HETMA Presents...

Recorded on-site amid the bustle of the HETMA Nashville Roadshow at Vanderbilt University, this month’s roundtable trades polished studio quiet for real-world energy and candid conversation. Ryan sits down with Chris Kelly (Creighton University; HETMA Advisory Board Chair), Rebecca Wade (Igloo Vision), and Scott Ramsayer (Shure, Market Development) to ask a simple prompt with big implications: one year from now, what will feel genuinely different in higher-ed AV? The group wrestles with AI’s real value versus the hype, where automation helps (and where it doesn’t), and why human-centered assessment and experiential learning should keep pushing forward. The panel moves from AI skepticism to pragmatic adoption—using AI to speed routine work or coding, while keeping humans responsible for outcomes—and calls out a cautionary tale about replacing people without oversight. They also explore the shift from passive work (and passive learning) to active, human experiences: think voice-enabled control, hands-on tech spaces, and authentic demonstrations of learning (e.g., recorded podcasts) instead of easily AI-generated essays. The episode closes with October-appropriate fun and a quick save-the-date: a HETMA Roadshow at Creighton University in Omaha is planned for July 9, 2026.Topics DiscussedOn-site recording at Vanderbilt University during the HETMA Nashville Roadshow. Intros: Chris Kelly (Creighton; HETMA Advisory Board Chair), Rebecca Wade (Igloo Vision), Scott Ramsayer (Shure).“AI reality check”: less magic, more useful automation—benefits with clear limits. Where automation helps AV teams (auto-DSP/auto-tune) vs. why humans still matter on site. Coding assist: using AI for Python/Lua snippets to “punch above your weight.” Oversight matters: a pointed example of AI-driven decisions going wrong without humans in the loop. Radical acceptance in higher ed: students already use AI; pedagogy must adapt. Experiential learning: prioritize authentic demonstrations over AI-generable essays. Near-term hopes: more voice-enabled control and fewer logistical/Cost barriers for advanced tech installs. Roadshow note: Creighton University in Omaha targeted for July 9, 2026.Host: Ryan GrayEmail: editor@higheredav.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagrayWebsite: https://www.HigherEdAV.comGuests: Chris Kelly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-kelly-272155122/Rebecca Wade LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-wade-979094154/Scott Ramsayer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ramsayer-71167824/This show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media. Visit www.HigherEdAV.com for new content every day.

HETMA Board Chair and host Erin Maher-Moran sits down with Troy Powers, Vice Chair of HETMA and Director at Northwestern University, to trace his path from construction electrician to higher-ed AV leader, and why he believes education is the long-game solution to society’s toughest problems. Troy reflects on mission, basic research, and why higher ed doesn’t always get credit for world-changing innovations—then unpacks how he found his leadership lane inside HETMA.   October’s theme, “Road Work Ahead: Handling Failure,” comes alive through Troy’s unvarnished recap of the rain-soaked Northwestern Roadshow—complete with flooded tents, a late-night pig roast setup, and a dawn-of-day pivot that moved the entire showcase indoors in about an hour. He shares practical, pressure-tested lessons on making fast decisions, owning outcomes, and “being a goldfish” so the team can move forward. The conversation closes with HETMA’s ambitions to deepen sponsor–member connections and continue expanding globally, plus how to plug into the community now.     Topics DiscussedFrom electrician to higher-ed technologist: George Mason to Northwestern. Why the higher-ed mission matters (and under-marketed wins from basic research). Entry into HETMA leadership and stepping up when roles are undefined.   Chair/Vice-Chair dynamics and HETMA’s collaborative leadership culture. The Northwestern Roadshow: plans, downpour, flooded tent, and the indoor pivot. Outcomes: 198 signups, ~140 attendees—the most to date despite the weather. Decision-making under pressure and owning consequences. Delegation as a learned leadership muscle. “Be a goldfish”: resilience, recovery, and not dwelling on mistakes. What’s next: deeper sponsor–member connections and global expansion. Connect with Erin and Troy on the HETMA CommunityJoin Today: community.hetma.orgThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media.Visit www.HigherEdAV.com for new content every day.

