I’m grateful to be able to present and network at a variety of trade shows and events throughout the year. I’m often asked to be on panels and discuss challenges women face in this industry. And, quite frankly, I’m over it when it comes to speaking about being in the minority.
Over the last few years, I’ve changed my focus from, “Woe is me. I’m a minority in this industry,” to “Yeah, I’m a woman. Let’s talk tech!” I’ve made it a point not to discuss being marginalized but, rather, to focus on what “we,” collectively, bring to the table and focus on the opportunities versus the challenges.
Women Continue to Break Ground and Excel
Yes, women face distinct challenges. However, we continue to break ground and excel in our careers along the way. Whether it’s overcoming gender biases, navigating leadership roles or finding one’s voice in critical moments, the journey is filled with both trials and triumphs. As a women’s association dedicated to empowering women in pro AV and IT, WAVIT believes in providing a platform for open dialogue, professional development and strategy cultivation to overcome these barriers.
Our upcoming Tech Brunch/Panel Discussion at the Digital Signage Experience, focused on women’s experiences in digital signage and AV/IT technology, will explore these themes in depth. This event will provide a valuable space for sharing insights, professional advice and tools for career growth.
What follows are some essential strategies for women in the AV/IT industry as they navigate their careers and break barriers, drawn from key themes that will be discussed during the event.
Essential Strategies for Women in AV/IT
Recognizing and Addressing Challenges in the Workplace
For many women in the AV/IT industry, encountering challenges related to gender bias, lack of representation or peer underestimation is all too common. These issues are often unspoken, and women might feel hesitant to address them for fear of being labeled “difficult” or jeopardizing career growth.
To address this, it’s crucial to encourage open conversations about these challenges. It’s important for organizations to foster an inclusive environment in which discussing workplace challenges isn’t stigmatized but, rather, is embraced as an opportunity for growth.
Finding Your Voice in Critical Moments
Many women in the AV/IT industry have experienced moments during critical meetings or projects when they wish they had spoken up or taken a stand. Reflecting on these moments can be empowering and can pave the way for more assertive action in the future.
Finding one’s voice starts with preparation and confidence-building. Practicing self-advocacy through public speaking groups, such as Toastmasters, can be incredibly helpful. Additionally, setting small, achievable goals — for example, speaking up more frequently in meetings or sharing insights on industry trends — can develop a habit of being more vocal.
Creating a network of supportive peers who can act as allies in professional settings is also instrumental. These allies can help amplify your voice, when necessary; support your ideas; and provide feedback to help you refine your approach.
A Critical Factor for Career Advancement
Investing in Professional Development
Professional development remains a critical factor for career advancement in the AV/IT industry. For instance, women in AV/IT often benefit from leadership training focused on negotiation skills, technical certifications that validate their expertise or courses on emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence, cloud-based AV solutions). Seeking out these targeted development opportunities can make a significant difference in your career trajectory.
Beyond formal training, women should consider “sponsorship” in addition to mentorship. Unlike a mentor, who offers guidance, a sponsor actively advocates on behalf of their protégé, promoting them for assignments and opportunities that lead to career advancement.
Navigating Career Barriers and Biases
Despite significant progress in recent years, gender biases and barriers still exist in the AV/IT industry. Whether it’s being overlooked for promotions, or having limited access to leadership roles, or experiencing a lack of gender wage equity, women encounter obstacles that can be discouraging.
One effective strategy for overcoming these barriers is to seek visibility within the organization. Take on high-profile projects or volunteer for tasks that will increase your exposure to senior leaders. The more visible your contributions are, the more likely it is you will be recognized for your efforts.
Another approach is to build a personal brand that highlights your expertise and accomplishments. This can involve sharing knowledge through speaking engagements, publishing articles on industry trends or becoming an active member of professional groups focused on technology and AV.
Community and Networking Opportunities
Building a Strong Support Network and Participating in Mentorship Programs
One of the best parts of attending trade shows and events centers on the community and networking opportunities. At a recent cavlo Welcome Reception, I remarked on how our community has such a strong bond. We’re truly an open and welcoming industry.
Having a robust support network is crucial for women navigating the AV/IT industry. Professional organizations, such as women’s associations or AV/IT-specific networks, can be invaluable as a means of fostering connections, finding mentors and seeking advice from peers who have faced similar challenges.
Mentorship programs, such as WAVIT’s Wave of Influence Mentor Program, can be particularly effective when they are structured and formalized within the workplace. Women should seek out not only mentors who can provide guidance but also mentors who are in senior positions, as they can offer a broader perspective on the industry and advocate for your career growth.
Networking events, such as our upcoming panel discussion, offer an opportunity to connect with other women in the industry, share experiences and learn from each other, whether from successes and setbacks.
Representation Matters
Improving Representation in the AV/IT Industry
Representation matters — and increasing the number of women in AV/IT roles is essential for driving change. One way to improve representation is through advocacy for more inclusive hiring practices. Companies can do their part by expanding recruitment efforts to reach a broader range of candidates, offering internships to young women and partnering with organizations dedicated to supporting women in technology.
Women can also take an active role by participating in recruitment panels, advocating for diverse hiring practices and supporting the growth of female junior colleagues. The more visible women become in leadership roles, the more they can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in technology.
Leveraging Resources for Growth
Staying up to date with new technologies and practices is essential for career advancement, as well. Women should actively seek out resources (e.g., technical certifications, leadership-development programs, industry-specific workshops, publications like Commercial Integrator) that align with their career goals.
Resources for growth can extend beyond formal training programs. Peer support groups, industry forums and mentorship circles can provide real-world insights and practical advice. The key is to continuously pursue learning and development opportunities that push you to grow, and that keep your skills relevant.
The Last Word
Although our journeys in the AV/IT industry might vary, all of them are filled with unique challenges, while also being rich with opportunities for growth and leadership and to make a lasting impact. I hope you’ll join us at our upcoming panel discussion at DSE, where we will delve deeper into these topics, offering actionable strategies, shared experiences and insights from industry leaders. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to advocate for themselves, foster inclusive work environments and drive meaningful change within the AV/IT industry.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, you always have room for growth, learning and empowerment. Together, let’s break barriers and pave the way for the future of women in AV/IT.
Join us for a meaningful dialogue and take the first step toward making a difference in your career and the industry.
For more insights from WAVIT, check out our website archives.
