“Minding the Gap”
2026 Howard H. Steel Conference
Dec. 2: Precourse
Dec. 3-5: Conference
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace
Orlando, Florida
Submission Site is Now Open!
Submission Guidelines
Abstract Length: 250–300 words
Format: Background, Methods, Results, Conclusions
Submission Deadline: May 15
The Steel Assembly invites Researchers, Clinicians, Engineers, and Innovators to submit Course Proposals and/or abstracts for Oral and Poster presentations for our December 2026 meeting. This year’s theme, “Mind the Gap,” focuses on identifying, understanding, and bridging critical gaps in Science, Technology, and Clinical Practice.
Sessions will include:
- Free Papers
- Scientific Posters
- Point-Counterpoint
- Audience Engagement
- Consumer Participation
Examples of Gaps to Explore:
- Knowledge Gaps: Unanswered questions in neurorehabilitation, biomechanics and engineering.
- Clinical Gaps: Disparities across pediatrics and adult care and translation from research to practice.
- Data Gaps: Missing evidence for long-term efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
- Implementation Gaps: Challenges in scaling interventions from lab to clinic and home use.
- Technology Gaps: Limitations in current devices, interfaces, and stimulation techniques.
- Equity Gaps: Addressing socioeconomic and geographic barriers to advanced therapies.
Topics of Interest:
- Neuroplasticity and Recovery Mechanisms
- Robotics and Assistive Technologies
- Clinical Trials and Translational Research
- Health Equity and Access in Neurorehabilitation
- Emerging Technologies and AI in Rehabilitation
Join us in closing the gaps that limit progress and patient outcomes. Your work can help shape the future of care for children living with spinal cord injury!
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
Cristina L. Sadowsky, MD
Chair, Steel Assembly
It is my great pleasure to invite you to join us for Steel Assembly 2026, to be held in vibrant Orlando, Florida. The 2026 conference theme, “Minding the Gap” calls upon us to recognize and bridge the spaces – whether in knowledge, resources, access, or outcome – that affect the care of children and adolescents living with spinal cord-related dysfunctions.
The Steel Assembly has long been a gathering place for those dedicated to advancing care, research, and collaboration in pediatric spinal cord medicine. In 2026, we will once again unite a diverse community of healthcare professionals – physicians, nurses, therapists, psychologists, researchers, and all who share a commitment to improving the lives of our young patients.
Through engaging plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and case-based discussions, we will explore innovative strategies, share best practices, and develop actionable solutions to close the gaps that challenge our field. And of course, Orlando offers the perfect backdrop for both professional connection and a bit of fun.
Whether you are a seasoned expert or early in your career, your voice, your experience, and your passion are essential to the conversation. Together, we can create a stronger continuum of care and a brighter future for every child and adolescent we serve.
I look forward to welcoming you to Orlando and to an unforgettable Steel Assembly 2026.
2026 Steel Conference Program Committee:
- Rebecca Martin, OTR/L, OTD ((Program Chair))
- Randy Betz, MD
- Glenda Bosques, MD
- Kristy Hayes
- Linda Jones, PT, PhD
- Laura Krisa, PhD
- MJ Mulcahey, PhD, OTR/L
- Kathryn Noonan-Eaton, MSOT, OTR/L
- Cristina Sadowsky, MD
- Eimear Smith, MD
- Kathy Zebracki, PhD
Hotel Information:
1900 E. Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Hotel Reservation link will be available in late 2025!
Partner with STEEL!
Increase your visibility and strengthen relationships with leaders in Pediatric SCI. Industry support is key to the success of this conference and demonstrates your commitment to improving patient care. Read more about the many levels of sponsorship package.
E-mail: info@steelassembly.org
The Howard H. Steel Conference on Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury/Dysfunction is provided by the Steel Assembly, an affiliate of the American Spinal Injury Association.