In this episode, Erin Maher-Moran interviews Brittney Grant, the chair of HETMA's Approved Program Committee. Brittney shares her unexpected journey into higher education technology, which began with her involvement in high school theater and later at her church's tech team. After working in various fields like healthcare and manufacturing, she returned to live events. The COVID-19 pandemic led to her being one of three people running the entire venue. This experience, along with her role as the SGA’s VP of F&O at Aims Community College, helped her realize her passion for live events and process-oriented work. She applied for a job at Aims after graduating and has been there for three years. The Importance of Process Brittney emphasizes that her current role at Aims has been a significant learning experience, as there were almost no existing processes when she started. She had to learn everything the hard way, and she and her team are still working to establish and define systems. She likens the situation to "reorganizing the train at full speed," which is a challenging but necessary task. She also discusses the importance of having a balance between structure and flexibility in her work and personal life. She highlights the need to "take a step back" and "let the chips fall" when faced with setbacks, and she advises listeners that it's okay to fail and learn from the experience. The HETMA Approved Program Brittney explains that the Approved Program provides a service to evaluate technology products through the lens of higher education tech managers. This evaluation helps both HETMA members and manufacturers by giving them confidence that a product is suitable for the higher education environment. She notes that the program is expanding beyond hardware to include software. Brittney's goal is to improve the program's efficiency and communication by implementing clearer organizational processes and encouraging more HETMA members to participate as evaluators. She believes that a diverse group of evaluators is crucial for providing a comprehensive and accurate assessment of products. She ends the discussion by reiterating that building successful systems involves trial and error and the ability to adapt. She believes that the Approved Program will continue to evolve and serve the community better as more people get involved.  Topics Discussed:     Brittney's Unconventional Career Path     The Importance of Defined Processes     What the HETMA Approved Program Does     The Challenge of Managing Expectations and People     The Value of Trial and Error Connect with Brittney Grant HETMA Approved Program Chair, Aims Community College – Audio Visual Specialist E-mail: approvedprogram@hetma.org LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brittneymgrant Instagram: @btforhim Join the Conversation We want to hear from you! Share your reflections, questions, or connection stories in the HETMA community at community.hetma.org. Whether you’re new to the space or a long-time member, your voice matters—and this is the month to merge lanes and grow together.

Today on HETMA Presents..., Ryan sits down with David Lopez, Global Director of Education Strategy at ScreenBeam, to unpack how wireless display has evolved from a convenience feature to a core building block for learning spaces. David traces the roots from Intel WiDi and Miracast to today’s multi-OS reality (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome) and explains why standards-based casting still matters for scale, support, and security. From there, the discussion widens: what higher ed actually needs beyond “put your screen on the wall,” how to ensure a consistent user experience across rooms, and the operational wins when faculty aren’t fighting drivers and dongles.They also cover the bigger ecosystem: USB conferencing that lets BYOD laptops use in-room cameras and mics via ScreenBeam Conference; the receiver as a platform (Signage Plus, Alert Plus, Message Manager) for communications and light digital signage; and practical install touches like compact form factors and magnetic mounting. Looking ahead, David talks instruction-focused tools—whiteboarding that plays nicely with laptops, and moderation workflows (e.g., Orchestrate) that shine in labs and active-learning spaces. The through-line: simple, reliable, and IT-manageable experiences that lower friction for instructors and support teams.Topics DiscussedWhy standards (Miracast/AirPlay/Chromecast) still underpin reliable, multi-platform casting in higher edFrom “wireless display” to “platform on the display”: signage, alerts, and message managementBYOD without the pain: using room cameras/mics with a laptop via USB conferencing (ScreenBeam Conference)Designing for a consistent end-user experience across rooms and buildingsAdmin/management considerations at scale: profiles, groups, updates, and security postureHardware realities: small receivers, flexible power, clean mounting (including magnets)Teaching workflows: inking/whiteboard, annotating, and quick walk-up sharingModeration in labs/active learning: when “raise-hand to share” (Orchestrate) makes sense in higher edDeployment tips: avoiding driver roulette, reducing help-desk calls, and planning for mixed OS fleetsRoadmap mindset: treating the receiver as an extensible edge device for campus communicationsJoin the ConversationWant to weigh in or share your campus approach? Join the discussion at community.hetma.org.Connect with DavidEmail: dlopez@screenbeam.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlopez-edtech/Website: www.ScreenBeam.comConnect with RyanEmail: editor@higheredav.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/Website: www.HigherEdAV.comThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media.  Visit www.HigherEdAV.com for new content every day.

