Since joining Prentke Romich Co. in 1999 as its president, David L. Moffatt has embraced
PRC’s mission of making life easier for people with speech disabilities.
PRC manufactures and develops augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
devices and other technology for the speech-impaired.
Moffatt faced several challenges when he joined the company. One of the biggest challenges
was helping medical professionals understand the potential impact of AAC devices on the lives
of patients.
To overcome this challenge, Moffatt raised product awareness by expanding the company’s
outreach program to speech language pathologists and other medical professionals who work
with speech-impaired clients.
As part of the outreach program, Moffatt has worked to change the outdated perception that
the company’s software is complex or difficult to learn. To combat this perception, Moffatt
developed a free on-site training program for speech language pathologists.
The company was in financial trouble when Moffatt joined as president in 1999. He turned
the company around by pushing for more employee input. His “open-book” management
style fostered a more collaborative environment at PRC, which improved innovation by
encouraging employees to be more open to sharing their ideas.
Moffatt says that if implemented properly PRC’s products are life-changing for the speech-impaired. He believes that making the right choice for the customer will produce the best long-term results for PRC, as well.
In 2006, PRC celebrated its 40th anniversary, and as a way to give back to the community,
Moffatt created the “40 for 40” program to donate 40 AAC devices to individuals who needed
but couldn’t afford them. Moffatt inspired the entire PRC team and vendors to support the project, and invited speech language pathologists to nominate clients. Under Moffatt’s direction,
the company donated 40 devices (more than $350,000) to 40 deserving individuals.
HOW TO REACH: Prentke Romich Co., www.prentrom.com or (800) 262-1984
