Check-In

Pain Points 2026

The popular interactive wake-up call returns, as attendees and experts talk through some of today’s lingering AV issues.

Keynote: The AI Moment for the Collaborative Workplace

For decades, the AV/IT industry has approached spaces as finished products—systems designed, installed, and handed over once the project is complete. However, the environments we support today can no longer remain static. Spaces must now be capable of adapting, evolving, and improving as quickly as the people and organizations using them. That leads to a power shift in perspective: A collaborative space must be seen as a continuously improving service.

To deliver on that promise, every space must now be architected across the physical layer and the digital layer. Hybrid created the demand for adaptability. AI is what now unlocks the capacity to make that adaptability possible. Byron Tarry, Founder and Chief Transformation Officer of NΞXXT will explore how analytics, automation, and intelligent agents can anchor the digital layer of a space, offering the ability to generate insight, optimize performance, and increasingly collaborate with the people who use it.

Networking Break

Designing the Modern Higher Ed Classroom

Whether you’re from higher ed or corporate enterprise, everyone will be able to learn from these AV and IT “lessons learned” scenarios, presented by HETMA.

AV/IT Inside Track

Attendees get the inside track on new products and solutions from select manufacturers. Learn what makes these offerings unique and how they fit into your next project.

Lunch

Broadcast-Level AV for Enterprise and Higher Ed

Whether streaming a Town Hall, creating corporate messaging in a virtual production room, or recording and streaming college instruction, “good enough” no longer cuts it. This panel demonstrates how you can deliver high-quality video productions with broadcast-quality AV that is now available and accessible.

The Consultant’s Roundtable 

There are plenty of consultancy firms that serve the Pro AV end user. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading a current install, a consultant can help you create an innovative environment that inspires communication and connection. Learn how they can help your organization plan, design, deploy, and manage AV and IT infrastructure solutions—and, of course, simplify the process.

Networking Break 

The State of Collaboration

Collaboration spaces are the eyes and ears of an organization. Today, the conversation is no longer about which employees are hybrid or remote or even how many days they work in the “office.” Collaboration is about hearing all participants, displaying content that everyone can see, and sharing ideas. This panel discusses the new collaboration space and the drivers for high-quality solutions.

The Great AI Debate

Yes, we’re still talking about AI—and no, we still can’t agree on it. Is it a tool? Is it a partner? Is it taking away jobs? Is it making your job easier? How is AI truly impacting Pro AV? Industry experts talk best practices and possibilities for the future.

Closing Reception