The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 1

The Complete AV Professional

Development Guide
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 2

The Complete AV Professional

Development Guide

The work of AV professionals is embedded in almost every industry. If you love

to constantly learn new things, are always feeding your inner tech geek, and
like hands-on work that makes a difference for your clients, AV might be the
right career path for you.
There are all kinds of jobs in the AV sector and, in such an innovative industry,
new jobs are created every day. According to AVIXA’s 2017 AV Industry
Outlook and Trends Analysis, the AV industry is growing and expected to
exceed $200 billion by 2020. Now is the perfect time to find your niche in the
AV world.
A career in the AV industry can begin in various ways. AV professionals study
everything from engineering to media and design to communications, but there
are specific industry-recognized credentials you will need before you start your
job search. In this guide, we will look at what it takes to gain the certifications
you need, what an AV career path looks like, and how you can use additional
training to stand out from the crowd.

While a career in AV can take you in many different directions,

most AV professionals find themselves falling into a few main
categories. We will be highlighting the three most common
industry areas:

﴿ AV Installation Technician
﴿ Live Events Professional
﴿ AV Programmer
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 3

AV Installation Technician
An AV installation technician is on the frontlines of every broadcast equipment, recording devices, sound systems,
AV project. Generally, people entering the field begin their mixers, speakers, projectors, video screens, interactive
careers as installation technicians or installation engineers. displays, video walls, digital signage, video conferencing
They specialize in systems integrations for both residential systems, lighting, and more. Whether these installations are
and commercial markets—they bring together component needed at a large organization or at a home in the suburbs,
subsystems into a whole and ensure those subsystems they require an AV professional’s involvement.
function together.
During installation, an AV technician’s duties often include
Technicians can have varying job duties depending on the activities such as pulling and terminating cable, mounting
employer and project, but they are commonly responsible equipment, configuring hardware via software and physical
for the installation, setup, and maintenance of electronic adjusters, testing connectivity, rack building and cable
equipment. In some cases, when necessary, they may also management, digital signage integration, and bench testing
operate equipment as well. and repair.
To begin working in this field, some positions only require Commercial jobs range from a couple days to a few weeks
a high school diploma, but most AV companies will favour to several months. AV technicians typically work within a
candidates with additional certifications, post-secondary team and, like in any team, they are responsible for certain
education, and relevant work experience. tasks depending on their skills and the tasks delegated to
them by the project manager. In the residential sector, jobs
A Day in the Life are typically smaller in size and scope and may only last a
couple of days to a few weeks. Typically, residential jobs
can be managed with two technicians but, depending on
AV technicians can work in a huge range of sectors, both the size and scope, they may be completed individually or
in the commercial space and residential space. In today’s with a larger team.
interconnected world, almost every company needs
an AV professional to set up, operate, and maintain its While a high school diploma may be the only requirement
audio and video systems. During a typical engagement, a in a job posting, to stand out and show your skills, there
technician or AV engineer will be responsible for installing are some crucial industry certifications and manufacturer
and configuring equipment, including sound and video training every installation tech should have.

Types of Projects Installation Technicians May Find Themselves Working On

TYPICAL COMMERCIAL PROJECTS TYPICAL RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

﴿ Corporate Boardroom ﴿ Complex Home Automation
﴿ Video Conferencing Room ﴿ Home Theatre Installation
﴿ Retail Digital Signage ﴿ Entertainment Centre
﴿ Mission Control Rooms ﴿ Security Systems
﴿ Reception Video Walls
﴿ Government Council Chambers
﴿ K-12 & Higher Education Classrooms
﴿ House of Worship
﴿ Broadcast Studio
 The
The Complete
Complete AV
AV Professional
Professional Development
Development Guide
Guide 44

Commercial Installation
Certifications

1. AVIXA
If you are interested in entering the world of commercial AV
installation, you have most certainly already heard of AVIXA.
Previously known as InfoComm International, AVIXA is
the trade association that represents the audiovisual industry
worldwide.
AVIXA has made it simple to gain certifications while continuing
to work. They offer online courses that are flexible to the varying
schedules of the industry and allow you to take courses on your
own or by attending classes either virtually or in person. More
traditional classroom lessons are also available in 3-day chunks
for hands-on learning with an instructor present. AVIXA has
created these training pathways to help AV professionals chart
their own career paths on their own schedules.

