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Amauri Passos: Meet the First ANP Certification Holder

We celebrate Amauri Passos and his remarkable achievement in the AV industry. Join us for an exclusive interview with Amauri who has made history as the first person to attain the Audiovisual Networking Professional (ANP) certification. Joined by Dave Labuskes, CEO of AVIXA, Amauri shares his insights on the significance of this credential, its impact on his career, and why it represents a critical milestone for AV professionals globally.

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Microsoft Express Install for MTRs

Small meeting rooms shouldn’t be the hardest to deploy. In this video, learn how Velocity by FORTÉ simplifies Microsoft Teams Room deployments with Express Install solutions designed for speed, consistency, and scalability. From pre-configured components to minimal setup requirements, Velocity helps organizations standardize meeting spaces faster -- without construction delays or complexity. Discover how to reduce friction, streamline deployments, and create reliable collaboration experiences across every room. Learn more at: https://www.ourforte.com/services/velocity

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Can AI Help You Pass the CTS Exam? Introducing AVIXA’s Study Buddy | Practically AI, Ep. 1

In the premiere episode of Practically AI, host Mark Metzger sits down with Zachary Fisher, AVIXA’s Director of Learning, to reveal the newly developed CTS Chat Buddy—an AI‑powered study assistant designed to support CTS candidates and AV professionals alike. This episode dives into how AVIXA trained this custom AI model using vetted educational content, why it’s a trusted companion for exam prep, and how it personalizes study plans, delivers sample questions, and supports ongoing learning in the field. Mark and Zach explore the broader implications of artificial intelligence in the audiovisual industry, discuss how AI can complement instructors rather than replace them, and share insights into what’s coming next as the tool evolves beyond its beta phase. Pursuing your CTS certification or curious about practical AI applications in Pro AV? This conversation offers a clear look at how AVIXA is shaping the future of learning.

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Kaleidescape Takes Luxury Residential Technology to New Heights

Home automation and luxury residential technology are reaching new heights of sophistication. Previously centered on isolated home theater rooms, this industry now integrates smart features and high-quality audiovisual setups throughout entire homes. In a market once dominated by high-cost, integrator-managed installations, shifts toward accessible DIY technology and e-commerce have introduced new options for consumers. According to industry experts, there’s a growing demand for multi-purpose, connected spaces where media, lighting, and environmental controls all work in harmony. What does this mean for those seeking both luxury and flexibility in home technology? What does it take to build a truly integrated, high-performance home environment in a rapidly shifting market? On this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas welcomes Tayloe Stansbury, CEO of Kaleidescape, a leader in luxury audiovisual technology. Together, they explore the expanding boundaries of luxury residential technology, from evolving consumer expectations to the critical balance between DIY solutions and professional integrators. Highlights from the conversation: Redefining Luxury Spaces: Shifts in home theater setups from dedicated, isolated spaces to multi-purpose, family-friendly entertainment rooms. Integration Challenges: The balance between traditional professional integrator roles and the increasing consumer interest in DIY setups. Future of Distribution: The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels in the luxury residential space, despite historical reliance on dealer channels. Tayloe Stansbury is the chairman and CEO of Kaleidescape, known for pioneering high-end, lossless audiovisual technology. With a background spanning tech leadership and engineering, Stansbury has guided Kaleidescape’s expansion to provide high-quality video and audio solutions that elevate the home entertainment experience.

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Rising Security Threats Drive Integration of Digital and Physical Systems for Faster Response

The rising complexity of physical and cybersecurity challenges has made integrating digital and physical security systems a priority for many organizations. Threats to physical and digital security have both increased significantly. Studies show that nearly 70% of organizations are now exploring combining IT and physical security to improve protection and enable faster response times. How can companies close the digital and physical security gap to create comprehensive, effective security frameworks? Today’s episode of Pro AV Today features host Ben Thomas in conversation with Chris Utah, COO and co-founder of Regroup Mass Notification. Chris shares his expertise on the evolution of integrated security solutions, highlighting the importance of connecting digital systems with physical security measures across sectors, including education and healthcare. Key Points: New Security Collaboration Needs: The growing trend of aligning IT, security, HR, and operations professionals to tackle emerging security demands. Balancing Integration with Risk Management: Insights into managing the vulnerabilities of interconnected systems while leveraging the strengths of real-time data exchange. Industry-Specific Use Cases: How sectors like corporate, healthcare, and education adopt integrated security for essential business and safety purposes. Chris Utah is a sales leadership expert with deep expertise in mass notification and security integration across diverse industries. Known for building high-performing sales teams, he has optimized sales strategies in early-stage, venture-backed startups and managed significant growth in companies like AppAssure Software (acquired by Dell) and Allegiance Capital. His combined experience in market expansion, security solutions, and sales optimization allows him to create adaptable, comprehensive security frameworks to meet modern organizational demands.

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School Safety Cannot Wait; New Technology is Essential for Today's Threats

School security has become an urgent topic nationwide, with increasing attention on protecting students from various threats, including school shootings, bullying, and incidents beyond school hours. Amid these challenges, the technology sector is driving innovative safety solutions tailored for educational settings, aiming to redefine and enhance campus security from K-12 through higher education. How can schools leverage new tools to build a robust, sustainable approach to security? In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas welcomes David Rogers, CMO of Raptor Technologies, to discuss the latest in school safety technology, from panic alert systems to AI-powered threat detection. David shares insights on current safety issues and how technology can bridge gaps in traditional security models, addressing core questions around security strategy and parent engagement. Main Points of Discussion: Real Threats Schools Face: Rogers outlines the variety of security threats, from school shootings and bullying to incidents that happen outside school hours. Technology’s Role: With innovations like AI gun detection, panic alerts, and mobile app communication, technology is expanding the ability to respond to diverse emergencies. Parental and Community Involvement: Emphasizing the role of parents and community in school safety, Rogers shares ways technology can improve communication and intervention. David Rogers, CMO of Raptor Technologies, brings over two decades of expertise in high-tech marketing, specializing in SaaS, security, and communications strategy. He has held executive roles at notable companies, including Intel, Motorola, and CoreLogic, where he led product management, go-to-market strategies, and digital marketing for diverse industry segments. Known for his leadership in product positioning and demand generation, Rogers has a proven track record of fostering innovation and growth across both large tech companies and private equity-backed firms.

