Organizational Structure

Organizational Structure

Organizational structures exist across healthcare systems, community organizations, academic institutions, and professional practice settings. In this module, we will specifically explore leadership structures within global, national, and state occupational therapy associations and examine how practitioners can engage in advocacy, volunteerism, networking, and leadership development throughout their careers.

World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT)
The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) is governed through an international leadership structure designed to support collaboration, advocacy, and strategic direction across member countries worldwide. WFOT leadership includes a General Assembly of member delegates and a Board of Directors responsible for areas such as education, practice, research, finance, workforce development, and global advocacy. WFOT works closely with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to advance occupational therapy practice, education, and access to services globally.

Key areas of WFOT governance include:

  • Strategic planning and organizational leadership
  • Global advocacy and policy development Workforce development initiatives
  • Education standards and professional competency
  • Collaboration with international health organizations
  • Leadership development and member engagement
  • WFOT Governance Structure

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
AOTA uses a national governance structure designed to support professional standards, advocacy, education, and strategic leadership for occupational therapy practitioners across the United States. AOTA leadership includes a Board of Directors, Representative Assembly, commissions, councils, committees, and volunteer leadership groups that guide policy development, governance, ethics, education, practice, and member engagement. Leadership opportunities exist through elected, appointed, and volunteer roles across multiple areas of the organization.

Key areas of AOTA governance include:

Nevada Occupational Therapy Association (NVOTA)
NVOTA operates through a state-level leadership structure focused on advocacy, professional development, networking, education, and advancing occupational therapy practice within Nevada. State association leadership opportunities may include board service, committees, task forces, conference planning, special interest sections, mentorship initiatives, advocacy efforts, and community engagement. NVOTA leadership works collaboratively with practitioners, students, educators, healthcare partners, and national organizations to strengthen the profession and support the occupational therapy workforce across the state.

Key areas of NVOTA leadership include:

  • State advocacy and legislative engagement
  • Professional development and continuing education
  • Leadership development and mentorship
  • Networking and community-building
  • Conference and event planning
  • Collaboration with AOTA and national OT initiatives
  • Student and emerging leader engagement
  • Note: NVOTA’s updated organizational structure is currently in development.
  • Nevada Occupational Therapy Association (NVOTA)

Pre-PIP Workshop Activity: Exploring the OT Leaders & Legacies Society (OTLLS)

In preparation for our May Pioneers in Practice workshop (on 5/20 @ 6 pm PT), participants will explore the Occupational Therapy Leaders & Legacies Society (OTLLS) to better understand leadership pathways, mentorship, professional stewardship, and the preservation of occupational therapy history and legacy.

OTLLS is a national organization of occupational therapy leaders committed to advancing the profession through mentorship, advocacy, leadership development, historical preservation, scholarship, and community engagement.

Activity Instructions

  1. Visit the OTLLS website:
  2. Explore the following sections:
    • Membership
    • Governance
    • Current Projects and Initiatives
    • Mentorship Opportunities
    • History Preservation Efforts
    • Leadership and Service Activities
  3. Review at least one leadership story, initiative, or historical preservation project that resonates with you.
  4. Come prepared to discuss:
    • What surprised or interested you most about OTLLS?
    • How does OTLLS contribute to sustaining leadership within occupational therapy?
    • What leadership qualities, values, or contributions stood out to you?
    • How might organizations like OTLLS support your own professional growth and leadership development?
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