Ama AI Launches Pilot with MAC Midwest
- Will Schneller
- Jan 7
- 2 min read
Ames, IA – Ama AI has launched a pilot with MAC Midwest to demonstrate how assistive artificial intelligence supports individuals with autism in practicing everyday life skills across home, school, and community settings.
The pilot brings together Ama AI’s personalized assistive technology and MAC Midwest’s transdisciplinary clinical expertise to explore how emerging tools might thoughtfully complement clinician-led care.
“This partnership grew out of shared conversations about continuity, dignity, and what it truly means to support independence beyond structured therapy time,” said Chris Bent, CEO of MAC Midwest. “We see this pilot as an opportunity to learn together, alongside families and clinicians, about how emerging tools might thoughtfully support real-world skill use.”
“For us, this work has always been about continuity and collaboration,” said Karri Haen Whitmer, Co-Founder and CEO of Ama AI. “Partnering with MAC Midwest allows us to explore this technology with a care model that values individualized planning, ethical implementation, and a truly transdisciplinary approach to care.” Karri's motivation to advance this effort is rooted in her personal story. “Ama began with my son, Ethan, who was diagnosed with autism. When we talk with other families, their number one desire is for their children to lead happy, independent lives. This pilot represents a key step towards helping us realize Ama’s vision.”
Insights from the pilot will guide future decisions about how AI-supported tools will be integrated into care pathways, and will demonstrate how Ama AI can scale within clinical organizations.
About Ama AI
Ama AI is an Ames, Iowa–based assistive technology company focused on supporting individuals with autism and cognitive differences by extending therapeutic strategies into everyday life. Designed to complement professional care, Ama AI emphasizes personalization, ethical and HIPPA-compliant use of AI, and continuity of support across environments. Ama AI has received support from partners including the USDA, the State of Iowa, nMotion, and the New Schools Venture Fund.
About MAC Midwest
MAC Midwest, based in Minnetonka, MN, provides compassionate, individualized care for children, adolescents, and families affected by autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. Through a transdisciplinary model of care, MAC Midwest offers diagnostic services, compassionate ABA therapy, speech and occupational therapy, psychotherapy, and family supports. The organization is committed to meeting individuals where they are and supporting meaningful progress across the lifespan.
Media Contact
Will Schneller
Head of Product and Marketing, Ama AI