As a theatrical consultant, AV design engineer, and ETCP Certified professional with over two decades of experience, my passion lies in merging safety, technology, and innovation to enhance the entertainment and AV industries. I specialize in theatrical rigging inspections, AV system design, and entertainment electrical safety, providing expert guidance to venues, architects, and production teams.
With a background in technical theatre and occupational health and safety, I bring a unique perspective to the intersection of design, engineering, and risk management. My work spans consulting for performing arts centers, designing AV solutions for commercial, community, and entertainment spaces, and educating professionals through standards development and training programs.
I am known for my ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable solutions, ensuring that technology and safety work hand in hand. As an ETCP Recognized Trainer and industry leader, I actively contribute to ANSI standards, and participate in AVIXA, ESTA, and USITT, sharing insights on best practices in entertainment safety, rigging, and AV systems.
Connect with me to discuss industry best practices, AV system design, or entertainment safety solutions.
Still a bit of an AV rookie. Not technical at all unless you need the clock on your VCR reset. Ally for Diversity & Inclusion across all industries. Member of the AVIXA Foundation Board, Diversity Council, and Women's Council. I have no clue what that component does. Professional Speaker. Aspiring Game Show Host. Below Average Charity Golfer. Overuser Of Capital Letters Where They Are Not NECESSARY. He/Him.
Vertical AVTV was founded in 2002 in Atlanta, GA by Robert Harlin and Bill Shiverick. We provide a range of technology services - design, installation, integration and management - in the commercial market.
Audio Visual | Structured Cabling | Access Security | Digital Signage | Sound Masking | Satellite Television | WiFi/DAS
We provide these services to our clients throughout the US.
Bill Larsen, CTS, serves as District AV Technology Coordinator for ISD 197 (West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan, Minnesota), managing AV services across nine buildings including two high schools, two middle schools, and five elementary schools. He holds the CTS credential from AVIXA and serves as a Subject Matter Expert for CTS exam development.
Bill is the founder of Backstage Essentials LLC, an independent consulting practice focused on K-12 performance space and AV systems. His forthcoming book, Backstage Essentials: Skills for Stagehand Technicians in Live Event Production, is being published by Routledge/Taylor and Francis in 2026.
He also serves as Education Coordinator for IATSE Local 490 and brings more than 30 years of experience in educational technology and live event production.