Decoding Myths About the AV Industry and “AV guys”

To someone on the outside, the audiovisual industry may be totally cloaked in mystique. What counts as technology? Is AV similar to IT? Is this industry just a group of old guys, showing up with speakers and cables? Well, we’re here to shed some light on things you might not know about this industry, separate some stereotypes from reality, and decode some myths about the AV industry using data on demographics, education, paths into the industry, working styles, and future trends shaping AV.

Myth #1: AV is just “plugging In cables”

While we don’t think anyone who has seen the amount of equipment required for an event setup would think this work doesn’t require much training, we do want to decode the myth of what skills are valuable in this field. Hard skills like technical training are a given, but skills like creative problem-solving and communication are a vital blend for AV professionals.

📊 While data shows that education levels for AV roles vary, the majority of technicians and AV specialists hold higher education credentials: for example, about 53% of AV technicians and 57% of AV specialists have a bachelor’s degree, with significant portions holding associate degrees as well. (Source: Zippia)

But don’t be led to think that a degree is what makes a great technician- that comes with experience. Our industry is flexible with many different entry points: some start by supporting their high school productions, taking some stagehand gigs at local venues, or engaging with trainings that can be supplemented with hands-on experience. A global AV survey even found a good amount of professionals’ academic backgrounds don’t always align with traditional tech pathways. (Source: AVIXA Xchange)

Side note: we periodically offer trainings and resources for people looking to increase their audiovisual skill sets. Sign up to be notified when one is coming up!

The final verdict: Formal education definitely doesn’t hurt, but practical experience and lifelong learning often make just as much difference.

Myth #2: The AV Industry is for one kind of person

Depending on your vantage point, you could think that this industry is either dominated by energetic young people or by old guys who have been doing it for 40 years.

📊 Looking at the data, it is true that our industry skews older. Among AV technicians and related roles in the U.S., about 54% are over 40 years old, while about 31% are in their 30s and just 16% in their 20s. The data also says that women only make up about 9% of this industry. (Source: Zippia)

We (and great organizations like Sound Girls) are all in on diversifying this industry, which is why we consistently offer internships for local college students and younger folks looking to get some hands-on experience, and prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in our hiring practices.

Skills-wise, there are plenty of roles to be played in this industry, like: the technical troubleshooter who networks systems and masters gear, the creative technician designing your stage lighting or immersive media, the producer orchestrating teams and ensuring everything runs well, or the client-facing project manager combining technology literacy with interpersonal skills to manage expectations and explain solutions.

The final verdict: The AV industry is for everyone, even if it hasn’t always been that way. The gaps in demographics point for a need across the board for mentorship, knowledge transfer, and intentional opportunities for people in underrepresented groups.

Myth #3: The AV industry is stuck in the past 

Nothing could be further from the truth. While there are definitely the players who are committed to doing things the way they’ve always done it, the future of this industry is creative, optimistic, and technologically limitless.

Industry forecasts project that the global AV market will grow toward $400+ billion in the next several years, driven by digital transformation, immersive tech, and experience-focused solutions. (Source: AVNation TV)

Plus, AV is no longer just audio and screens (was it ever, though?). It intersects with IT networks, interactive media, smart buildings, virtual collaboration tech, AR/VR, and more. The career and technology possibilities are endless.

As demand grows, there’s increasing focus on industry-specific training, e-learning, and certifications that bridge the gap between formal education and real job skills. Pair this with pushes toward greater inclusion, especially for women and underrepresented groups, and this industry is on track to be even more accessible.