I thought about writing this while attending ISE 2025 in Barcelona during the first week of February 2025. The event was a hub of innovation, showcasing the latest advancements in AV technology and its impact on various industries. Recently, a new professional connection -AVIXA volunteer at ISE, who shares the same enthusiasm for the field, reinforced my belief that young engineers and professionals should seriously consider a career in AV.

Starting with a small introduction for new engineers:

AV industry is an ever-evolving field that blends cutting-edge technology with creativity to deliver immersive experiences across multiple sectors. Whether in entertainment, corporate environments, education, healthcare or government, AV solutions play a pivotal role in enhancing communication, collaboration and engagement. However, despite the dynamic nature of this industry, many young engineers and aspiring professionals often overlook AV as a potential career path.

I-So why choose AV industry ?
The reality is that the AV industry offers incredible opportunities for those willing to explore it. From system design and integration to product manufacturing and installation, there are numerous career paths for young professionals to pursue. To truly make an impact, aspiring engineers and technology enthusiasts should consider joining the AV industry right from their university days or immediately after graduation.

I will try to highlight why the AV industry is a compelling career choice and provide insights into how new professionals can establish themselves in this field.

II-What is the Role of AV in the Modern World ?

AV technology is integrated into almost every aspect of modern life. Whether you’re attending a conference, watching a live concert, participating in an online meeting or walking through a digital signage-rich airport, AV systems are at work. The industry continues to grow, fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence, IoT and network-based solutions such as AV-over-IP and Dante-enabled audio systems.

Key sectors where AV professionals make a significant impact include:

• Corporate & Enterprise: Video conferencing, smart meeting rooms, digital signage.
• Entertainment & Events: Large-scale concerts, theme parks, immersive sound systems.
• Education: Smart classrooms, distance learning, interactive displays.
• Healthcare: Telemedicine, patient information systems, advanced communication tools.
• Government & Public Spaces: Command centers, security surveillance, public announcement systems.

With the continuous expansion of technology, the demand for skilled AV professionals is higher than ever, making it an excellent industry for new engineers and technology enthusiasts.

III-The real question : Why Should Young Engineers Consider AV as a Career Path ?

1. High Demand for AV Professionals:

The AV industry is experiencing rapid growth, leading to an increasing demand for skilled professionals. As businesses, institutions and entertainment venues continue integrating advanced AV solutions, they require experts to design, install and maintain these systems. By entering the field early, young professionals can secure rewarding career opportunities with long-term growth potential.
For instance, in the GCC region specially in Qatar, UAE and KSA, there is a particularly strong demand for AV engineers, especially AV commissioning engineers often referred to as AV programmers by some companies. Over the past few years, I have personally observed a surge in market demand for these two roles.

2. Why it is A Unique Blend of Creativity and Technology :

Unlike traditional engineering disciplines that focus solely on mechanical, electrical or software applications, the AV industry merges technical expertise with creativity. Professionals in this field design systems that enhance user experiences through sound, visuals, automation and control technologies. For those who enjoy both engineering and artistic elements, AV provides the perfect balance.

3. Let’s discover some diverse Career Opportunities :

The AV industry offers a wide range of career paths, including:

• AV System Design Engineer: Designing comprehensive AV solutions for various environments.
• Project Manager: Overseeing AV installations and ensuring project completion.
• Field Technician/Installer: Installing and maintaining AV equipment on-site.
• Product Development Engineer: Working with manufacturers to create new AV technologies.
• AV Programmer: Developing control systems for seamless AV automation.
• Sales and Business Development: Educating clients on AV solutions and managing key accounts.

No matter your interest whether in hands-on technical work, design or sales ,there is a place for you in AV.

4. Integration with IT and Emerging Technologies :

Modern AV is no longer just about cables, screens and microphones. The industry has evolved significantly and is now deeply integrated with IT, AI, cloud computing and IoT. AV-over-IP technology allows audiovisual content to be transmitted over networks, requiring AV professionals to have strong knowledge of networking and digital infrastructure. Engineers with IT skills can find significant crossover opportunities in AV, making it an exciting and future-proof career.

5. Global Exposure and Career Growth:

The AV industry is international, with companies, trade shows and projects spanning the globe. Events like ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) and InfoComm bring together AV professionals, manufacturers and thought leaders, providing young engineers with networking opportunities and exposure to groundbreaking innovations. Additionally, AV professionals often work on large-scale international projects, offering travel and global career prospects.

IV- The second most important Question : How to Get Started in the AV Industry ?

For aspiring professionals looking to enter the AV industry, starting early is key. Here are some strategic steps to kickstart a successful AV career:

1. Gain Hands-On Experience During University:

University students interested in AV should actively seek out opportunities to gain practical experience. Some ways to get involved include:

• Joining AV clubs or student organizations focused on technology.
• Assisting in university media production or event management teams.
• Volunteering for AV setup in live events, conferences ,meeting room or concerts.

