its alignment with modern clinical practice, and the flexible implementation timeline. Key updates include the integration of orthotic and prosthetic disciplines, a stronger focus on professional competencies such as communication and clinical decision-making, and pathways for early adoption. The episode also highlights benefits for research track residents and reduced post-certification requirements for mentors and residency directors.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Shared Decision Making and Patient Empowerment in O&P

In this episode, guest host Molly Winget, CO and prosthetic resident at Boston O&P, talks with Chelsey Anderson, Pediatrics Research Fellow at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, about the critical role of shared decision making in prosthetic and orthotic care. They explore the difference between simply offering choices and genuinely involving patients and families in the care process. The conversation also highlights the value of evidence-based practice and offers practical tips for new clinicians to incorporate shared decision making, even when facing time pressures or limited experience.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Empowering the Limb Loss Community

In this episode, guest host Caitlin Peters, CPO, a board-certified prosthetist and orthotic resident at Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, SC, sits down with Shree Thaker, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Amputee Coalition. Together, they explore the Coalition’s powerful evolution—from a grassroots peer support group to a national organization offering robust resources like virtual support groups, youth camps, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives such as So Everybody Can Move. Shree shares how the organization empowers individuals with limb loss and limb difference through free, accessible programming and how professionals and community members can get involved in advancing the Coalition’s mission.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Mentorship and Networking in O&P

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO, of Bremer Prosthetic Design, chats with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. Together, they explore the vital role of mentorship, personal branding, and networking in shaping successful careers in the O&P profession. Adrienne shares personal stories and practical advice for emerging professionals, emphasizing the value of authentic connections, empathy, and the give-and-take of mentor-mentee relationships. The conversation also delves into how professionals can balance introverted and extroverted traits to communicate effectively and thrive in a people-focused profession.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Championing Change in O&P

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Kaleigh Neely, CPO, chats with Sheryl Sachs, CPO, of Dankmeyer Prosthetics & Orthotics. They explore the critical role of advocacy in the O&P profession, Sheryl’s journey into policy work, and why young professionals should get involved. The conversation also highlights the importance of research, collaboration, and legislative efforts to shape the future of the profession.
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

Professional Growth in O&P

In this episode, guest host Denise Hull, CPO, a newly certified prosthetist/orthotist at Wheeler O&P, chats with Gerry Stark, PhD, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), director of clinical and technical operations for BionIT Labs and president-elect of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. With over 30 years in the field, Gerry shares invaluable insights on mentorship, professional development, and navigating a purposeful career in O&P. He reflects on the evolution of the Academy, the power of networking, and the importance of embracing innovation. The conversation also explores how early-career clinicians can engage with professional societies, adopt emerging technologies, and set meaningful career goals to thrive in the profession. 
 
O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.