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 2026 – Kevin Rusin
Dear AEMA Members,
It is with gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I write to you today as President of AEMA. I am honored to have been elected to the board two years ago and truly appreciate the support our membership has shown. I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me and for the opportunity to lead our organization.
As we kick off 2026, we are excited to welcome our two newest board members, Tony Aitkin (Fox Valley Elevator) and Chris Harris (A+ Elevators and Lifts). Thank you as well to our returning board members, Chris Baker and Joe Newstrom, for your continued service, along with our Secretary, Jessie Johnston, and Treasurer, Don Zimmerman. A special thank you goes to Adam Bey and Frank Wasilewski for their years of dedication on the board and for continuing to volunteer their time and expertise. I would also like to recognize Bill Page and Mark Townsend, whose ongoing contributions to the board are invaluable. Finally, thank you to Shannon Chasteen for his many years of service on the board and for fearlessly leading our organization as President over the past two years and now serving as Vice President. Thank you all for your time, passion, and commitment to our industry.
Our industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of these changes requires time, effort, and engagement. As a volunteer-driven organization, it is critical that we understand what is happening—and changing—in your local marketplaces. I encourage you to stay informed, review the Legislative Alerts Jessie sends out, and pay close attention to issues impacting your specific market.
The AEMA Bylaws allow the board to form the following committees:
• Codes, Standards & Safety
• Communications & Public Relations
• Education & Technical
• Membership
• Future Directions
Does one of these committees speak to you? Are you interested in getting involved? Please email us and let us know. The strength of our association has always come from its members and the people who step forward to contribute.
In 2026, I look forward to listening closely, working collaboratively, and advancing the priorities we have set together. Our goal is for AEMA to be a proactive organization—one that is actively engaged in legislative efforts, safety initiatives, and training opportunities for the benefit of our customers, our industry, and our members.
With gratitude,
Kevin Rusin
President, AEMA 2026