Certified Technology Specialist

(CTS) Credential
Recognized worldwide as the leading AV professional credential,
the Certified Technology Specialist™ (CTS®) program is the
first step to a successful AV career. Run by AVIXA for over
30 years, the CTS program is ANSI accredited and shows
employers you want to be one of the best in your field. No
matter where your career takes you, your CTS certification stays
with you. It is evidence of your proficiency and credibility and
gives you more value as an AV professional.
You can be certified as a general CTS or take the recently
developed specialized programs focused in design (CTS-D) and
installation (CTS-I). If you have been working in the industry for
many years, you may be able to take the exam right away. But
most people take AVIXA microcredential courses or training to
gain confidence and experience before taking the CTS exam.
By completing the CTS course, you will boost your credibility
not only with your employers but also with your co-workers
and clients. This standardized course makes industry standards
very clear and allows you to feel confident and secure you are
up to date on the newest industry practices. A CTS certification
must be renewed every three years by completing continuing
education during that three-year period and recommitting to the
CTS Code of Ethics and Conduct.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 5

The Path to Your CTS Certification

Microcredentials
AVIXA offers three digital badges, or microcredentials, which show you have experience in
specific categories. Courses in pulling cable, terminating cable, and mounting equipment are
used to walk students through industry practice and verify their skills.
As someone new to the AV industry, these microcredentials allow you to signal to hiring
managers that you have the foundational installation skills to do the job. These courses
involve proven hands-on experience with approximately four hours of class in
order to complete the course.

AV Technologist Certificate
Seen as a stepping stone to the CTS credential, the AV Technologist certificate is a way for
those new to the industry to prove their knowledge. Free for AVIXA members,
the AV Technologist certificate is offered after taking the Essentials of AV Technology online
course. This certificate is a great way to gauge your current industry knowledge, get an
introduction to the AV sector, understand the overlap with IT, and learn the
common vocabulary used in the CTS certification.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 6

Training
At any time, AVIXA offers additional training in the various
areas of AV. Courses (both online and in person) are offered in:
General Knowledge
For anyone who wants a better understanding of the industry
Installation
In-depth technical instruction for technicians, field engineers,
project managers, and integrators
Design
The art of AV facility and system design. Teaches core
concepts of AV systems design and the development of a
design plan in preparation for the CTS-D test
Live Events
Digital Signage Certified
Planning, implementation, and troubleshooting for professional Expert (DSCE)
technicians and managers, as well as event planners and
account executives who want to increase their knowledge The DSCE course is designed for AV, IT, advertising, and
content creation professionals who want to learn more
Networking and Technology about the advancements in the digital signage industry.
An exploration of networks and how AV operates within them. The course allows participants to learn how to master
Customized to gain the IT perspective digital signage rollouts, including design, hardware and
software selection, deployment, content creation, and ROI.
Technology Management
Training for the people who provide AV services and The course takes you through the 7 Key Elements of
technical support Digital Signage and walks through the business, content,
design, software, hardware, connectivity, and operational
Project Management & Business requirements of a successful digital signage project.
Best practices for project managers, technicians, and engineers
who develop proposals and estimates, lead teams, and
implement new processes
Digital Signage Display
Expert (DSDE)
2. DIGITAL SIGNAGE Everyone knows when they see a poorly calibrated display,
EXPERT GROUP but only the best AV professionals know how to fix it.
This course is focused on understanding the details of
The Digital Signage Expert Group (DESG) is a vendor-neutral display technology and how to calibrate displays to always
organization that provides professional industry certifications have the clearest picture. DSDE is the industry’s only
for the digital signage industry. It is the only globally recognized training program designed specifically for the display and
educational organization specifically created for the fast- calibration of digital signage.
growing AV segment of digital signage. Created to differentiate
certifications within the AV industry, the DSEG aimed to create This program recognizes the need for accuracy and
a certification program that was impartial and recognized the expertise for a digital signage project to meet the high
need for recognition of professional development in the area of expectations of our increasingly digital world. After
digital signage. completing the course, participants can expect to
understand each display technology and the key elements
The DSEG offers year-round online courses and certification, that work together to make what we see on digital displays
as well as onsite training and events. There are four different possible. The course includes projection, front and rear
digital signage certification programs but the two most relevant screens, optical screens, edge blending, viewing angles, hot
for installation techs are: spotting, and more.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 7

Residential Installation Certifications

In the ever-growing world of residential AV installation, there are two associations that specialize in this area:
CEDIA and the newly-formed Home Technology Association (HTA).

