I was about halfway through writing an editor’s note about the 40 Women to Watch (W2W) for 2025, but I figured it would just be more of the same: a man writing about women’s issues. So, I passed the baton to Katye McGregor Bennet, a 2024 W2W honoree and a selection committee member.
Here’s what Katye has to say:
Let’s just go ahead and say it—this group rocks. The 40 Women to Watch (W2W) for 2025, featured in this special CE Pro spotlight, are not only remarkable in their own right, they’re collectively helping to shape the future of the professional smart home and systems integration channel. And I, for one, am thrilled to see them getting the recognition they deserve.
Some of the names on this year’s list will be familiar—they’ve been in the trenches, leading teams, building businesses, launching brands, innovating like mad, and mentoring others for years, though they may be new to your radar. What makes the Women to Watch (W2W) program special is the mix of tenured pros and rising stars, each one bringing something unique to the conversation, the craft, and the community we share.
This blend of experience and fresh energy is exactly what our industry needs. Because technology continues to evolve faster than a teenager’s TikTok preferences, we need every ounce of insight, instinct and innovative thinking we can get.
The 2025 W2W list reflects that—talent that spans roles, brands, regions and backgrounds, but shares one common thread: each of these women is making waves, moving the needle and making the industry better in the process.
On a personal note—and with hand on heart—I’m still a little blown away to be included in the inaugural CE Pro Women to Watch list. It’s an honor that I hold close, not just because of what it represents, but because of the incredible company I get to keep among this growing group of dynamic, driven and wildly talented women.
It’s also been a true privilege to be part of this year’s W2W Selection and Celebration Committee. Reading the nominations (which were plentiful and powerfully written), discussing each nominee with the committee, and seeing the final list come together was equal parts exhilarating and humbling.
We’ll be celebrating the 2025 Women to Watch in person at CEDIA Expo in Denver, and I’ll be hosting a Smart Stage session on Friday, Sept. 5, at 4p.m., focused on this year’s honorees and the broader vision for the program.
I sincerely hope you’ll join me for what promises to be a meaningful, inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the many ways women are shaping the future of our industry. Keep an eye on CE Pro for the full Smart Stage schedule, including the date and time of the W2W discussion.
And while I have you here, please plan to attend the Smart Stage programming throughout the show. These sessions are where some of the best takeaways, real talk, and industry intel happen—not to mention a healthy dose of inspiration. Plus, it’s a great place to meet and support people who genuinely care about pushing this channel forward.
To the 2025 W2W honorees: Bravo. Brava. Thank you for the work you do, the passion you bring, and the example you set. You are seen, celebrated, and appreciated more than words can say.
See you in Denver!