September’s Road to 10K digs into how positive, repeatable habits become the engine of team culture and performance. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Brian Shanks (Texas State University), Annie Foster (Washington and Lee University; HETMA Secretary), and Steve Greenblatt (Control Concepts) to swap practical frameworks: stacking habits so one triggers the next, using “alerts” to spot when you’re slipping, replacing the old “just get it done” reflex with “get it done right,” and gamifying quality through commissioning and scoring handoffs between integration and support. The group keeps outcomes at the center and treats process as a living system—iterated, owned, and measured.  They also get into the leadership moves that make habits stick: start with trust, invite fresh eyes to question sacred cows, sell the vision (don’t just demand it), and build internal champions who keep momentum when attention shifts. Steve introduces EOS-style Level 10 rhythms as a repeatable structure for reviewing goals and metrics, while Brian and Annie show how empowerment at the “lowest level” creates real buy-in. It’s a timely, practical blueprint for September’s theme—Build a System—so your team can thrive when crunch time hits.  Topics DiscussedHabit stacking and using “alerts” to course-correct early.  Turning “get it done” culture into “get it done right” quality.  Commissioning + scoring spaces to close the loop between integration and support.  Trust first: empowering teams to solve problems at the lowest level.  Giving new hires permission to challenge the “agreed-upon way.”  Selling the vision vs. micromanaging; building champions of consistency.  Using cadence (e.g., EOS Level 10) to keep outcomes front-and-center.  Personal habit hacks: accountability, tiny disciplines, and rewards.  When habits become liabilities—recognizing and retiring outdated routines.  Mission → buy-in → habits → outcomes: aligning people systems like AV systems.  Connect with Brian ShanksEmail: brianshanks@txstate.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shanks-06428b36/Connect with Annie FosterEmail: afoster@wlu.edu  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankneefoster/  Connect with Steve Greenblatthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stevegreenblatt/https://controlconcepts.nethttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-programmer/id1561530169https://www.avnation.tv/a-state-of-control/Join the ConversationJump into the monthly thread: https://community.hetma.orgShow Links:HETMA Community: https://community.hetma.orgHigher Ed AV Media: https://higheredav.comThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media - www.higheredav.comFeedback: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a message on the HETMA Community or email any of the hosts and guests directly. Want to be featured in a future episode? Let us know—your voice matters.

In this August edition of This Month in Higher Ed AV, host Ryan Gray is joined by Andy Vogel (The Ohio State University), Ann Kelly (UCLA), and Tim Neviska (Kenyon College) for a lively, insightful, and layered conversation about three timely pieces shaping the AV/IT landscape in higher education.The panel opens with a discussion of “The Cloud Revolution in Pro AV: Why the Future is Software-Defined” by Richard Jonker, Vice President at NETGEAR Enterprise. The group digs into the implications of cloud-managed AV systems, the role of interoperability, and whether higher ed AV teams are ready—or willing—to give up traditional notions of control.Read the article ➝ https://www.avnetwork.com/news/the-cloud-revolution-in-pro-av-why-the-future-is-software-definedNext, Andy shares his own article, “Why Validating AI Matters”, kicking off his new column for Higher Ed AV Media. He walks the group through real-world examples of testing AI tools (including to learn bass guitar), and the panel discusses how institutions are managing AI implementation—from fluency courses to faculty debates about academic integrity.Read the article ➝https://higheredav.com/ai-insights-with-andy-why-validating-ai-matters/Finally, the group explores Tim’s personal essay “My Take: InfoComm 2019 to 2025,” which compares his first InfoComm experience to his recent return six years later. The conversation becomes a powerful reflection on professional visibility, industry inclusion, and the collective strength of higher ed voices in a rapidly changing AV world.Read the article ➝https://higheredav.com/my-take-infocomm-2019-to-2025/If you want to hear how AV/IT trends meet real campus practice—and what it means to belong in this space—this is the episode for you.Topics DiscussedCloud-managed AV systems and institutional readinessInteroperability vs. proprietary ecosystemsHigher ed AV’s evolving relationship with enterprise ITAI validation techniques in learning and operationsFaculty perspectives on generative AICritical thinking and student use of AIInfoComm 2019 vs. 2025: personal growth and industry changeHETMA’s role in raising higher ed’s profileSmall institutions and collective influenceThe emotional and strategic value of showing upGuests:Andy VogelEmail: communications@hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-vogelAnn KellyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annkelly9/Tim NeviskaEmail: membership@hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-neviska-875b331b/Host:Ryan GrayLinkedIn: Email: ryan@higheredav.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/Show Links:HETMA Community: https://community.hetma.orgHigher Ed AV Media: https://higheredav.comThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media - www.higheredav.comFeedback:We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a message on the HETMA Community or email any of the hosts and guests directly. Want to be featured in a future episode? Let us know—your voice matters.

