Baltimore Web Designer Finds Her Passion In New Specialty
The professional audio-visual field or Pro AV, as it is called, refers to the burgeoning area of expertise known as commercial integration - that is, where audio-visual intersects with new or existing technology. Because of its increasing complexity in venues such as stadiums, churches and businesses of all sizes and the expense involved, professional guidance is becoming simply a wise business decision.
Dawn Meade, is the marketing and media director at Net AV and was named to the 2014 'Top 40 Commercial Integration Influencers Under 40' by Commercial Integrator magazine.
Her career, however, did not begin in technology. She initially graduated from Dickinson College with a B.A. in Dance/ Dramatic Arts.
As she explains, "I obtained my graduate degrees while working in the industry, primarily to bolster my own credentials as a woman working in a technology field."
Meade graduated from University of Maryland University College with a dual degree - an M.B.A. and M.S. - in Technology Management Information Systems and then went on to obtain certifications including Infocomm International Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification.
What inspired you to enter Pro AV?
"I actually fell into the Pro AV field. I was working in advertising and web design but my commute was awful; and the position was not what I'd hoped for. My fiancé was working in Pro AV and arranged for me to do a freelance web design project at his company. I started there and never went back! I had no idea that playing with all the cool AV technology was a legitimate career opportunity."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"Since there is no degree program in the U.S. currently for the Pro AV integration field, I went with an M.B.A. and a semi-related Technology Management IT degree as a way to bring additional value to my role."
How has your education helped to further your career and contribute to your success?
"The M.B.A.-M.S. do give me more credibility when meeting with corporate and Federal clients who aren't as well versed with the specialized Pro AV certifications."
"On the other hand, my industry certifications, specifically the CTS, provide a credibility within the industry and open doors there."
"Thus, the combination of the M.B.A.-M.S. with the CTS has provided me the skills and recognition needed to rise to my current level."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into Pro AV?
"Since we don't have any degree programs, we will train passionate, interested and talented people. Workers with the right skills and our certifications – as well as some standard IT certifications – are in WILD demand."
"The best ways to get involved: Apply at your local AV integrator. Visit Infocomm International, or National Systems Contractors Association; both of the above offer industry specific classes online, links to other educational opportunities, scholarships and grants for education, and even job boards to find positions."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years. Her current interests, in which she has several certifications, are metaphysics and the healing arts. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times.