1. CEDIA
CEDIA is a globally known association that offers home technology training and continuing education
courses designed to help both AV professionals and adjacent trades increase their comfort with residential
technology systems.
CEDIA offers both in-person training by a CEDIA Outreach Instructor on a regional basis and online
courses. Along with on-site boot camps and workshops, online training is available to fit any schedule and
includes live and pre-recorded webinars, interactive e-courses, and online lessons.
The certification program is a set of four credentials in defined areas of home technology. In order to gain a
credential, you must demonstrate both knowledge and field experience necessary to master each skill. Once
you receive your certification, it carries with you throughout your entire career.
Certifications include:

CEDIA Electronic Systems Certified (ESC)

This certification is the foundation for all three other certifications. If you have several years of experience in
the industry, you may be able to skip this certification and move on to the more specialized courses below.
The ESC is built for students, career changers, and current professionals who want a certification that covers
the residential spectrum. It is recognized internationally and aims to enhance your knowledge of the home
technology industry no matter your job title or experience level.

CEDIA Certified Technician (ESC-T)

Most technicians with the skills ready to take this exam have between one and three years of electronic systems
training. If the terms rough-in, trim-out, integrated control systems, and retrofit speak to you, then this
certification is the right choice. The course covers installation tasks, troubleshooting, data communications,
and system verification and testing.

CEDIA Certified Networking Specialist (ESC-N)

Formally known as the Residential Networking Specialist credential, the ESC-N shares a mastery of design,
infrastructure, installation, and configuration of home networks. Technicians with experience in wireless home
networking, including advanced techniques such as VLANS, QoS, and remote access should consider taking
the ESC-N exam. CEDIA recommends at least two years of networking experience in the residential field.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 8

CEDIA Certified Designer work with most often. There are dozens of manufacturer-
(ESC-D) specific training courses available, but we thought we would
mention some of the most common.
With a focus on the system design and implementation of Milestones (AV University)
residential technology, a certified designer can bridge the
Home to Chief, Da-lite, Projecta, Sanus, and Vaddio
gap between clients and installation professionals. Working
training courses, AV University is a one-stop shop for
on everything from the budget, drawings, and schematics
product certifications, installation tips and tricks, and
to the development of the programming, designers are an
application specifics for these five manufacturers. As well,
important piece of the home technology puzzle. Before
these courses can be used for AVIXA CTS renewal credit.
taking the ESC-D exam, designers should have experience
with design documentation, project design, needs analysis, Biamp
and design management, plus a minimum of five years’ Free online training for certifications in TesiraFORTÉ,
experience. Tesira SERVER/SERVER-IO, TesiraLUX, Vocia, VoIP,
and Audia. Instructor-led classes are also available through
2. HTA the Biamp AV LAB at its Oregon headquarters.

The Home Technology Association (HTA) was recently BrightSign

created to fill the need for an industry standard for home Training videos, webinars, and tutorials are all available on
technology installation companies. The HTA has created a the BrightSign website.
set of standards to help consumers and professionals find the
most reputable professionals in the home technology industry. Cisco
Cisco offers five levels of network certification: Entry,
The HTA has partnered with industry insiders, Associate, Professional, Expert, and Architect. It offers
manufacturers, and veteran professionals to come up with certifications specializing in cloud, collaboration,
a rigid set of more than 60 standards necessary to identify cybersecurity operations, data centres, data and analytics,
and classify companies that are doing high-quality work digital transformation, Internet of Things, network
with strong reputations. programmability, routing and switching, security, service
While this is not a certification necessary for individuals, it provider, and wireless. Both instructor-led and online
is important those entering the AV industry know to watch courses are available.
for companies that are HTA certified. This will ensure ClearOne
you are working for and with a company that values high Offerings include online training and regional hands-on
technical competency, customer service, and honest work. training for integrators, system designers, and programmers
You can also be sure you will be trained properly and your interested in ClearOne’s audio, media collaboration, and
personal certifications will be valued. network streaming products. Courses are approved for
AVIXA CTS certification renewal units.
Manufacturer Training ELAN
While gaining your experience, building your resume, and Online certification is run by Core Brands University and
gaining certifications, it can be important to have specific includes courses on ELAN fundamentals, software, and
manufacturing training depending on systems you video distribution.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 9

