Editor’s Note: This article featuring Tim Kuschel, training & education manager, Panasonic Projector & Display Americas, is part of Commercial Integrator’s #MyAVJourney series, where we explore the journey of AV professionals and the lessons learned along with way.
For many professionals in the AV industry, the journey begins with a spark of curiosity and a willingness to embrace challenges. For Tim Kuschel, now the training and education manager at Panasonic Projector & Display Americas, that spark ignited during college when a job posting for an AV technician at a local hotel set him on a path that would shape his career. From hands-on roles in production companies to leading high-profile projects, Kuschel has built a career defined by adaptability, technical expertise and a passion for teaching others. In this Q&A, he shares his insights on breaking into the AV industry, the skills that matter most, and the rewarding opportunities that await those willing to dive in.
Tim Kuschel’s AV Journey
Commercial Integrator: How did you get your start in AV? Can you share your first job story in the industry?
Tim Kuschel: I started my AV career while I was in college studying media and TV production. The career center at my school posted a job opening for an AV technician at a local hotel and I decided to pursue it. That job really launched my AV career. From there, I took on roles at production companies, as a designer and technician, and in the rental and staging industry before my current role as training and education manager at Panasonic Projector & Display Americas.
CI: What was your first big lesson in your career?
Kuschel: A mentor early in my career told me the key to success is the willingness to do what others can’t or won’t do. Since then, that advice has inspired me to continue pushing myself to take on projects that may seem challenging or impossible at first.
For instance, early in my career, I was assigned to lead some high-profile sports events. At first, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for that kind of responsibility, but I chose to tackle the challenge head-on.
The risk ended up paying off; I was able to rapidly improve my skills on that job and establish myself as someone who could and would take the lead on similar big projects in the future.
CI: What skills are essential for a successful AV career?
Kuschel: Beyond the foundational technical skills, I’ve found that handling the day-to-day realities of AV comes down to people skills, critical thinking and the ability to troubleshoot. Working in this industry, we know it’s inevitable for something to go wrong when you’re coordinating an event or setting up an office space, but your success depends on how you approach these situations. That’s what people will remember and respect you for.
CI: How have you grown your career in AV?
Kuschel: Throughout my career I’ve developed the skill of explaining complicated technical concepts to people in simple terms. That’s not always easy in this industry where the technology workflows can get complex. Thankfully, the positions I’ve held have given me the opportunity to get hands on with technology and see how it fits into productions. Now, I approach these situations with the mindset: “How could I teach this to someone else? How can I explain this to others?” which prepared me well for my current role at Panasonic where I guide the development of technical training materials for customers.
CI: What are the best resources for AV professionals?
Kuschel: One of my favorite resources is the learning sessions offered by AVIXA. They provide a great foundational knowledge for those beginning work in the AV industry.
CI: How can someone transition into AV from another field?
Kuschel: My advice is always to network with AV professionals to learn about their work. There are so many opportunities across the industry to build on the experience you already have from other fields. I once worked with a student who made the switch to AV after serving as a climbing guide on Mt. Everest – it’s never impossible to make the transition!
CI: What advice would you give to newcomers in the industry?
I would advise any newcomers to look, listen and ask questions whenever they can. This goes for work-related gatherings as well as personal activities like attending a concert.
AV professionals are everywhere and open to sharing their knowledge. If you pay attention to what is going on and who is doing what at an event, ask those AV professionals about their work.
Once you find your niche skill or interest in the industry, capitalize on it and continue to grow throughout your career.
CI: Anything else you’d like to share?
Kuschel: The AV industry is a hidden gem. People don’t often realize there’s a diverse industry behind the productions and experiences they enjoy every day.
One of my favorite parts of working in the industry is that every project is slightly different.
Those who join the field typically aren’t confined to a cubicle. They have the opportunity to solve fun and engaging challenges each day, making for a unique career experience.
As an industry, we’re always excited to welcome newcomers looking to explore these possibilities!
Stay tuned with Commercial Integrator as we continue to gather insights from AV professionals. If you’d like to be featured, contact our editorial team (Alyssa Borelli, Amala Reddie or Dan Ferrisi).
