Helping lead the charge of AVIXA's research efforts into the trends and opportunities in the pro AV industry. When not digging into data, speaking and writing about the trends, or discussing where to focus our research efforts next, I enjoy spending time outdoors on walks, hikes or fishing adventures. Though I also have a soft spot for consuming AV content in my DIY home theater, thanks to a love for good audio I get honest from my Dad! 

As a skilled AV and Acoustics Engineer, I am dedicated to creating immersive and engaging experiences through technology with an understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of the industry. From live events and conferences to immersive installations and digital signage, I am passionate about utilizing cutting-edge technology to bring ideas to life.

A University of Central Florida double-alum with a Master’s in Digital Media, I'm a content creator who loves bringing people together over shared interests. As AVIXA's Coordinator of Digital Content, I produce articles on a myriad of technology topics. I've also worked on virtual reality projects, transforming Romanian folk tales into VR narratives. 

Our Community Spotlight highlights some of the most prominent, active users in the AVIXA Xchange community. These quick interviews touch on hot topics within the AV industry right from the minds of experts in their respective fields.

http://avixa.org

We’re the Hub for All People and Things AV We are the community for the creative professionals who use technology to create integrated experiences. AVIXA is the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, co-owner of Integrated Systems Europe, and the international trade association representing the audiovisual industry.

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.

As AVIXA's manager of editorial content, I bring to the role fifteen years of marketing experience and ten working predominantly in editorial and video content. I've spent many years in the entertainment industry working for Nickelodeon, Lucasfilm, Disney, and even a small theater in the heart of Florence, Italy. I love great stories and finding the right way to tell them. I am also a stop-motion animation aficionado who makes puppets and writes books. And if you have a food-related AV story, I'd love to hear it!

A marketing professional and 20-year AV industry veteran, I am a proud CTS holder and enthusiastic #AVfoodie who is passionate about innovative technologies, design, and all things AV. I look forward to connecting with you here on Xchange and invite you to join me on LinkedIn as well.  To reach me, please message me on LinkedIn, as I am unable to reply to conversations here. 

MattPana.com | @MattPana Navigating the crossroads of content and community in #proAV? Shoot me message, I'd love to hear what you're working on! I am available to contribute to content, webinars, panels and podcasts on the following topics: Diversity and AAPI Marketing and Content Creation Podcasting and Voice-Over Work Trade Associations and Nonprofits AV within an IT environment Matt's roots first took shape in at Seton Hall University, where he studied abroad in 4 countries and was quickly elected as one of the youngest National Chairs of FIND Inc., the east coast’s largest Filipino-American student organization. His latest mission has been to cultivate communities and develop engaging content, garnering a decade of experience in marketing, production, and digital media. After serving as a Communication Consultant for the United Nations (UNDP), Matt would go on to complete a Master’s in Communication at Purdue University. In this current chapter, Matt leverages his passions for media and technology to serve ISDA as a thought leader in the public sector. He is also an AVIXA XChange Advocate, contributing to content that cultivates conversation in the pro AV community. 

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. .

► 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+, 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

I am a principal consultant and Owner of Audiovisual Consulting Team, LLC (AVCT). We are based in Boston and NYC and provide AV and acoustic consulting services for commercial projects. WBE / DBE Certified! www.avconsultingteam.com