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Tech-Infused Workplace Design: The Key to Enhancing Appeal and Flexibility in the Hybrid Era

Workplace dynamics have shifted dramatically, with hybrid models and remote work becoming permanent fixtures for many organizations. As a result, companies are grappling with new workplace design approaches that incorporate technology-rich solutions and human-centric elements. A recent study by Cisco found that 98% of meetings now include at least one remote participant, underscoring the need for spaces that support seamless digital collaboration while keeping employees engaged. But how can companies create environments that integrate advanced tech without losing the warmth and connection that physical spaces provide? What does the future of workplace design look like, and how can technology improve both in-office and remote work experiences? In this episode of ProAV Today, host Ben Thomas sits down with Kay Sargent, Senior Principal - Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors at HOK, to explore these questions. Together, they discuss the current trends in workplace design, the role of technology in modern office spaces, and the importance of balancing innovation with human needs. Key topics covered in the episode include: Hybrid Office Designs: The shift in office layouts to accommodate both remote and in-person workers. Tech-Human Balance : How companies can avoid sterile, overly-automated environments by integrating technology in a way that feels intuitive and personal. Designing for Equity: Creating workspaces that offer equitable experiences for remote and in-office employees. Kay Sargent is a trailblazer in the world of architecture and AV design, with a focus on creating tech-forward yet human-centered work environments. With years of experience in the industry, Kate offers a comprehensive perspective on the future of office spaces in the digital age.

Videos

Navigating Career Paths and the Future of Pro AV with Insights from 40 Under 40 Awardee Andie Mace

The conversation around recruitment, career paths and retention in Pro AV is gaining attention, particularly as the industry navigates the shift toward hybrid work models and the influx of new talent. Around 70% of companies are either implementing or planning to implement hybrid work models, and businesses in the AV space are rethinking how they attract and retain the next generation of leaders. As more industries recognize the role of Pro AV technology in supporting remote and hybrid environments, this shift is becoming increasingly important. But how do young professionals carve out a place in an industry steeped in tradition? How can organizations bridge the gap between evolving tech and the needs of the modern workforce? In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas talks with Andie Mace, Andie Mace, the Product Marketing Manager at HP, and a recent recipient of the Commercial Integrator's 40 Under 40 Award. Their conversation covers career paths in Pro AV, the role of technology in enhancing workplace well-being, and the future of marketing in a digital-first world. Key Takeaways from the Episode: Marketing Transformation in Pro AV: Andie explains the shift from traditional white papers to fast, impactful social media content, highlighting the growing importance of thought leadership and employee satisfaction. The Human Impact of Technology: She stresses that while technology is vital, its real power lies in how it fosters human connections and boosts productivity, especially in hybrid work environments. Navigating Resistance: Andie reflects on the challenge of discussing emotional well-being in the workplace and how it impacts productivity, despite some pushback within the industry. Andie Mace, Product Marketing Manager at HP, has emerged as a thought leader in the Pro AV industry, contributing fresh ideas since joining after HP's acquisition of Poly. Her passion for technology and focus on human-centered solutions recently earned her a spot on the Commercial Integrator 40 Under 40 list, recognizing her as a rising star in the field.

Videos

Demystifying Enterprise Energy Sources, Use Cases, and Applications

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the demand for enterprise energy sources has reached unprecedented levels. This surge is driven by data centers, AI capabilities, and ESG requirements, placing immense strain on current power systems. The challenge of meeting this demand is crucial for maintaining infrastructure stability and supporting technological growth. How are enterprises managing and optimizing their power usage to meet these increasing demands? What innovative solutions are being implemented to balance sustainability goals with operational efficiency? In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas sits down with Aron Bowman, President of ELM Microgrid & Solar, to explore the dynamic world of enterprise energy sources, their applications, and the technologies driving these changes. Key Points of Discussion: - Integration of Renewable Energy: Aron explains how enterprises are incorporating renewable energy sources like solar and wind into their power grids, supplemented by intelligent control systems to manage energy storage and usage efficiently. - Microgrid Technology: The role of microgrids in providing reliable, on-site power generation and storage, ensuring seamless transitions and optimal energy usage for data centers, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure. - Future of Energy Management: The importance of blending various energy sources, including traditional fossil fuels and renewables, to achieve the best solutions for enterprise needs while meeting ESG goals. Aron Bowman, President of ELM Microgrid & Solar, has a distinguished background in energy solutions and technology integration. With extensive experience in developing and implementing microgrid systems, Aron has been at the forefront of driving innovation in energy management for enterprises. His expertise spans various sectors, ensuring that organizations can meet their power demands sustainably and efficiently.

Videos

Reelwildbytes17

Catch a quick, engaging installment of Reelwildbytes in under a minute. Reelwildbytes17 delivers a fast-paced AVIXA TV video designed for viewers looking for a brief and intriguing watch.