As the pro AV industry closes the chapter on 2025, it’s clear this has been a year of transformation, innovation and adaptation. From the rapid adoption of AI and the rise of micro-experiences to the growing integration of AV within IT infrastructures, the industry has navigated both challenges and opportunities with resilience. To capture the essence of this pivotal year, Commercial Integrator has compiled reflections from some of the industry’s most notable voices.
In this hub, you’ll find insights from leaders like Alesia Hendley, Brad Hintze, David Labuskes, and others, who share their perspectives on the trends, surprises and shifts that defined 2025. Whether it’s the evolution of enterprise broadcast, the growing importance of service-driven models, or the push toward experience-driven solutions, these reflections offer a comprehensive look at how pro AV has adapted to meet the demands of a rapidly changing landscape. Dive in to explore the key takeaways and predictions shaping the future of pro AV.
The list below is an ongoing, constantly updated compilation of our 2025 reflections. We last updated this page as of Dec. 22, 2025.
Compilation of our first dozen pro AV industry leaders reflections. Composed by CI Staff.
List of 2025 Pro AV Reflections
- Brawn Consulting’s Alan Brawn
- AVIXA’s David Labuskes
- HETMA’s Joe Way
- AVCT’s Kristin Bidwell
- Edge’s Mike Boettcher
- @TheSmoothFactor’s Alesia Hendley
- Crestron’s Brad Hintze
- Apogee Insight’s Sean Wargo
- AVI-SPL’s Julian Phillips
- D-Tools’ Randy Stearns
- CTI’s Tobi Tungl
- AtlasIED’s Gina Sansivero
- Sony’s Rich Ventura
- WyreStorm Technologies’ Ken Vanier
- BrightSign’s Misty Chalk
Key Themes
AI
AI-driven tools like speech intelligibility, transcription, meeting summaries, and intelligent video have become essential, enhancing system capabilities and redefining workflows.
Pro AV as Critical Infrastructure
Pro AV is now integral to IT systems, valued alongside Wi-Fi and electrical systems, with a focus on security, reliability and real-time management.
Hybrid Permanence and Flexible Spaces
The permanence of hybrid work models has driven investments in versatile, high-impact collaboration spaces, reflecting a shift in workplace priorities.
Shift to Experience-Driven Solutions
The industry has moved beyond hardware specs to focus on delivering personalized, immersive, and measurable experiences that captivate audiences.
Service-Driven Business Models
A growing emphasis on ongoing support, remote management, predictive maintenance and data-driven strategies has reshaped how integrators deliver value.
Stay tuned with Commercial Integrator as we gather year-end insights and reflections from the brightest minds in the industry. If you’d like to be featured, contact our editorial team (Alyssa Borelli, Amala Reddie and Dan Ferrisi).
