CEDIA has named Ken Erdmann director of workforce training.

Ken, who received the 2012 CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award, has been an active industry volunteer and CEDIA member since 1992.

“Anyone who has volunteered or received training through CEDIA over the past 25-plus years has probably encountered Ken Erdmann,” said CEDIA Vice President of Technology Application and Workforce Initiatives Ian Bryant.

“Ken is one of CEDIA’s most highly-regarded contributors on the workforce development and education fronts and he’s been an unparalleled mentor to so many, myself included. Ken will play a major role in our ongoing efforts to build exceptional career pathways and innovative training practices that strengthen the industry.”

The addition of Ken to the technology applications and workforce initiatives team represents another stage in CEDIA’s strategic focus on developing a skilled workforce and supporting members as they strive to attract, skill-up and retain top talent. Plans for the department in 2020 include implementing a comprehensive online career centre and hosting a second cohort of the 12-week CEDIA Electronic Systems Integration Technician program, which is designed to provide foundational home technology integration skills for prospective or transitioning employees.

From roles on multiple CEDIA committees — including long stints on the Governance Committee — to serving as an instructor and subject matter expert to time on the CEDIA board, Ken has been a valued contributor to the growth, success, and evolution of the organisation and the industry. In addition to his time as chairman of the CEDIA Board of Directors from 2008-2010, Ken has long been a fixture on the global training scene.

Ken’s extensive experience includes co-owning and serving as president of Erdmann Electric Inc. in Springville, Utah and as an adjunct faculty member at Utah Valley State College. Throughout the years, Ken has obtained several CEDIA Certifications, including ESC-T, ESC-D, and HTDS.