George “Red” Fournier, CTS, serves as Vice President of Technical Services for Laia Technologies North America, leading the company’s technical strategy, partner enablement, and product‑integration initiatives across the U.S. and Canadian markets. With over 40 years in audiovisual engineering, systems design, and unified communications, Red works closely with Laia’s global product and development teams to ensure the company’s camera and software ecosystem delivers seamless, reliable, and customer‑centric experiences. His ability to blend deep engineering expertise with real‑world integrator insight makes him a trusted voice in translating emerging Laia technologies into practical, scalable solutions for corporate, education, and government environments. Red is also known for his leadership and advocacy across the AV industry. He founded AV Gives Back in 2015, uniting the AV community around service and support efforts under the #AVGivesBack banner. He has held several roles within AVIXA’s councils—including the Manufacturers, Diversity, and Women’s Councils—and served as Chairman of the Systems Integrators Council from 2020 to 2022. Throughout the pandemic, he helped guide integrators through unprecedented disruption by establishing collaborative forums, partnering with the ITS Council, and advancing initiatives on contractor best practices, workforce development, and new‑hire onboarding, reinforcing his long‑standing commitment to industry standards and community resilience. Beyond his professional impact, Red is a lifelong volunteer dedicated to service, mentorship, and community support. Since 1985, he has served North Jersey communities as a volunteer firefighter, fire police officer, trainer, and hazardous‑materials emergency responder. He remains deeply engaged in youth development with the Patriots Path Council of Scouting America in New Jersey as a District Commissioner at Large, Unit Commissioner, merit badge counselor, and advancement administrator for both Troop & Crew 144. Red and his wife Beth, celebrated as the first female firefighter and first female captain in the 190‑year history of the City of Paterson Fire Department, are especially proud of their son, Seán, who will enter NJIT’s Ying Wu College of Computing as a first‑year student academically classified as a junior, pursuing Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and AI after completing his A.S., 61 credits, Security+ and ISC2 CC certifications through the County College of Morris/Morris County Share Time Program in Pequannock HS.

As a broadcast professional and multiplatform strategist with a passion for writing, I bring a unique perspective to content creation. Throughout my broadcasting career, which began in 2005, I have honed my skills in video production, system integration, and live event management. I have also managed interns and performed field marketing projects while maintaining a self-driven commitment to ongoing learning and growth. In addition to my technical expertise, I am also an avid reader and enjoy exploring new avenues for personal and professional development. My work in the digital media and web development sector has given me a fresh perspective on the power of content to connect with audiences and create meaningful change. As a multifaceted individual, I take pride in excelling in various pursuits. From international competitions and sports events to writing and volunteering, I always seek new ways to challenge myself and positively impact the world. If you're looking for a collaborator who can help you bring your ideas to life and deliver results on time, I'm here to help. Let's connect and explore how to work together to achieve your goals.

Horion Interactive flat panel Marketing manager and look forward to making new connections on the Xchange.

Krissy Rushing Tomlin is the CEO and co-founder of RISE Media Strategy. RISE is a full-service marketing agency that emphasizes expert, no-rewrites-needed, use-everywhere content that creates a resounding YES in the commercial and residential AV markets and beyond. This new marketing and content firm provides a fresh perspective on messaging, content, and marketing using big-picture AV expertise plus boots-on-the ground tactical marketing and writing chops to bring your company's message into crystal-clear view. 

🎯 Role Overview 🔸AV Systems Designer / Solutions Architect 🔹Crafting bespoke audio-visual systems tailored to client needs. 🛠️ Core Responsibilities 🔸Designing customized AV solutions with precision and technical depth. 🔸Creating comprehensive technical documentation. 🔸Acting as a technical authority during business development. 🔸Managing multiple projects while balancing account managers' expectations. 💻 Specialization in Video Conferencing Platforms 🔸Expertise in designing AV systems for: 🔹Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms, Webex Rooms, Google Meet Rooms 🔧 Technology Stack 🔸Solutions built using leading AV brands: 🚀 Design Philosophy 🔸Integration of the latest corporate AV trends. 🔸Focus on innovation, security, and scalability. 🔸Incorporating networking and security into AV designs. 🔸Ensuring alignment with user experience through close collaboration with teams and clients.