RALEIGH, N.C. – The Museum of Natural Sciences is hosting a virtual STEAM showcase for students with disabilities.

Ed Summers is the event collaborator. He is a visually impaired software developer and the director of accessibility with SAS, a data analytics company in the Triangle.

“When I was kid, I was diagnosed with a degenerative retinal disease and the doctors told me I was going to lose my vision. They didn't know when, but there was nothing they could do,” Summers said.

Summers has Retinitis Pigmentosa, a disease that slowly causes blindness over time. He's had his service dog, Chewbacca, since 2015 to help him navigate everyday life.

“I do the strategic part, he does the tactical part,” Summers said when talking about his dog. “So I know where we are going and what direction we should go and he handles things like getting around stuff.”

Summers says he didn't have many role models with disabilities, so he hopes to be that for students.

“I think the biggest barrier can exist in our heads,” Summers said. “The important thing about role models is to see people that look like us, who have the same kinds of disabilities, doing the kinds of things that we want to do. And that becomes an existence of proof that we can follow.”

The virtual STEAM showcase is Tuesday, October 19. The showcase will have breakout sessions where participants can directly engage with the speakers. Students can register for the free event online.