Ray Abel Email & Phone Number

Pittsburgh, Pa

As the CEO, my primary responsibilities encompass a diverse range of critical functions, including hiring top-tier talent, spearheading fundraising initiatives, and managing the intellectual property aspects of our products. Our first product, Xogo, revolutionizes how users interact with technology. This platform enables the integration and connection of many devices, transcending conventional limitations. With Xogo's compatibility with USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, and 3.5mm jack inputs, users can seamlessly connect devices like cable boxes, smart home gadgets, video game consoles, and more. This universal compatibility ensures that technology adapts to the user's lifestyle and needs, irrespective of their technical proficiency or disabilities. Xogo is a testament to our commitment to making technology accessible and user-friendly for everyone.Our second venture is a cutting-edge VR rehabilitation platform designed to work for people with disabilities. This platform is not just about immersive experiences; it's about inclusivity and adaptability. We focus on developing an API that supports many user devices, ensuring seamless integration. Our approach to accessibility in the app is modular, catering to varied needs and preferences, thereby setting a new standard in VR rehabilitation technology.

As the Principal Investigator for SBIR grant number 2136794, I've led this project for Bansen Labs, funded by a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation. Our initiative focuses on developing an innovative hardware and software platform aimed at empowering people with disabilities (PwD) to control a variety of consumer products, such as game consoles and smart home devices. This cutting-edge technology, designed to be user-friendly and efficient, is set to transform accessibility in technology, fostering independence and greater engagement in various aspects of life for PwD. This project aligns with our commitment to creating impactful, inclusive solutions in the rapidly growing assistive technology industry.

Pittsburgh, Pa

The Common Company has a history of founding and selling various enterprises. Our journey began with a website dedicated to crafting engaging content with a positive and healthy outlook. Following this, we ventured into large-scale events with The City 5K, a significant race we launched through a collaborative effort with Mark Cuban, a venture that gained notable recognition during our appearance on the ABC show Shark Tank. Currently, our focus is on 'Research the News,' a podcast aimed at delving into current affairs. Additionally, we're excited about a few other projects in the pipeline and look forward to making those announcements soon.

Pittsburgh, Pa

As the Director of the annual Global Impact event, I successfully orchestrated a nationally recognized gathering that brought together students from across the USA. Additionally, I spearheaded the Urban Impact Experience. This annual initiative empowered youth through service and education about underserved urban communities. My role extended to grant writing, fostering relationships, and developing donor programs with our funding organizations. My responsibilities also included managing various technology projects, encompassing video production, database management, hardware and software procurement, and devising effective technology strategies.

Pittsburgh, Pa

Founded an inner-city community organization, where I recruited and managed a team of dedicated staff and volunteers. My responsibilities also included forming the mission and vision statements for this inner-city non-profit. In this role, I partnered with three local colleges, a mental health organization, an architectural firm, several community groups, and a dance studio to provide programming and support. I also organized a free concert open to the community, featuring multiple bands. Further, I developed an 84-page response to the City of Pittsburgh's request for proposal and created the organizational website.

Monroeville, Pa

Organized events and managed a staff of fundraisers dedicated to finding a cure for muscular dystrophy. My responsibilities included planning fundraising events that not only met but exceeded our annual budget. I organized and directed MDA Summer Camps for children living with neuromuscular diseases and built relationships with sponsors and families to promote a positive image of MDA. Additionally, I hired and trained a staff of professional fundraisers. Under my leadership, we achieved significant fundraising growth, increasing from $170,000 to over $340,000 in one fiscal year through program improvements at MDA.

Monroeville, Pa

Responsible for achieving $1,000,000 in annual area sales. My duties included conducting hiring interviews for potential employees, responding to customer inquiries, and resolving issues. Additionally, I created schedules and maintained the staff budget. I also served as the district sales trainer for the Pittsburgh market.

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Computer Science

Bachelor Of Business Administration - Bba, Economics