A lot has changed within the custom integration industry since it first got started, and for once I’m not talking about how home theaters and hi-fi systems have evolved into fully automated smart homes. I’m talking about how women have grown to play a much larger role in custom integration than in the beginning, and given that it’s National Women’s History Month, we figured now would be as good a time as any to celebrate that.

It was at this most recent Lightapalooza where the thought struck me. Founded primarily by hobbyists in home theater and hi-fi, custom integration was mostly a male dominated field to start–not unlike a lot of other STEM- and STEAM-based professions. Over the years, however, as groups like Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT) have worked to help draw attention to that deficit and cultural sentiments have shifted it has become a far more diverse space than what it used to be.

For that reason, we wanted to speak with women across the industry to ask them specifically: What is it like to be a woman in the custom integration industry today? What has your experience been like over the years? And what do you think can help continue the growth and momentum that has brought the industry to where we are today?

Below are several interviews with both custom integration veterans and newcomers assembled in no particular order and graciously compiled by Cat Toomey (who I also asked to include her own thoughts given her legacy within the industry).

Amanda Wildman

Time in industry/current role: Owner with my husband for 20+ years

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Roles/Accolades: Owner, TruMedia, Michigan and Vice-Chair, CEDIA Board of Directors and CIT-SME, IST-SME, ESC & Electrical Apprentice

What’s it like being in the custom integration industry as a woman now?

I think the CI industry is an EXCITING place for women!  Every event now seems to have an element created just to make sure we are welcomed and can gather and network. What was started over 15 years ago with Carol Campbell at a CEDIA Expo has become a ‘must have’ at other events too.

Just look at the recent luncheon that was hosted so generously by Tom Doherty and women involved at Lightapalooza. Not only did this create another great opportunity for all of us women to gather at the event, but he also introduced us to an entirely NEW group of industry adjacent women in the WILD group (Women In Lighting Design)! It was wonderful to learn about this organization and the connections we made there will, no doubt, create even more POWERFUL future collaborations!

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

Lightapalooza was a great opportunity to see this change, I was introduced to Tom’s daughter Ellie, and I even brought my own daughter, Morgan with me!  We’ve seen businesses getting their sons involved as the next generation in this industry, but we haven’t seen as many daughters. Maybe Heather Sidorowicz being one of the first in taking over her dad’s business, but now you have Tom and Ellie too and myself and Morgan and think we might be the first mother/daughter duo.

Seeing how the industry has welcomed her in and seeing her excitement for it makes me proud of how far our industry has come. She’s not the only woman in the class and she’s EXCITED to introduce me to new women in the industry that I haven’t even met yet! So, the list of us is getting even longer and more diverse!

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

We are moving in such a positive direction, but there is still more work to be done.  I feel like we are seeing more and more women, but they are still predominantly in sales or marketing roles.  I look forward to the day when we see more women in the CEO seat like Heather Sidorowicz, Jamie Briesemeister, Jen Mallett, Galia Ben-Dor, myself and Cat Toomey!

I also look forward to the day when I can count on more than just my two hands the number of women who are out in the field as technicians, like me. I acknowledge that breaking into this role can be particularly challenging for women in the industry, but I’m encouraged by the increasing number of women who are either pursuing this path or expressing interest in it and am happy to help. I couldn’t be prouder. I firmly believe that becoming a technician is a wonderful career choice brimming with opportunities, but it requires women who are willing to take a chance. Fortunately, our industry is filled with mentors, allies, and supporters who are ready to lend a helping hand along the way!

Ellie Doherty

Time in industry/current role:  14 years in the industry; 5 years with Powerfull Systems

Roles/Accolades: Director of Sales, Lighting, Powerfull Systems, Los Angeles

What’s it like being in the custom integration industry as a woman now?

It’s exciting to be a woman in the CI Channel right now. With Lighting as a newer and growing category for the industry, we have seen an influx of women over the last three years. It’s nice to not be the only woman at the table anymore and be a part of today and the future.

