At this year’s Total Tech Summit on Nov. 10-12 in Orlando, Fla., CE Pro Executive Editor Zachary Comeau will moderate two sessions that shine a light on the qualities shaping the next generation of leadership in the custom integration industry: humility, collaboration, and empathy.
These discussions—“The Power of Humility and Peer Learning” and “Working with High-Net-Worth Clients: Landing and Managing $1M+ Projects”—invite integrators to think beyond technology and explore what it truly takes to build thriving, human-centered businesses in a high-pressure, high-expectation market.
The Power of Humility and Peer Learning
In an industry often defined by innovation and competition, this panel reframes humility as a source of strength. Veteran integrators will share stories of how mentorship, collaboration, and vulnerability have fueled growth—not only in their businesses but also in their leadership approach.
Panelists include Adam Zell of Boston Automations, Eddie Bloom of Entertainment Design Group, and Keith Harrison of Total Home.
Panelists will discuss how being willing to admit what they don’t know has opened doors to new partnerships, created more resilient teams, and fostered a culture of continuous learning. Attendees can expect practical takeaways for leveraging peer networks, learning from setbacks, and cultivating humility as a business asset rather than a weakness.
Working with High-Net-Worth Clients
The second session takes a closer look at what it means to operate at the top of the luxury residential market, where projects often exceed $1 million and expectations reach equally lofty heights.
Panelists include Matt Emmi of OneButton, Shad Bethke of Denizen, and Glen Keoghan of Lightworks.
Integrators who have successfully navigated this space will discuss how to earn and maintain trust with ultra-high-net-worth clients, where communication, discretion, and consistency matter as much as design and performance. The conversation will also explore the complex interpersonal dynamics at play in these projects—balancing the vision of architects and designers with the personalities and priorities of clients accustomed to perfection.
Building Better Leaders Through Connection
Together, these panels embody the spirit of Total Tech Summit—a forum not just for technological excellence, but for leadership growth and authentic connection. Whether the topic is humility among peers or mastering the nuances of luxury clientele, both sessions aim to help integrators evolve as leaders, collaborators, and trusted partners in a rapidly changing industry.
