Training the future talent of our industry: The Institute of AV Technology

The $250B AV industry is one of the fastest growing industries across the globe. As a commercial industry when we refer to audio-visual technology or AV, we’re talking about the synchronisation of audio equipment like speakers and microphones with visual equipment such as cameras, projectors, and video walls. In today’s digitised world, the AV solution is all interconnected with video conferencing and collaboration technology such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom & Cisco Webex. These solutions are designed, deployed, and supported by the AV industry. Accordingly, the industry has continually upskilled with key IT certifications ensuring best-practice IT protocols and processes are adhered as these solutions are sitting on the client network. It’s one of the most dynamic industries around, but less well known when it comes to career paths.

An AV apprenticeship is unlike other apprenticeships. It is a mix of construction and IT. With the need to install and secure heavy hardware such as large displays and projectors, AV technicians need to be able to read construction plans, elevations, reflected ceiling plans, and layouts. However, at the same time, the AV technicians need to understand audio, acoustics, visual, lighting, network, and security to bring the whole technology solution to life. This requires a skill set of IT and electronics intertwined with the construction skills to be able to deliver a quality AV solution.

“The reason why we’ve started the Institute of AV Technology is because there is no actual course in the AV/IT or construction industry that pulls all of these skills and competencies together,” said Anthony Jeffcoat, founder of the Institute of AV Technology. We’ve noticed a skills shortage in our industry overall and it’s not surprising given it is such a niche industry. It’s a great industry to be a part of with vast opportunities. We are confident we can attract and provide compelling pathways for new entrants to the AV industry.”

Until now, there has been no structured AV apprenticeship and a lack of qualifications and hands-on training. Institute of AV Technology graduates will complete a four-year apprenticeship which includes a mix of theory and practical modules. Upon completion, graduates will receive:
1. A Certificate III in Electronics and Communications
2. An open cabling qualification
3. The AVIXA Certified Technology Specialist qualification and
4. Four years of practical industry experience establishing the foundations for future career pathways and development

The program provides graduates with a clear understanding of the industry and career pathway options. The opportunities are endless with roles such as site technicians, programmers, commissioners, service technicians and project managers. Graduates will be assisted throughout the program to help secure rewarding careers in the industry with AV integrators.

“Having worked in the industry for over a decade across project delivery, engineering and managed services, my AV apprenticeship allowed me to develop the technical and professional skills I needed for a successful career in the AV industry” said Joel Taylor, one of the Institute of AV Technology mentors and trainers. “I’m looking forward to passing on my knowledge and skills to the next generation.”

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