We are a non-profit organization formed in 1990 to meet the needs of the accessibility equipment manufacturers, distributors and end users.
AEMA
In 2005 the association modified its vision and its OFFICIAL BYLAWS in order to create an “all industry members association”. Any person, firm or corporation with an interest in the private residence elevator and accessibility equipment industry may apply for membership in the association and if approved, become a full voting member with equal input into the activities of the association.
The following excerpt is direct from the bylaws of the association:
Article II – Scope and Definition
a. Scope
AEMA is an association of persons and entities with an interest in the “Private Residence Elevator and Accessibility Equipment” industry.
b. Definition
The term “Private Residence Elevator and Accessibility Equipment. industry includes the design, manufacturing, installation, servicing and maintenance of vertical, inclined and horizontal conveying systems which are used primarily to provide access and/or egress for persons in public and private residence environments, commonly known as platform lifts, stair-lifts, wheelchair lifts, access elevators, private residence elevators, home elevators, stairway chairlifts, limited use/limited application elevators, LULA elevators and similar products. (See Article V-Section 1 for membership qualifications).
Our Vision for Your Future
To grow and develop the accessibility equipment industry by establishing and participating in programs that promote the awareness, understanding and use of accessibility equipment
To encourage accessibility equipment manufacturers to interact collectively with building owners, code writers, regulatory authorities, accessibility contractors, government and others associated with accessibility equipment
To contribute to the development, standardization and proliferation of safety codes and standards that affect the design, installation and use of accessibility equipment
To promote the common business interests of the accessibility and elevator industries
To serve as a forum for the standardization of accessibility equipment design aspects that impact user safety, security and ease of use, including equipment operation, signage and terminology.
President’s Message January 2025 – Shannon Chasteen
Dear AEMA Members,
I am sincerely grateful and deeply honored to serve as the President of AEMA for a second year in 2025. Your trust and support over the past five years, first as a board member and now as your President, have been invaluable. I remain committed to continuing the vital work of representing and advocating for our industry.
Reflecting on 2024
As I look back on the past year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mark Townsend and Bill Page for their dedicated service as board members. While they have stepped down from their positions, I am thrilled that both will remain actively involved with AEMA. I also want to commend the outstanding contributions of our 2024 board members: Don Zimmerman, Jessie Johnston, Adam Bey, Frank Wasilewski, and Kevin Rusin. Your dedication to AEMA’s mission has been exceptional, and your efforts are deeply appreciated.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to welcome our newest board members, Christopher Baker (Savaria) and Joe Newstrom (Arrow Lift). Their expertise and leadership will undoubtedly strengthen AEMA and our industry as we tackle the challenges and opportunities of 2025.
A Victory for Our Industry
A major highlight of 2024 was the successful effort to veto CA AB871, a significant win for our industry. This victory would not have been possible without the exceptional leadership and tireless dedication of Mark Townsend and Kevin Rusin. Their countless volunteer hours and unwavering commitment were instrumental in this achievement.
I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the AEMA Lobby CA AB871 fund. Through your generosity, we raised $126,000 to engage a skilled lobbyist, every dollar of which came from donations, not membership funds. This accomplishment underscores the incredible unity and support of our members.
As we prepare for future challenges, I encourage you to continue contributing to the AEMA Lobbyist fund. Your support enables us to remain a strong, collective voice for our industry. Together, we’ve demonstrated that we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
Membership Growth and Engagement
This year, AEMA has seen a surge in new memberships, as well as increased engagement from existing members. Many of you have reached out for assistance, and this collaboration highlights the dedication within our community to protect and shape the future of our industry. We encourage everyone to continue relying on AEMA for support and guidance, particularly as we navigate challenges across various regions.
Over the years, AEMA has remained steadfast in its focus on expanding membership and delivering tangible value to our members. Whether through tools like the TrackBill platform, our ongoing lobbying efforts, or our presence in code committees, we are unwavering in our commitment to representing your interests. These voluntary efforts play a critical role in shaping the future of our industry, and their importance cannot be overstated.
Looking Forward to 2025
As we enter the new year, challenges remain, but so does our resolve. The fight against harmful legislation continues, and the strength and unity of our members will be key to our success. Contributions to the fund remain essential in sustaining our lobbying efforts and ensuring the protection of our industry.
As your President, I am dedicated to fostering growth and encouraging active involvement within our organization. Together, let us continue to advocate for our members, grow our community, and champion the values that make AEMA an indispensable voice in our industry.
Thank you for your unwavering support and engagement, it is the foundation of everything we achieve.
With gratitude and commitment,
Shannon Chasteen
President, AEMA 2025
