01.05.2009 — FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The Electronic Systems Professional Alliance (ESPA) rotated its committee positions and appointed Kerry Moyer, senior director, strategic relations, with the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), as its new chairman for 2009.

Moyer previously was the secretary of ESPA's board. Former Chairman Don Gilpin, executive director of the Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA), moves to the treasurer position on ESPA's board. Executive Director Chuck Wilson of the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) moves from treasurer to secretary of the ESPA board.

"The board under Don's leadership in 2008 and Chuck's leadership ion 2007 has done tremendous work in getting ready for the launch of the ESPA Certified-EST course and exam," said Grant Mydland, executive director of ESPA. "Kerry now will lead us into our critical launch phase, our activities at the Electronic House Expo (EHX) this spring, and as we develop curriculum with secondary and post-secondary schools this year. I thank all three of them for their drive, vision, and help in preparing ESPA for the opportunities that lie ahead."

During his 14-year tenure with CEA, Moyer has served as director of product divisions and senior director of industry programs. He was instrumental in the PARA and TechHome mergers with CEA. Moyer also has more than 19 years of retail sales and management experience. Before joining CEA, he served as vice president of advertising and promotions at Audio Associates, a Washington, D.C. area specialty audio-video dealer providing custom installation, sales and service for the home and car.

Formed by the CEA, CEDIA and NSCA, ESPA lays the groundwork for a career-ready technology workforce. The ESPA Certified-EST tests a technician candidate's understanding of industry basics and is a true indicator of whether or not the technician is prepared for an electronic systems career.

Because ESPA is open to any and all electronics organizations, it has potential to become the common denominator for millions of workers seeking higher-wage technical careers. Plus the ESPA training and certification helps broaden the skills of current technicians, allowing residential companies to look to the commercial arena and vice-versa as they expand their businesses. This cross-pollination of technicians also helps companies work in different sectors such as structured wiring, distributed audio and video, satellite, theater rooms, lighting, security and life safety systems and automation controls.

The ESPA Certified-EST covers five key domains: electrical basics; tools; construction methods and materials; wiring and installation practices; and standards, codes, and safety practices. Candidates can find out more about the program at http://www.espa.org and register for the course and exam within CEDIA's educational track at http://www.ehexpo.com.