The NSCA Education Foundation names Kelly Perkins the first-ever program director “with a goal of developing, directing, implementing and managing strategic initiatives and programs that align with the charitable organization’s mission,” according to the announcement.
Perkins has served on the NSCA Education Foundation board of directors since July 2015 and was instrumental in launching many of its initiatives and programs, including IGNITE.
That program premiered at the 2016 NSCA Business & Leadership Conference “as a way to showcase the industry and its career opportunities to job seekers, students and educational institutions,” according to the press release.
During the unveiling of IGNITE, Perkins noted the struggles AV integrators and others in the industry have in promoting themselves to others who don’t work within the space, including young people who might not realize everything a career in AV could be for them.
Kelly Perkins joined the AV industry in 2008 with Vaddio in a marketing and communications role.
For six years, she was involved with the company’s global product and brand marketing, as well as media and public relations – eventually becoming the company’s marketing and communications manager.[related]
In 2014, she joined integrator AVI Systems, leading the marketing and communications team and overseeing the company’s strategic integrated marketing approach. Most recently, Perkins spent three months traveling across Australia and New Zealand.
“With my background in marketing and communications for a manufacturer and an integrator, I’m excited to continue to help the industry I love in this new role,” says Perkins.
“Manufacturers, dealers and integrators count on these programs, and it’s time to take them to the next level.”
Perkins was also part of the inaugural 40 CI Influencers Under 40 in 2014, where we paired her with her AV Social co-host, Dawn Meade.
In her new role, Kelly Perkins will “work to build awareness and propel the industry forward, attracting a next-generation workforce,” according to the announcement. She’ll be responsible for initiatives such as IGNITE, PASS K-12, ESPA, and a variety of scholarship, educational and research programs.
“Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with her to the NSCA Education Foundation,” says Chuck Wilson, NSCA Education Foundation director.
“Her first priority will be managing the IGNITE subsidized internship program this summer and I’m certain she’ll make it a huge success.”
