In this month’s magazine cover story, Josh Srago told integrators, “You’re officially out of excuses.” It’s time to embrace AV/IT convergence.
But he knows not every AV integrator is a master in the art of IT (or vice versa). Unfortunately, that’s no longer a good excuse. The industry is always moving forward; you have to either move ahead with it or be left behind.
“Without a fundamental understanding of network topology and technology it will be extraordinarily difficult for you or members of your team to communicate with the network administrator on the project to gain access to the network ports you need,” says Srago.
Fortunately, there are more resources than ever for you and your team to catch up on your IT education and stay ahead of the curve. The following industry groups offer countless programs and courses in the field.
If you’re preparing to make some changes in your business and become proficient or even experts in IT convergence, start here.
InfoComm International
infocomm.org: Click on ‘Education’ to find physical and virtual classroom courses, manufacturers’ trainings, training at roundtables and tradeshows, webinars. Click on ‘Resources’ for reports, white papers, guides, market research, practice exams and more.
“Our courses are based on content developed by industry experts — so you know the information is accurate and up-to-date. In fact, 96% of students report that they use what they learn in class on the job.”
Building Industry Consulting Service Int’l (BICSI)
bicsi.org: Click on ‘Standards’ to find documents and guidelines for the design, installation and integration of information communications technology. Click on ‘Training’ for open-enrollment courses, corporate on-site courses, authorized design training providers, and authorized training facilities.
“The BICSI Learning Academy offers internationally recognized training for voice, data, and video distribution design and installation, as well as project management, including introductory, intermediate and advanced-level instruction.”
Electronic Systems Professional Alliance (ESPA)
espa.org: Click on ‘Exam Prep’ for coverage of electrical basics, tools, construction methods and materials, wiring and installation practices, and standards, codes and safety practices.
“ESPA was created to establish industry recognized training and certification for entry-level Electronic Systems Technicians (ESTs). The EST career path is one of the fastest growing in North America.”
Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA)
cedia.net: Click on ‘Training’ to find online training featuring eCourses, lessons and webinars; in-person training with Boot Camps, conferences and events, and workshops; and resources including a template library, guides and publications, white papers and research.
“CEDIA Training is designed to help you learn, grow, and master the skills you need to be competitive in the home technology field.”
Read More: You’re Out of Excuses: Time to Prepare for IT Convergence
