It’s a fact, the way to do business is changing: clients want more complete services plus markets are shifting. But what can companies do to face these challenges? Diversify and converge. Diversification of disciplines, as well as convergence with other industries, have become more and more common for companies who look to grow and explore new markets. In this episode, we talk to Tim Albright, President at AVNation Media, Inc, about what diversification and convergence mean for a business and how to make the right decisions when looking to expand.
Should I develop new divisions in my company? Is cybersecurity a good growing path to follow? What is the best market to work in? Diversifying may sound scary but we’ve got the answers to all your questions. Join us on this chat where we analyze the latest trends of the industry and discuss the pros and cons of introducing new tools to your toolbox.
A special release of the second part of their conversation will be released on March 16.
Chris Salazar-Mangrum (Host)
Vice President, USAV
Chris Salazar-Mangrum, MBA, PMP is the vice president of USAV, a division of PSA. In this role, he leads the USAV division to create value between integrators, manufacturers and other Pro AV associations and service providers. Chris’s experience is drawn from leadership positions within a variety of industries including IT, Pro AV, Security, Telecommunications, and Engineering & Construction. He has an Executive MBA from the University of Colorado, a bachelor of arts degree in communications from Regis University, and Project Management Professional certification from Project Management Institute. Chris and his wife, Michelle, are Colorado natives with three children. He enjoys family travel, coaching baseball and softball and cheering for any Colorado-based sports team.
Patrick Whipkey (Host)
Director of USAV
Patrick C. Whipkey is the director of USAV. Whipkey directly impacts the success of USAV by cultivating relationships with integrators, manufacturers, service provider partners and associations within the network, as well as managing programs and collaborating with the management and executive teams on the overall strategic vision of USAV. Whipkey brings with him over 19 years of proAV industry experience serving the commercial and residential sectors. He joined the USAV team following 10 years with IMS Technology Services, a USAV integration group member company, where he held multiple roles, most recently serving as the director of project management.
When he is not working, Patrick enjoys spending time at the Jersey Shore with his family. He has been married to his wife, Meghan, for 8 years and they have 3 daughters: Kayleigh (6), Callahan ‘Callie’(4) and Maura (7 months). Together they enjoy raising their children, the beach, riding their Wave Runner and good ole’ family time.
Tim Albright (Guest)
AVNation
Tim Albright is the founder of AVNation and is the driving force behind the AVNation network. He carries the InfoComm CTS, a B.S. from Greenville College and is pursuing an M.S. in Mass Communications from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. When not steering the AVNation ship, Tim has spent his career designing systems for churches both large and small, Fortune 500 companies, and education facilities.
