The internationally-recognised course is tailored to local building laws, working conditions, standards and regulations and equips installers with the knowledge and skills they need to complete the basic level of custom installation. A growing number of home-owners throughout the region are demanding that their homes take full advantage of available technology such as automated lighting control, distributed audio and video, wireless networking, security and integrated HVAC. CEDIA teaches installers how to professionally address their customers’ needs and enhances skill levels for it members.

CEDIA Asia Pacific CEO Stephen Miller was delighted with the Japanese result.

“The group achieved a 100 percent pass rate which is truly excellent. This outcome is a great reward for the installers and the association in Japan. This certification is not an easy one to pass and to have everyone successfully complete it is extremely satisfying,” he added.

One local member, Reo Noda from Audio Nodaya, who completed the course joined CEDIA to help improve his skills. CEDIA is renown throughout the world for its high level of training. He also passed the CEDIA Level 1 Review, a web-based training initiative for installers with at least 12 months’ experience in the custom installation business.

“The home theatre industry in Japan is growing but we are not doing a lot of custom installs,” he said. “It’s mainly home theatre installations. I undertook the CEDIA Asia Pacific Review training in order to learn more. We need CEDIA to help us upskill through training and education.

“Asia Pacific Review is also very important to help learn the basic skills, especially for
someone who wants to start in this business. Certification is very important for my company,” said Noda. “It is important for my employees’ goals, too, who can demonstrate our skills for our customers and attract new ones.

In the past six months, 22 companies have registered as CEDIA members, which is great for the growing industry in Japan.

“Not many people are familiar with CEDIA in Japan just yet so we are helping to spread the word and calling on our Asia Pacific partners to assist us.”

Miller added: “It is a credit to the founding member in Japan, Akihiro Nishimoto, and his team. “They have made great in-roads in the Japanese market and are well on their way to creating a thriving custom installation industry in their part of the world.”