Certifications for
the Live Events
Professional
1. AVIXA/IATSE
TTF LIVE EVENT
TECHNICIAN
CERTIFICATE
Live Events Professional Along with the previously mentioned
CTS certification, AVIXA offers specific
AV professionals are forever intertwined with the experience and courses and training with a focus on live
entertainment business. Working to combine content with technology events. Online courses such as Networking
to bring stunning messages to the public, the AV profession brings Technology and Event Setup for AV Techs
something new every day. When people think of spectacular audio-visual are great places to start learning more about
productions, they tend to think of live events like the Super Bowl or a live events. Those who may have already
music festival. Live events are where AV professionals shine by putting on completed their CTS certification may also
otherworldly experiences that audiences cheer for. decide to complete the CTS-D and CTS-I
specialized credentials to stand out and
More than ever before, AV technology is regularly integrated with broaden their knowledge of the industry.
live events. Training as a live event professional is now necessary to
differentiate yourself as a specialist in the area. Knowledge and experience AVIXA has also partnered with the
in the critical areas essential to live event production will set you apart International Alliance of Theatrical Stage
from other job candidates. Employees (IATSE) to gain special access to
AV-specific training and programs designed for
A Day in the Life the IATSE workforce.

Live event AV technicians work every day to bring events to life. They set The IATSE Education Program
up, operate, maintain, and repair equipment used to amplify, record, and
includes the following online
display sound and images at live events. They are the ones who make sure
everything sounds clear and looks great for the main attraction. courses:

Working with microphones, video recorders, projectors, sound mixing ﴿ Quick Start to the AV Industry
equipment, and lighting, live event technicians must be creative ﴿ Essentials of AV Technology
and flexible to bring to life a client’s vision. They must have strong ﴿ AV Math
communication skills and the ability to work with new people on short ﴿ Event Setup
deadlines under increased pressure. They also tend to work unusual hours
﴿ Project Management
to meet the demands of the event timeline and may need to sit or stand
for long periods of time. ﴿ Audiovisual Fundamentals
for Stagehands
Live event professionals tend to have backgrounds and experience in
design engineering, video engineering, lighting design, audio engineering, After completing these online courses as well
editing, and AV programming. Those in the AV industry looking to as the AV Essentials instructor-led course,
expand into live events can complete various certifications and training to participants can receive their AVIXA/IATSE
help them gain the skills they need. TTF Live Event Technician Certificate.
The
TheComplete
CompleteAV
AVProfessional
ProfessionalDevelopment
DevelopmentGuide
Guide 1010

2. OTHER ASSOCIATION
CERTIFICATIONS
There are other groups and associations worth mentioning
that offer specific training—they are listed below.
﴿ Evolve Media Group*
﴿ Entertainment Technician Certification Program
﴿ High-End Systems

3. MANUFACTURER TRAINING
When trying to build your resume to stand out as a live
event professional, having experience and education with
the systems typically found in the field is crucial. Many
manufacturers offer online and in-person training.