In this August installment of HETMA Presents… Chair to Chair, Board Chair Erin Maher-Moran sits down with Membership Chair Tim Neviska of Kenyon College for an honest and uplifting conversation about professional growth, connection, and finding your place in higher ed AV. What starts as a chat about committee work quickly turns into a deeply relatable story about career pivots, introversion, and the quiet power of being seen.Tim shares how he stumbled into AV from a DJ career, built a reputation as the go-to person at Kenyon College, and found his professional tribe in HETMA. The conversation is full of useful advice for anyone wondering how to get more involved—whether you’re shy, new to the industry, or just feeling unsure of where to start. From smart onboarding strategies to tales of budget-savvy ingenuity, Tim models what it looks like to lead with humility and impact.Whether you’re one of HETMA’s 3,000+ members or still on the fence about joining, this episode will remind you that real growth doesn’t happen in isolation—and that sometimes, all it takes is reaching out to someone who “gets it.”Topics DiscussedHow Tim first discovered HETMA through AVNation’s Rave LaunchServing as the go-to AV lead at a small liberal arts collegeBecoming a recognizable campus presence through live event supportHETMA’s unique free-to-join model and its impact on inclusionWhat the Membership Chair actually does (beyond counting heads)The importance of onboarding and lowering barriers for new membersWhy professional relationships are built one small ask at a timeHow to grow your network even if you’re introvertedThe value of smaller events like roadshows before InfoCommTips for getting involved, staying connected, and paying it forwardTim NeviskaMembership Chair, HETMASenior Audiovisual Solutions Manager, Kenyon College📧 Email: membership@hetma.org🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-neviskaJoin the ConversationWe want to hear from you! Share your reflections, questions, or connection stories in the HETMA community at community.hetma.org. Whether you’re new to the space or a long-time member, your voice matters—and this is the month to merge lanes and grow together.

In this second installment of HETMA Presents… The Road to 10K, host Ryan Gray is joined by three incredible guests—Tim Albright (AVNation), Britt Yenser (Northampton Community College), and Chris Dieterich (Biamp)—to explore August’s theme: Merging Lanes – Connect to Grow. The conversation is personal, practical, and full of insight, emphasizing that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Whether you’re building a network, stepping into mentorship, or learning to show up for others in meaningful ways, this episode will give you both encouragement and a push.The guests share honest reflections about introversion, career shifts, and how networking and mentorship have shaped their journeys. They also offer actionable advice for anyone looking to get more involved, connect more deeply, or help others rise. From small steps to big jumps, this is a conversation about growing yourself by growing with others.Guest Contact Info:Tim AlbrightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdalbright/Email: tim@avnation.tvWebsite: https://avnation.tvBritt YenserLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/X (Twitter): https://x.com/brAVe_britt_BlueSky: https://blueskydirectory.com/profiles/bravebritt.bsky.socialChris DieterichLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-dieterich-cts-cqd-22843190/Topics DiscussedThe power of building a professional network before you “need” itHow introverts can thrive in public roles and community spacesBritt’s strategy for authentic connection via social mediaWhy mentorship is broader than your job title or experience levelChris’s leap from higher ed to industry—and what he’s learning alreadyDelegation as a form of trust and a way to help others growRepresentation, inclusion, and creating space for others to be seenWhy being genuine doesn’t require full transparencyThe role of books and asynchronous mentors in personal growthPractical advice for expanding your network with intentionJoin the conversation and grow with us—visit community.hetma.org to connect with fellow members, share your takeaways, or ask follow-up questions to today’s guests. The Road to 10K continues with monthly themes, powerful discussions, and a community that shows up.This show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media, visit us at www.higheredav.com for more great content.Connect with Ryan:Ryan@higheredav.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/