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

I’m not sure if it’s a coincidence that there are more women in the industry with the addition of Lighting, or if principals are intentionally looking for women to run their lighting divisions because of the design aspect. Maybe it’s a little bit of both. Either way, it helps to diversify our industry and bring new perspectives to our businesses. And women are great at design and aesthetics, but also can participate in every role in our industry including technical, project management and so much more.

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

The biggest issue in our industry has been an issue for a long time, and that is recruiting young people and spreading awareness that our industry exists and that it is a fulfilling and exciting career path. It would only benefit us to further expand our search beyond the stereotypical “tech-y guy” and look to recruit women and people of color.

Vanessa Sayen

Time in industry/current role:  24 years in the CI Industry; 8 years with LK & Associates

Roles/Accolades: Marketing Manager / Specifications, LK & Associates, Fort Lauderdale, FL

What’s it like being in the integration industry as a woman now?

In the CI industry, the landscape for women has evolved significantly. Today, there are more advancement and management opportunities available for women of all ages, marking a departure from the constraints of the past. Additionally, there’s a noticeable shift away from the taboo surrounding which jobs are deemed appropriate for women, fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Moreover, there’s a burgeoning network of hardworking women in CI, providing support and empowerment, further enhancing opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

Our industry is actively advancing towards gender equality by promoting diverse hiring practices and elevating the representation of women in decision-making roles within associations like CEDIA. Initiatives such as

Women in CE and Yoga for Women in CE not only provide invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities but also foster a sense of community and solidarity. Moreover, the growing trend of women supporting each other in the workplace is making a significant statement, further contributing to the industry’s progress towards inclusivity and empowerment.

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

As a Latina woman who entered the CI industry early in my career, I’ve observed the critical need for our industry to confront entrenched barriers linked to gender, race and diversity. To drive meaningful change, we must actively advocate for diversity in leadership roles through targeted mentorship programs and transparent career advancement pathways for women and minorities.

Furthermore, cultivating inclusive workplace cultures via comprehensive diversity training and awareness initiatives is essential to ensure every voice is respected and valued. By expanding our outreach efforts to educational institutions and communities beyond our industry, we can broaden accessibility and accelerate progress toward a more equitable and inclusive future.

Cat Toomey

Time in industry/current role: 33 years in industry; 8 years Owner/CEO of CATalyzing

Roles/Accolades: CEO/Owner CATalyzing, Co-Founder VideoMojo, Global Marketing Agency IN/ NY, CE Pro Master, Dealerscope 40 Under 40, AL Marketing Co. Honoree, CTA Past Board of Leaders, US Navy Aviation Electronics Technician

What’s it like being in the custom integration industry as a woman now?

We have come so far! When I started in this industry, I came from the US Navy in an engineering capacity at AMX, co-founding the Technical Research Department in Engineering. At that time, there were literally ZERO women in Engineering or tech roles; most were in HR, Admin, Marketing and some Sales Support.

I recall being at an early trade show where a man wanted technical help and refused to speak with me (only men in the booth), despite my being from Engineering with the knowledge. I pushed on, giving correct answers regardless, not realizing I was helping pave the early path for women. Growing up with four brothers, it was natural to me. It’s up to us to empower others. I think of women who’ve been on the journey alongside me ala Trisha Parks, Julie Jacobson, Helen Heneveld and many others.

CATalyzing is a 70+ Percent female company and I’m grateful now run a global Marketing Agency to help every technical business across our industry. It’s VERY inspiring to see women in all roles and events created for us to gather and celebrate our industry, while sharing ideas to continue progress. It’s also terrific seeing so many men join!

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

I’ve noticed more events, courses and photos include women than ever, and that’s exciting. Looking over the years, I realize just how far we’ve come. When I was on the CTA Board of Industry Leaders, there were about 3 women on it. Today, CTA has a new female President and more represented on the BIL. Recent trade shows reveal there are more women at the table, and we now see them in every role from technical to sales, design, leadership and ownership. I’m particularly enthusiastic to help other women start their own companies and be entrepreneurs, which will continue to change the dynamics of our industry thought leadership and show all that’s possible!

