For over thirty years, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA) has trained and certified audio visual professionals with their Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) program. With more than 11,000 professionals certified with CTS around the globe and more entering the program with each passing year, Contemporary Research recognizes the value of CTS certification and supports AVIXA’s mission to encourage industry professionals to obtain their CTS certification.

Becoming CTS certified involves passing a test designed to showcase AV experience in creating, operating and servicing AV solutions and their ability to conduct AV management, specifically assisting clients in determining the best solution for their project. CTS certifications come in three types: general (CTS), design (CTS-D), and installation (CTS-I). All three are ANSI accredited under the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) as well as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). These accreditations are an integral part of why customers and technicians alike value the certification.

AVIXA offers a variety of courses and online study groups to help prepare for the test and recommends reviewing the CTS Candidate Handbook. Containing critical information on the testing methods as well as a copy of the exam’s application, AV professionals can take advantage of the handbook’s sections on the exam’s content and practice exams to fill in any knowledge or skill gaps. AVIXA hosts their annual trade show, InfoComm, showcasing commercial AV products and offering CTS certification testing. Additional testing opportunities and information about the certification process can be found on the AVIXA website.

At InfoComm in June 2017, Contemporary Research’s Paul Briggs earned his CTS certification. With three decades of experience in AV, and a current role as a Technical Support Manager, its benefits were immediate as he assists other AV professionals in troubleshooting issues. “CTS certification means a lot in the AV world. It shows that people have the skills to be a successful technician. I appreciate the support of CR in helping me gain this certification,” said Briggs.

To maintain CTS certification, professionals must complete 30 renewal units (RU) in a three year period. Many AV manufacturers offer free RU’s at InfoComm or online. To view a listing of all approved RU approved courses, click here. Contemporary Research offers three online on-demand courses at no charge. Anyone interested in learning more about video distribution over RF and IP can watch the Digital RF and IPTV Convergence course. Contemporary Research is committed to providing opportunities for continuing education by offering new online courses, sponsoring webinars with renewal units and encouraging and supporting our dealers with obtaining their CTS certification.

To learn more, access online CTS resources, and find free continuing education courses click on the links below.

List of CTS RU Approved Courses

Contemporary Research On-Demand Courses

CTS Test Prep:
AVIXA Training Certification
AVIXA Exam Test Prep

Join a CTS Study Group by connecting with Christa Bender.

Additional Renewal Units:
Audinate
Draper
Tripp Lite