Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women to Lead in AV/IT by Focusing on Opportunities, Not Obstacles

By Brandy Alvarado-Miranda, CEO/Owner BAM! Marketing & PR Agency & WAVIT Founder

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I’m grateful to be able to present and network at a variety of tradeshows and events throughout the year. I get asked to be on panels and discuss challenges women face in this industry, and quite frankly, I’m over it when it comes to speaking about being in the minority.

Over the last few years, I’ve changed my focus from, “Whoa, is me. I’m a minority in this industry,” to “Yeah, I’m a woman, let’s talk tech!” I’ve made it a point not to discuss being marginalized, but rather focus on what “we” collectively bring to the table or focus on the opportunities versus the challenges. 

Yes, we face distinct challenges, but women continue to break ground and excel in their careers along the way. Whether it’s overcoming gender biases, navigating leadership roles, or finding one’s voice in critical moments, the journey is filled with both trials and triumphs. As a women’s association dedicated to empowering women in ProAV and IT, WAVIT believes in providing a platform for open dialogue, professional development, and strategies for overcoming these barriers.

Our upcoming Tech Brunch/Panel Discussion at the Digital Signage Experience, focused on women’s experiences in digital signage and AV/IT technology, will explore these themes in depth. This event will provide a valuable space for sharing insights, professional advice, and tools for career growth. Here are some essential strategies for women in the AV/IT industry to navigate their careers and break barriers, drawn from key themes that will be discussed during the event.

1. Recognizing and Addressing Challenges in the Workplace

For many women in the AV/IT industry, encountering challenges related to gender bias, lack of representation, or being underestimated by peers is all too common. These issues are often unspoken, as women may feel hesitant to address them for fear of being labeled "difficult" or jeopardizing career growth.

To address this, it's crucial to encourage open conversations about these challenges. It’s important for organizations to foster an inclusive environment where discussing workplace challenges isn't stigmatized but instead embraced as an opportunity for growth.

2. Finding Your Voice in Critical Moments

Many women in the AV/IT fields have experienced moments where they wish they had spoken up or taken a stand during critical meetings or projects. Reflecting on these moments can be empowering and pave the way for more assertive action in the future.

Finding one’s voice starts with preparation and confidence-building. Practicing self-advocacy through public speaking groups, like Toastmasters, can be incredibly helpful. Additionally, setting small, achievable goals to speak up more frequently in meetings or to share insights on industry trends can build the habit of being more vocal.

Creating a network of supportive peers who can act as allies in professional settings can also be instrumental. These allies can help amplify your voice, when necessary, support your ideas, and provide feedback to help you refine your approach.

3. Investing in Professional Development

Professional development remains a critical factor for career advancement in the AV/IT industry. For instance, women in AV/IT often benefit from leadership training focused on negotiation skills, technical certifications that validate their expertise, or courses on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and cloud-based AV solutions. Seeking out these targeted development opportunities can make a significant difference in career trajectory.

Beyond formal training, women should consider "sponsorship" in addition to mentorship. Unlike a mentor who offers guidance, a sponsor actively advocates on behalf of their protégé, promoting them for assignments and opportunities that lead to career advancement.

4. Navigating Career Barriers and Biases

Despite significant progress in recent years, gender biases and barriers still exist in the AV/IT industry. From being overlooked for promotions to having limited access to leadership roles, to gender wage equity, women encounter obstacles that can be discouraging.

One effective strategy for overcoming these barriers is to seek visibility within the organization. Take on high-profile projects or volunteer for tasks that will increase your exposure to senior leaders. The more visible your contributions, the more likely you are to be recognized for your efforts.

Another approach is to build a personal brand that highlights your expertise and accomplishments. This can involve sharing knowledge through speaking engagements, publishing articles on industry trends, or becoming an active member of professional groups focused on technology and AV.

5. Building a Strong Support Network and Mentorship Programs

One of the best parts of attending trade shows and events is the community and networking opportunities. At a recent cavlo Trade Show Welcome Reception, I remarked on how our community has such a strong bond. We’re such an open and welcoming industry.

Having a robust support network is crucial for women navigating the AV/IT industry. Professional organizations, like women’s associations or AV/IT-specific networks, can be invaluable for fostering connections, finding mentors, and seeking advice from peers who have faced similar challenges.

Mentorship programs, like WAVIT’s Wave of Influence Mentor Program, can be particularly effective when they are structured and formalized within the workplace. Women should not only seek out mentors who can provide guidance but also mentors who are in senior positions, as they can offer a broader perspective on the industry and advocate for your career growth.

Networking events, like our upcoming panel discussion, offer an opportunity to connect with other women in the industry, share experiences, and learn from each other’s successes and setbacks.

6. Improving Representation in the AV/IT Industry

Representation matters, and increasing the number of women in AV/IT roles is essential for driving change. One way to improve representation is through advocacy for more inclusive hiring practices. Companies can do their part by expanding recruitment efforts to reach a broader range of candidates, offering internships to young women, and partnering with organizations dedicated to women in technology.

Women can also take an active role by participating in recruitment panels, advocating for diverse hiring practices, and supporting the growth of junior female colleagues. The more visible women become in leadership roles, the more they can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in technology.

7. Leveraging Resources for Growth

Staying up-to-date with new technologies and practices is essential for career advancement as well. Women should actively seek out resources that align with their career goals, such as technical certifications, leadership development programs, industry-specific workshops, and publications like Commercial Integrator, that offer the latest tech news.

Resources for growth can extend beyond formal training programs. Peer support groups, industry forums, and mentorship circles can provide real-world insights and practical advice. The key is to continuously pursue learning and development opportunities that push you to grow and keep your skills relevant.

The Last Word
Although our journeys in the AV/IT industry might vary, they are all filled with unique challenges, but also rich with opportunities for growth, leadership, and making a lasting impact. I hope you’ll join us at our upcoming panel discussion at DSE where we will delve deeper into these topics, offering actionable strategies, shared experiences, and insights from industry leaders. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to advocate for themselves, foster inclusive work environments, and drive meaningful change within the AV/IT industry.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, there is always room for growth, learning, and empowerment. Together, let’s break barriers and pave the way for the future of women in AV/IT. Join us for a meaningful dialogue and take the first step toward making a difference in your career and the industry.