New crew and learning system will enhance member training
YSN Staff
AVB tech affiliate ProSource has launched what it described as a groundbreaking new education initiative featuring a four-person training team and a “revolutionary” learning management system.
Led by Brett Bjorkquist, ProSource’s newly appointed director of training, the new program will employ “practical tools, real-world application and transformative education to set a new standard” for integrator and vendor training, the group said.
The program builds upon ProSource’s previous education platforms, ProSource Academy and ProSource University.
“For years my mission has been to help manufacturers in the CI and retail space create impactful education — training that goes beyond product understanding to focus on effectively communicating value to clients,” said Bjorkquist, a 25-year veteran of the custom install business. “Rebuilding ProSource University and Academy offered a unique opportunity to develop a program that provides actionable skills and confidence, benefiting both businesses and individual growth.”
To help run the program, Bjorkquist assembled a trio of industry experts with a shared passion for education, including:
- Chaz deVerdier, technical education manager: deVerdier brings “unmatched” technical expertise and over a decade of experience in integrator training and CEDIA programs.
- Mary Ann Paris, instructional designer: a seasoned course developer who co-created CEDIA’s IST and CIT training, Paris “adds synergy” through her longstanding collaboration with deVerdier.
- Brian Kjaer, training manager: Kjaer’s background in speakers, lighting and integrator relationships ensures the platform meets diverse industry needs.
The new education initiative will debut this March at the 2025 AVB Summit in Nashville, where there will be several opportunities for member interaction:
- A live presentation offering an overview of available tools and how they can grow your team and business
- One-on-one consultations, with personalized demonstrations of the platform and feedback sessions
- The first in a series of regular quarterly updates, providing insights into upcoming features to keep members ahead of industry trends
“This platform reflects what makes ProSource special as a member-run organization,” Bjorkquist added. “It’s built to inspire growth, engagement and understanding through practical, real-world applications that make an immediate impact.”
The launch of the educational initiative dovetails with the appointment of Stephanie Keough to the newly created position of vice president of member engagement. Both developments were designed to “enhance the member experience, improve retention and elevate overall satisfaction,” ProSource said.
For more information on the new training platform, contact Bjorkquist and the education team at training@prosourceinfo.com.
ProSource is the country’s largest specialty and consumer electronics merchandising group, representing over 575 independent CE retailers and custom integrators. Leveraging deep industry expertise and vendor relationships, ProSource provides its members with “unmatched buying power and resources,” it said, “setting the standard for excellence in the custom integration industry.”
