The Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA) just wrapped up its Fall Conference for 2024, but it seems the buying group still has plenty to say for its consortium of members. Steven Rissi, perhaps known by most for his recent position at CEDIA, has joined HTSA’s leadership team as the Director of Technical Education and Development.

As Director, Rissi’s responsibilities include leading the creation, implementation, and continuous improvement of HTSA’s technical training and technical professional and workforce development programs.

“We’re excited to welcome a professional of Steven Rissi’s caliber to our team as Director of Technical Education and Development,” shared Jon Robbins, Executive Director of HTSA.

“Steve’s CEDIA background and expertise in technical instruction, along with Keith Esterly’s direction as Chief Learning Architect, will further enhance HTSA’s ability to meet the evolving needs of our Members, as we continue to offer world-class learning and growth opportunities.”

A Look into the History of Steven Rissi Before HTSA

Rissi began his career as an installation technician in 2001. He has vast experience in store management, technical training, client services and other positions in addition to installation. Altogether, Steven spent more than nine years in training management with CEDIA, has written two industry-related textbooks and several related articles, and was instrumental in HTSA’s 2024 centralized technical training instruction.

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“As an educator I have a deep passion for helping others improve in their job functions by developing the knowledge and skills necessary for technical development and advancement,” Rissi said.

“I have long admired HTSA’s laser-focused approach to 360-degree, innovative education, and I’m thrilled to be on the team at such an exciting time to contribute to the Members dynamic, bright future.”

Upon starting his role at HTSA, Rissi’s main initiatives will focus on the direct planning and development of technical training, content, webinars, computer-based, and live learning events, the creation of additional next-generation content in core high-impact areas for Dealers including Lighting and Power, and the provision of technology related content for HTSA’s Member magazine, blogs and industry articles.

HTSA’s Educational Initiatives Continue to Flourish

In 2024 alone, HTSA either hosted or sponsored 20 major industry educational events for its members. Most of these events spanned multiple days and some (like Lightapalooza) were offered to the industry at large.

More recently, the group hosted Generative AI Business Transformation and FURLS Management to Lighting Design events, as  Technical Training and Business Development Summits, with special emphasis being placed on AI business development and lighting education by the group.

Rissi, noted Tom Doherty, Director of Technology Initiatives for HTSA, will be instrumental in further expanding those opportunities as the years progress.

“Steven Rissi is already known and well-respected by HTSA Members. The fact that he was associated with CEDIA and part of our 2024 lineup underscores the depth of his knowledge of the industry and our Members’ needs and will immediately add value to our training programs,” Doherty stated directly.

“Steve’s expertise in technical education will bring even more power to meet the needs of our members, allowing us to serve them better than ever before. It’s a great pleasure to welcome him on board.”

HTSA will soon share educational plans for 2025, including additional technical content and training. Members can expect to see an even more aggressive schedule as it unfolds, although, non-members can presently get a peak at what’s coming up for this year’s Lightapalooza.

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