As a Principal Design Consultant at HMBA, I lead the transformation of performing arts and facility projects from innovative concept through construction and commissioning. In this leadership role, I ensure that every project not only meets aesthetic and technical standards but also resonates with our clients' vision and needs. Core Responsibilities: - Project Leadership: Direct and oversee the design of various theater components—including stage rigging, seating, lighting, acoustics, and sound systems—ensuring that each project is executed with precision and creativity. - Client Communication: Serve as the primary client contact, expertly translating their unique needs into practical design solutions that bring artistic visions to life. - Team Management: Lead and mentor multidisciplinary design teams, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation to achieve successful project execution. - Technical Expertise: Apply a deep understanding of theater technology, design principles, and industry best practices to elevate every project from concept to completion. - Business Development: Drive firm growth by identifying new opportunities and actively engaging with prospective clients in diverse markets. - Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic plans to address complex client needs and achieve project goals effectively. - Quality Assurance: Rigorously maintain the highest quality standards in design and construction, ensuring impeccable outcomes for every project stage. - Problem-Solving: Proactively identify challenges in design, construction, or project execution—and implement innovative solutions to overcome them. - Documentation and Reporting: Prepare comprehensive project drawings, detailed reports, specifications, and other critical documentation for internal teams and clients. - Budget Management: Collaborate in developing and managing project budgets, ensuring that initiatives remain within scope and are delivered on time.

Powering Projects With Precision AV Delivery | Proud Finalist – AV Awards 2025, AV Professional of the Year

As an architect by training (BS Architecture, Cal Poly SLO) and a collaborative technologist with four decades of practice, I’m passionate about mentoring the next generation of AV professionals in the intersection of technology, strategy, and leadership. I've been active in AVIXA since 1986, and served on the national board, 1993-2000. I'm a Fellow of the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), and an Associate member of the American Institute of Architects.  My expertise spans audiovisual systems design, integrated building technology, strategic business development, and higher education technology planning. I bring an award-winning, B2B design thinking approach developed through leadership roles with national AEC and technology firms. I’ve led marketing and sales strategy, designed future-ready digital experience environments, and helped organizations implement AI-powered tools to scale expertise and performance. I’m available as a mentor or advisor in areas including AV system design for education and civic spaces, AI-enhanced business development, strategic marketing for integrators and consultants, digital experience planning, and leadership development for rising professionals. I’m especially focused on helping firms utilize technology not just to build systems, but to establish credibility, save time, and drive revenue growth. Known throughout the AEC and AV industries for my thought leadership and integrity, I share insights through industry publications, AVIXA and SMPS events, and my blog, CatalystFactor—a resource for growth strategies, leadership development, and marketing innovation. .

Grifiths Zachariah, CTS, is an experienced professional in the Pro AV industry, currently serving as the Associate VP for the EMEAIO Sales and Global Alliancesgion at ClearOne Inc. With a background in electronics engineering and nearly two decades of experience in the industry, Grifiths has worked in various technical, training, project management, and sales leadership roles. This extensive experience has given him a deep understanding of the latest trends and innovations in the field and a passion for sharing his knowledge with others. Throughout his career, Grifiths has worked with various system integration companies and manufacturers, managing large-scale projects and troubleshooting complex systems. This experience has equipped him with the skills needed to deliver high-quality, comprehensive training to AV professionals, focusing on sharing his experience to empower others to succeed in their careers.

I’m attending InfoComm 2025 as part of the Diversified team, focused on building strategic partnerships, exploring AV innovation, and connecting with new and existing subcontractors. As a Partner Manager, I specialize in developing scalable vendor ecosystems that support high-performance AV integration, digital signage, and workplace technology solutions. Always looking to collaborate with forward-thinking professionals and companies that are shaping the future of AV.

With a background in content strategy, brand management, and community building for global franchises like Star Wars and Star Trek, I’ve spent my career connecting people to the stories they love. At AVIXA, I’m doing the same—only now, the story is AV itself: how it connects, empowers, and transforms us. I’m especially drawn to the intersection of AV and pop culture, immersive tech, and storytelling. I’m here to help others unlock the potential of Xchange—whether it’s building their brand, expanding their reach, or just finding their people.

Husband, father, technology evangelist and technical sales professional, helping customers better connect and communicate through collaboration technologies.