2. Pursue Internships with AV Companies:

Internships with AV manufacturers, system integrators or consulting firms provide invaluable real-world experience. Many companies offer internship programs where students can learn about:

• System design and installation.
• Audio processing and video distribution.
• AV control programming.
• Emerging technologies like AV-over-IP and immersive sound systems.

Internships help build industry connections and provide a stepping stone into full-time employment.

3. How to Stand Out? Stay Updated with the Latest Tech & Earn AV Certifications !

To build a successful career in the AV industry, staying ahead of technological advancements and gaining industry-recognized certifications is essential. Certifications not only enhance your credibility but also demonstrate your expertise in AV technology. Some key certifications to consider include:

• CTS (Certified Technology Specialist offered by AVIXA), this is a fundamental certification for AV professionals.
• Dante Certification: Focuses on audio networking using Dante technology, a crucial skill in modern AV installations.
• Crestron & Extron Programming Certifications: Essential for professionals specializing in AV control system programming.
• ANP ( AudioVisual Network Professional Certification offered by @AVIXA ) & CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate): Ideal for those looking to integrate IT and AV knowledge, as networking plays a vital role in today’s AV systems.

Additionally, many leading manufacturers and organizations offer valuable certifications that can further enhance your expertise and career prospects. Staying proactive in learning and upskilling will set you apart in this competitive industry.
 

4. Attend Industry Events and Network:

Industry trade shows and events such as ISE (Integrated Systems Europe), InfoComm and AVIXA events are key opportunities for young professionals to immerse themselves in the latest advancements in AV technology. These events showcase cutting-edge products, innovative solutions and provide insight into the future of the AV industry. Attending these shows allows young professionals to:

• Discover New Technologies: With manufacturers and tech giants displaying their latest products, attendees can see firsthand how technologies such as spatial audio, 3D sound systems, advanced video wall setups and control room systems are evolving.
• Attend Workshops and Seminars: These events often host workshops and seminars specifically designed for students, newcomers and early-career professionals. These sessions are great for gaining technical knowledge, learning about industry standards and hearing from thought leaders and experts.
• Build a Professional Network: Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of attending these events. Young professionals can meet industry leaders, consultants, engineers and other professionals who could become future collaborators, mentors or employers. Networking at these events also provides a chance to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field with like-minded individuals.
• Career Advancement: Many companies attend these events looking for new talent. Building relationships with potential employers or learning about internship opportunities can jumpstart a career in the AV industry.

Overall, these industry events are not just about learning; they are about connecting, sharing knowledge and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry.

5. Why is it crucial for AV professionals to stay updated with industry trends and actively engage in online communities ?

In today's fast-paced AV world, staying updated on the latest industry trends is essential. Following the right resources and engaging in online communities can provide continuous learning and opportunities to connect with peers and industry experts. Here's how:

• Stay Informed Through Industry News: Following online publications, blogs and social media accounts related to AV technologies helps you keep up-to-date on emerging trends, new product launches and market shifts. AVIXA's website, AV Magazine, AV Network and other trusted sources regularly publish articles about the latest technology, case studies and best practices.
• Join and Participate in Online Communities: Platforms like AVIXA Xchange, AV forums and LinkedIn groups are invaluable for professionals looking to share their experiences and engage in meaningful discussions. These communities are full of experts, mentors and peers who actively exchange ideas, provide advice on troubleshooting complex issues and share the latest insights in AV technology.
• Ask Questions and Seek Advice: Online communities are an excellent place for newcomers to ask questions and receive feedback from experienced professionals. Whether you're troubleshooting an installation issue or exploring new technology, these communities provide a wealth of knowledge that is often freely shared.
• Collaborate and Learn: Many communities offer opportunities for collaboration on projects or solutions. Engaging in these collaborative spaces not only enhances your technical skills but also expands your professional network and fosters a sense of belonging within the AV community.
• Engage with Thought Leaders: Following industry influencers, AV experts and thought leaders on LinkedIn or Twitter can give you access to valuable perspectives and updates on where the industry is headed. This keeps you informed and helps you align your skills with future industry needs.

By actively following trends and participating in online communities, you can establish yourself as a knowledgeable and well-connected professional, ensuring you remain competitive in the AV field.

V-Final Thoughts: A Free Piece of Advice to the New Generation of Engineers : I Believe and trust that the Future Belongs to AV Innovators !

The AV industry is a gateway to a fulfilling and future-proof career. It offers the perfect blend of technology, creativity and problem-solving while playing a crucial role in global communication and entertainment. With continuous innovation in AV-over-IP, immersive audio and interactive technologies, the demand for skilled professionals will only grow.

For young engineers and aspiring professionals, now is the time to step into the AV industry. Start early, gain hands-on experience, earn certifications and build connections within the community. The AV world is waiting for the next generation of innovators and with the right approach, you can be at the forefront of shaping its future.

AV community and AV professionals, what are your thoughts ?