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

While we’re progressing, there is more work to be done. While we certainly see more women at events and in classes, we need to put more of them on panel discussions. Women have great ideas, knowledge and experiences to share and are our thought leaders also! And the same for people of color and other ethnic backgrounds. We’ve made strides for women, but addressing race and diversity is much harder. Looking around at panels and teachers, we can do more to lift all boats.

We need to be candid and address how women and diverse groups are treated at our shows. Recently, a top company in our industry hired a professional, smart women who has much to offer. Upon returning from a major show, she was taken aback at the open treatment and bias toward women and doesn’t want to return. I’ve heard this before. We’d do well to listen to diverse groups and understand what THEY observe as we may be desensitized. This will help everyone in our industry increase professionalism and be the best we can be.

I commend our women’s gatherings as significant steps forward. At the same time, I believe there’s an opportunity for us to engage in even more impactful, mentorship initiatives. Presently, I’m dedicated to crafting marketing strategies and programs targeted beyond our industry that demonstrate to young women, men, and diverse groups the outstanding opportunities and career paths we offer. Many individuals remain unaware of our industry’s potential, and it is incumbent upon us to rectify that. By embracing fresh, open-minded perspectives, we can enhance our industry overall. Not only will this enrich our overall industry and relationships, but the more reach and growth we’ll ALL enjoy!

Helen Heneveld

Time in industry/current role: 35 years

Roles/Accolades: CEO, PrepTECH, Michigan

What’s it like being in the custom integration industry as a woman now?

Back when I started, no one else was in the women’s restroom. 10+ years later, I saw a few women, and one time, I had a young tech tell me I was “gutsy” for being the only female leader. I told her my secret; I wear my “power underwear” and they have no idea when I’m at the front of the room teaching a class or on stage. Though I may still hear the statement heard many times over the years, “It scares me when Helen shows up with a tool belt on.” My advice to all female techs is, “Be sure you have a tool belt that makes a fashion statement!”

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

Two things are happening. First, more women are seeking non-traditional roles where they can use their creative minds, multi-tasking skills, work with their hands and embrace the technology they grew up with. Second, women are finally getting the respect and recognition they deserve across our industry at large. There are more female programs and awards. As the “Good old boys club” retire, young, smart males are bringing innate acceptance of women and progressive leadership styles, and I am thrilled to see this.

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

Initially, I believe society needs to forget stereotypes, expand their thinking on potential opportunities for training and work, and embrace the concept that almost everyone can perform nearly any job. Other good news is the industry has grown up and now offers viable careers with every-advancing learning and growth, but there’s still quite a bit of progress to be made.

The push for STEM and STEAM education builds awareness and opportunities within young people of all backgrounds, but it will take years for interested individuals to join the industry. Right now, leadership is the key to diversity, not just for women, but for every minority group.

We all need to work together and raise awareness, knowledge and our professionalism. Check out and join the free PRIME Community we’ve just launched to help share best practices, build successful tech teams and move the CI industry forward. ALL are welcome.

Chelsea Sylva

Time in industry/current role: 8 years with Sage AV

Roles/Accolades: Client Relationship Manager, Sage AV, NY

What’s it like being in the custom integration industry as a woman now?

In the CI industry today, being a woman means breaking barriers and reshaping narratives. It’s all about navigating a predominantly male-dominated industry with determination and expertise, while advocating for inclusivity and representation. Despite the challenges, it’s an empowering journey of innovation and collaboration, driving us towards a future where diversity thrives in every aspect of technology.

Where do you see our industry working on change and progression with respect to women and our history? 

I believe the industry is actively working towards change and progression by prioritizing diversity and inclusion initiative and creating equal opportunities for women. I feel there is a concerted effort towards developing inclusive technologies that cater to diverse user needs, ensuring accessibility and usability for all. We see a growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, with advancements in energy-efficient equipment and environmentally conscious AV and technology solutions.

Where you see that our industry has a need or opportunity to continue to change, where we have room for growth with respect to women and diversity?

We can continue to ensure women have equitable access and representation in leadership roles and technical fields. Embracing diverse perspectives not only enriches innovation but also expands market reach, driving sustainable growth and advancing social equity within the industry!

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