This debut episode of This Month in Higher Ed AV kicks off a monthly panel discussion reviewing key content posted to Higher Ed AV Media. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Jon Gunzel of John A. Logan College, Renee Benson of Sony Professional Display Solutions, and Erin Maher-Moran, Chair of HETMA from Johns Hopkins University. Together, they explore major trends and insights shaping the higher ed AV landscape, all grounded in fresh articles and columns.The discussion dives into HETMA’s Road to 10K membership growth campaign, which aims to expand global engagement through community initiatives and professional development. The panel also breaks down Sony’s partnership with LiquidView and its innovative use of Pro Bravia displays to create virtual windows, opening possibilities for immersive learning and wellness spaces. Finally, the episode examines DSPs in the Classroom and how practical audio design principles can dramatically improve learning experiences. Listeners will hear industry perspectives, implementation ideas, and authentic reflections on how these topics connect to AV’s role in higher education.https://higheredav.com/breaking-news-hetma-announces-road-to-10k/https://higheredav.com/sonys-pro-bravia-displays-help-liquidview-turn-blank-walls-into-realistic-windows-to-the-worldsony-at-infocomm-2025-tracking-the-future-of-lecture-capture-sony/https://higheredav.com/dsps-in-the-classroom-under-the-hood-of-smarter-sound-sound-perspectives/Guest Contacts:Jon Gunzel – jonathan.gunzel@jalc.edu, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgunzel89/Renee Benson – renee.benson@sony.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneebenson/Erin Maher-Moran – https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-maher-moran/Topics DiscussedLaunch of This Month in Higher Ed AV as a monthly seriesOverview of HETMA’s Road to 10K membership campaign and six strategic pillarsCommunity-building approaches for higher ed AV professionalsSony Pro Bravia displays powering LiquidView virtual windowsApplications of virtual windows in education and wellness spacesBack-to-basics DSP best practices from Teddy Murphy’s Sound Perspectives columnAudio quality as a foundation for hybrid learning and clear communicationPanel perspectives from higher ed, manufacturing, and association leadershipUpcoming Higher Ed AV Media content, including Chair to Chair and new AI-focused columnsReflections on how AV professionals can leverage industry content for growthJoin the conversation and connect with the community at community.hetma.org.HETMA Presents... is a production of Higher Ed AV Media.  Check out all our content at higheredav.com

In this inaugural installment of HETMA Presents… Chair to Chair, host Erin Maher-Moran, Chair of the HETMA Board of Directors, sits down with Chris Kelly of Creighton University and Advisory Boards Chair of HETMA. The conversation dives into Chris’s unique journey from social work and counseling into higher education technology, exploring how his early experiences shaped his leadership style and passion for building community.Listeners will hear how advisory boards create meaningful connections between manufacturers and higher education institutions, why involvement is open to everyone—from entry-level techs to campus leaders—and how these conversations advance HETMA’s mission of innovation and collaboration. Chris also shares insights on leadership, personal growth, and finding your “true north” while reflecting on how higher ed technology impacts students, faculty, and the future of learning.Erin introduces Chair to Chair and its mission to spotlight HETMA committee leadersChris Kelly’s journey from social work into IT and AV technologyThe shift from programming frustration to embracing technology’s broader potentialSurprises and learning curves entering higher education AVThe purpose and structure of HETMA advisory boardsAdvisory boards as a platform for collaboration with manufacturers and peersLeadership lessons drawn from social work and campus IT experiencesPersonal mission, future vision, and the value of lifelong learningAdvice for those seeking their own “true north” in higher ed technology careersWhy every professional, regardless of role, benefits from participating in HETMA programsJoin the conversation at community.hetma.org and subscribe to HETMA Presents… wherever you get podcasts or watch on YouTube.HETMA Presents... is a production of Higher Ed AV Media, learn more a higheredav.com

In the premiere episode of HETMA Presents, the leadership team kicks off the “Road to 10K” initiative with a candid, unscripted conversation about growth, purpose, and what success really looks like for the HETMA community. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Joe Way, BC Hatchett, and Troy Powers to explore the launch of HETMA’s new themed year—one focused not on sales or metrics, but on authentic personal and professional development across the higher ed AV vertical.This month’s theme, “True North: The Future of You,” asks members to reflect on their mission, their goals, and the values that guide their decisions. The group discusses the reasons behind the year-long framework, how engagement—not just membership—is the real target, and why doing the work themselves as volunteers matters deeply to the organization’s identity.Topics DiscussedThe origin and purpose of the “Road to 10K” initiativeHow the initiative represents a return to HETMA’s founding valuesThe difference between member count and active engagementMonthly themes as a structure for personal and community growthWhy AV isn’t the headline—and why that’s intentionalThe role of volunteerism in leadership developmentBuilding sustainable events and operational templatesCreating belonging through participation and shared workWhat “True North” means to each leaderHopes for how the community will grow by June 2026Continue the conversation at community.hetma.org