Some of the major manufacturer certifications to consider

are as follows:

﴿ Q-Sys* ﴿ Harman ﴿ L-Acoustics

﴿ AVID ﴿ GrandMA ﴿ ETC
﴿ Yamaha ﴿ Barco ﴿ Vectorworks
﴿ Shure ﴿ Absen LED ﴿ JBL Professional
﴿ SMAART* ﴿ Christie* ﴿ Bose
﴿ Extron* ﴿ Analog Way*

*manufacturing training courses that count towards AVIXA

CTS referral credit

AV Programmer
Where would we be without programmers? They are the
ones who make it possible for users to actually interact with
their audiovisual equipment from a simple interface, usually
a touch panel or tablet. AV programmers can sometimes
be confused with software developers or just “someone who
writes code,” but in the AV world, the programmer has
some distinct differences.
Programmers use either proprietary or manufacturer-driven
languages to develop programs that run and control AV
equipment. Typically, an AV programmer will be a specialist in
a given language or area of expertise, such as AMX NetLinx
or Crestron SIMPL. While software developers focus on
creating custom solutions or products, programmers tend to
create more fundamental programs to support user interaction
with AV technology.
 The The AV
The Complete
Complete AVProject
AV Manager’s
Professional
Professional Survival Guide
Development
Development Guide 11
11

A Day in the Life

Programmers are typically involved throughout the
entire lifecycle of a project. They are consulted on
during the estimation and proposal stage, they review
the bill of material to ensure that all the components can
“talk” to each other when the project is won, and they
provide the programming during the project.
On any given day, an AV programmer can be working
in almost any sector of the industry while helping in
the development of control systems to simplify user
interactions. They may be working with software
developers to create tools to simplify manufacturers’
equipment integration or developing custom
applications, but, generally, programmers spend their
time helping to bridge the gap between the end users
and their technology.
AV programmers tend to be involved in the flow of
the entire system. They not only take care of the
functionality of the AV system but also troubleshoot
errors and develop the user interaction with the
technology. One of the most important duties of a
programmer, apart from writing the code, is testing and
commissioning a system.
With the rise of “plug and play” solutions, the role
of the programmer has moved to more complex and
interconnected AV systems that require the experience
and expertise of a great AV programmer.
Programmers are typically the last ones onsite and they
get sign off from the end customer (with the project
manager). Many programmers also provide the initial
training with the customer on a quick “how-to” to use
their new system. Oftentimes, the programmer is the
most experienced and senior person on a technician
team. They can work remotely or on location. Most
great programmers are patient, detail-oriented problem
solvers. They enjoy tackling new problems and coming
up with creative and user-friendly solutions.
Many programmers have a background in installation
and AV testing as they need to know what connects
where and how everything should be functioning.
Some programmers start with a computer science and
software development background before focusing on
the AV industry, but as with many in the field, there are
a variety of ways you can start your career.
 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 12

AV Programmer Certification
As previously stated, many programmers start out installing, repairing,
and troubleshooting AV systems. Due to this, many programmers
complete their AVIXA CTS certification and many of the manufacturer
training courses we mentioned earlier in this guide. Below is a list of the
programming-specific courses, training, and certifications any aspiring
AV programmer should know about.

Crestron

Known for developing some of the most cutting-edge AV integration

and digital display products in the industry, Crestron is one of the major
players any programmer will have to be familiar with. AV programmers
that are Crestron certified are some of the most sought after in the
industry.
Their online training begins with the fundamentals, including details
on Crestron technology, its programming languages (SIMPL, SIMPL+,
SIMPL#), and the differences between them and other technologies.
Once Crestron 101 is completed, you move on to more specialized
courses at Crestron Technical Institute (located worldwide).
In order to complete your Crestron certification, you will need to attend
and complete five courses that explore more advanced programming
techniques and smart graphics knowledge. By achieving a Silver, Gold,
Platinum, or Diamond Master Programmer Certification Level, you will
separate yourself from the rest of the field. This is a highly sought-after
certification in the AV industry.
Not only will you get the skills you need but, by working with a Crestron
expert, you will have a direct relationship with the company. Once your
courses are complete, all that’s left is a take-home exam. Once you pass,
you are a Crestron-certified programmer. You’ll also receive a future
invite to the annual master class, $500 off any product, and a certification
logo to use as you wish.

