The AV industry thrives on the people who power it—those who innovate, adapt, and push boundaries. That’s exactly what Kameesha Jones has done throughout her career. From a background in music to navigating Broadway productions, university AV management, and large-scale event production, her journey as women in AV is one of resilience, passion, and a relentless drive to lift others up along the way.

Listen to Kameesha’s story on Women in AV Episode 17

A Career Built on Adaptability

Kameesha’s entry into AV was anything but conventional. Starting as a musician with a degree in music technology, she found herself facing a common reality—how to make a living in a creative field. Law school wasn’t the right fit, so she pivoted, earning a master’s in music production and management at Florida International University.

It was during her time interning at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami that she stumbled upon the world of AV. Working behind the scenes on Broadway productions like The Lion King and The Bodyguard, she quickly realized that audio-visual technology was much more than just cables and consoles—it was the backbone of live experiences.

From there, she worked her way through museums, universities, and live event spaces, eventually landing in New York, where she took on roles at NYU, off-Broadway theaters, and even the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Each step in her career required a willingness to learn, whether it was picking up new technical skills, pushing through grunt work, or navigating the high-stakes world of live productions.

Surviving and Thriving as Women in AV

Like many in the AV industry, Kameesha’s career took a hit when COVID shut down live events. But instead of waiting for the industry to recover, she took the opportunity to upskill, diving into AVIXA certifications and learning more about the broader AV landscape.

This adaptability is a critical lesson for IT and AV decision-makers. The industry is evolving at a rapid pace, with hybrid work, AI-driven automation, and digital transformation reshaping how AV is designed and deployed. The professionals who succeed are the ones who continuously evolve, much like Kameesha did.

The Power of Mentorship in AV

One of the most powerful themes in Kameesha’s journey is her commitment to mentorship. She didn’t have a guide when she entered the industry—no one to tell her which certifications mattered, how to structure her resume, or where the real career opportunities were.

Now, she’s making sure others don’t have to navigate the industry alone.

She mentors high school students, helping them see that AV isn’t just a job—it’s a career with real earning potential. For college students, she connects them with apprenticeships and internships, making sure they get the experience needed to stand out. And for early-career professionals, she’s a sounding board, offering career advice and advocating for fair pay.

This kind of mentorship isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for the future of the industry. As seasoned AV professionals near retirement, there’s a pressing need to bring in the next generation, ensuring that institutional knowledge doesn’t disappear. IT and AV leaders need to recognize the value of mentorship within their own organizations, actively working to build a pipeline of skilled professionals.

Why IT and AV Leaders Should Take Notice

Kameesha’s journey underscores some key takeaways for anyone responsible for AV in their organization:

1. AV is an intentional career path, not just a fallback. Many professionals, especially younger ones, still stumble into AV rather than actively choosing it. The industry must do a better job of positioning itself as a viable and lucrative career option.
2. Upskilling and adaptability are non-negotiable. Whether it’s new technology, emerging trends like AI, or evolving workplace expectations, AV professionals must continuously learn and adapt.
3. Mentorship is the key to workforce development. The industry needs a structured approach to developing talent, from high school programs to entry-level career development.
4. Diversity and inclusion matter. Kameesha’s role as a DEI advocate highlights an ongoing challenge in AV—ensuring that opportunities exist for all, regardless of background. Leaders must be intentional about creating inclusive spaces and career paths.

Intentionally Forging Ahead

For Kameesha, 2025 is all about being intentional. She’s making every move count—whether it’s mentoring the next generation, advocating for DEI in AV, or expanding her technical expertise.

For AV and IT decision-makers, the takeaway is clear: The future of the AV industry depends on people like Kameesha—those who are willing to learn, lead, and invest in the next generation. The question is, what are we doing to support them?

Let’s make sure AV remains a thriving, innovative, and welcoming industry for years to come.