Daniel J SaitBenjamin Pratt, Director at White Onyx Automation, explains how CEDIA has been key in his career development.
A few years ago, I never would have imagined receiving the Best Newcomer Award at the 2024 CEDIA Smart Home Awards. Coming from an electrical background, the world of smart home technology seemed like a challenging and exclusive industry to enter. However, with determination, self-learning, and support from a great community, I’ve managed to carve out my place, and this recognition feels like confirmation that I’m headed in the right direction.
I first discovered the custom install industry on a job I was working on as an electrician. I was fascinated, but when I tried to explore the field, I quickly realised there wasn’t an obvious way in. Opportunities to learn were scarce, and the industry seemed closed off. So, I took matters into my own hands. I started reaching out to brands, enrolling in training sessions, and teaching myself everything I could. Along the way, I documented my journey on social media, sharing my progress and challenges. What began as a personal diary of sorts snowballed into something much bigger. People started noticing my work, reaching out with project opportunities, and introducing me to others in the industry.
By January 2022, it was time to fully commit. I rebranded my business to White Onyx Automation, to focus on luxury performance AV installations.
I’d heard of CEDIA before but didn’t fully understand its potential until I spoke with their team. They explained what CEDIA is all about: a community of professionals dedicated to improving themselves and advancing the industry. Their insights resonated with me, and shortly after, I decided to join.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect at first. But being a member has had a significant impact on my journey. CEDIA offers a source of reliable, vetted information – something invaluable when you’re trying to navigate the vast and often confusing world of smart home technology. In an age where you can Google anything but can’t always trust what you find, having access to CEDIA’s whitepapers, training and resources has been a game-changer for me.
Making progress
Over the past couple of years, I’ve thrown myself into learning as much as I can. I’ve taken courses on cinema design and RP22, and completed the CPD outreach course, which has allowed me to deliver presentations and share my knowledge with others. It’s been incredibly rewarding to not only gain skills but also give back to the industry that’s welcomed me.
Receiving the Best Newcomer Award was an amazing moment for me. It’s a personal milestone, a pat on the back that reminds me I’m heading in the right direction. The recognition has been fulfilling in so many ways; it’s boosted my morale and motivation.
Ultimately, it’s more than just a personal win. Awards like these are essential for the industry. They set standards and encourage us all to push ourselves. Just to enter, you need to meet certain criteria, which forces you to elevate your work. Now that I’ve won this award, I feel a renewed responsibility to keep raising the bar for myself, my clients, and the industry.
To anyone considering joining or even just exploring the smart home industry, my advice is to just dive straight in. It’s a fast-paced, challenging field, but with the right mindset and resources like those from CEDIA, you can achieve more than you imagine. You get out what you put in, and for anyone looking to better themselves, the opportunities are endless.
Winning this award is just the beginning for me. It’s a motivator to keep learning and delivering exceptional work. The smart home industry is growing rapidly, and I’m excited to be part of its future.
Ready to take your career to the next level? Join CEDIA today and gain access to valuable courses, expert resources, and a community dedicated to your success. Explore the CEDIA Smart Home Awards and start your journey towards industry recognition.