AMX

Training for AMX products is run by Harman and its Harman

Professional University Certification program. These certifications are
broken into two tiers: the Associate level and the Professional level.
Associate training gives participants online training and is intended
to give immediate information in order to get a hang of the basics. In
the Professional course, instructor-led classes are offered and a deeper
understanding of the programming language is required.
Using the Harman University portal, you can enroll in classes and view
all the training offered on a wide variety of products and brands. Some
courses have requirements to enter, such as the completion of another
course, and the Professional track can only be achieved after completing
the Associate level. As prerequisites are completed, you are able to
continue through the classes until you are ready to attend the instructor-
led course or feel comfortable enough to complete the exam.
 AV Project Managers:
The AV
The Complete AVHow
Project
to Manager’s
Find &
Professional HireSurvival
Freelancers
Development Guide 1313
Guide 13

Extron

With over 5,000 products on the market, Extron is one of the most
renowned AV brands. Extron is dedicated to developing open-source
platforms using Python, so programmers need specialized training
in this language. Extron training involves courses on the control and
configuration of systems, as well as information on new 4K technology.
Courses are offered online and in person, and include four different
certification specialties. Along with the introductory AV Associate
certification, other courses include:
﴿ Control Specialist and Professional certification - Detailing the Extron
ProSeries control systems
﴿ ProDSP Specialist certification – Knowledge of the configuration and
management of Audio DSP Processors and AV Switchers
﴿ XTP Systems Engineer and Technician certification
Along with these courses, you also gain continuing education credit for
your AVIXA certification renewal.

Control4

For those interested in the residential boom of smart home programming,

Control4 is the leading provider you should be certified by. The
Pakedge® Certified Network Administrator (PCNA) program is a
comprehensive blend of online coursework and hands-on practical
training. The PCNA course combines the coursework with online
instructional office hours and an online exam to ensure competency for
Control4 products.
The entire course can be completed entirely online and enrolment
also includes the networking equipment you will need to be familiar
with. Through the guided tutorials and the direct experience with the
materials, the course is very well-designed and gives a detailed view of
designing networks for reliable performance. Currently, the course costs
$1,250 USD with a $600 rebate upon passing the PCNA exam.
 The
TheComplete
CompleteAV
AVProfessional
ProfessionalDevelopment
DevelopmentGuide
Guide 14
14

Brush up on Your Skills:

Tradeshows and Conferences HELPFUL TIP:
Don’t forget that one of the best ways for installation technicians, live event professionals, Many tradeshows
and AV programmers alike to sharpen their skills and gain industry-applicable training is do offer exhibitors
by attending AV conferences and tradeshows. Although they can come with an expensive invite codes for free
price tag, the opportunities for training and networking are unmatched. admission. Speak to a
familiar manufacturer
The larger conferences offer networking receptions, training classes, certification prep
or AV company to get
courses, technology tours, product demonstrations, and industry insights that can’t be found
the code. Then, you
anywhere else. In addition, some tradeshows are tailored to specific industry sectors, such as
only have to cover
broadcast or digital signage, which can help you choose which ones to attend.
the cost of travel and
While it may not be necessary for you to attend these types of tradeshows every year, accommodations
visiting every two or three years is a great way to make sure you are keeping up with your to attend.
certifications renewal requirements as well as gaining valuable networking experience.
Whether you are looking for ad hoc training, formal in-class courses or manufacturer
certifications, you can find them all at one of the AV conferences throughout the year.
Some of the major annual shows you should be aware of are:

Event Location Month

NAMM Anaheim, California, USA January

Consumer Electronics Las Vegas, Nevada, USA January

Show (CES)

ISE 2018 Amsterdam, Netherlands February

Digital Signage Expo Las Vegas, Nevada, USA March

NAB Las Vegas, Nevada, USA April

InfoComm 2018 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA June

NAMM (summer) Nashville, Tennessee, USA June

Integrate Sydney, NSW, Australia August

CEDIA San Diego, California, USA September

Plasa Show London, United Kingdom September

LDI Las Vegas, Nevada, USA October

 The Complete AV Professional Development Guide 15

Chart Your AV Career Path

There is no right or wrong way to chart your career path in the AV industry. The
AV world is constantly changing, and no one knows what skills and experience
will come into play on a project-to-project basis. Whether you are finishing school
with a computer science degree or a fine arts diploma, or you have been working
in an associated field for years and want to make the switch, training is available
to get you on the right path to an exciting career in AV. So try it out, take as many
free courses as you can, earn certifications, and start building your own vision of
what a true AV professional looks like. Good luck!

LEARN MORE

info@[Link]
1-844-602-2000