Up through May 2022, I managed the AV Engineering & Operations team at the University of North Georgia. We maintained multiple campuses of classrooms with control systems in each and we worked with a team of support technicians who handle work on incident management while we handled incident escalations as well as problem management, change management, and request fulfillment (to use the ITIL vernacular). In May 2022, I became a Design Engineer 1 for AVI-SPL, based out of the Atlanta, GA office. I worked with the Account Managers to design systems for customers prior to sales, then worked with the post sales team once a system is purchased. Over the next two years, I was promoted to Design Engineer 2. In October 2024, I became an Engineering Manager for AVI-SPL, managing the Design Engineers and Project Engineers in the Atlanta, GA office.

► WHAT I DO: Results-driven professional with extensive, real-world experience in Audio Visual (AV), Information Technology (IT), and Cybersecurity. Proficient in leading cross-functional teams, implementing robust security measures, and optimizing technology infrastructure. Adept at leveraging advanced certifications, including Avixa CTS-D, ISC2 CISSP, CompTIA Security+, ISACA CISM, a certificate from Harvard, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Georgia Tech. Committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends and technologies, and leading by example.   ► MY LEADERSHIP STYLE: • Manages issues and solutions with poise and confidence. • Leads and demonstrates the ability to gain support at all levels of the organization. • Maintains a strong sense of urgency to get things done thoroughly, not quickly, and delegates responsibility to others in a personable way. • Plans for the big picture while adapting to shifting gears to achieve goals, using strong foresight and organizational skills. ►WHAT SETS ME APART FROM THE REST: • Audiovisual + IT + Cybersecurity + Architectural + Marketing experience • Seasoned engineer / architect with broad and in-depth technical, analytical, and conceptual skills • Proven track record of effectively communicating with business leadership and other vendors • Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills to drive security messages to teams • Extensive knowledge of subcontracting, construction projects, labor estimates, privacy, control system protocols, and integrated audiovisual systems ▶ RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: 🔹 Cybersecurity: • Developed and executed cybersecurity strategies to safeguard critical systems and mitigate potential threats. • Conducted vulnerability assessments and advanced hunting techniques to identify and address security vulnerabilities. • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with industry regulations and best practices. 🔹 AV and IT: • Successfully managed and supported AV and IT operations, overseeing the implementation and maintenance of technology solutions in military facilities, and audio visual integrators nationwide. • Led the design and deployment of integrated AV systems, enhancing collaboration and communication across the organization. • Implemented cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive data and mitigate security risks. #GeorgiaTech #Harvard #RiskManagement #SecOps #SecurityOperationsCenter #CloudSecurity #DFIR #SecurityAuditing #Cybersecurity #Confidentiality #Integrity #Availability #IncidentResponse #InfoSec #NetworkSecurity #DataPrivacy #ThreatIntelligence #CTS-D #CISSP #CISM

As Content Manager, I develop both in-person and digital programs for AVIXA. I'm always looking for new content ideas that highlight topics and trends of importance to the AV industry, particularly in the areas of Content Production and Streaming, Learning and Live Events. My favorite part of my job is finding cool immersive experiences for our tours during InfoComm. Contact me at mwalsh@avixa.org with your thoughts.

I believe marketing should do more than make noise. It should make it matter. Whether it’s driving demand, building brand heat, or giving sales teams something real to run with, I’m here to make sure marketing actually moves the needle. At CTI, I lead a team of people who give a damn about results and relationships. From Pro AV to broadcast, mission critical spaces, and beyond, we create campaigns that build trust and drive growth. No cold DMs. No gimmicks. Just work that works. What drives me? The endurance mindset. I’m an athlete, a coach, and someone who believes showing up when it’s hard is what makes it count. Let’s build something that lasts. If you care about people, growth, leadership, or building brands that actually work, I’m all ears.

Michael Fay is owner/principal at GraceNote Design Studio, a pro audio and acoustic design consultancy. The author of Acoustic Essentials for Architects; and a member of SynAudCon (SAC); Audio Engineering Society (AES); Acoustical Society of America (ASA); AVIXA; AIA; Miramar College Audio Program Advisory Board; and former editor or Recording Engineer/Producer magazine.