Learn and connect with Kathryn Cordina.
Please describe your role?
The most important part to my role is always taking care of the customer, weather it is an integrator, consultant or end user. I spend a lot of time listening to customers needs and pairing them with the right SCT solutions. Helping customers with projects is a fantastic feeling. I like when solutions we discuss help solve a problem. I also update and train customers on new technology. At SCT, I get to stretch my talents in the Marketing and Training department as well. I love learning and it's really exciting to wear a few different hats. Our Business Development team works together and it's fun to work hard, help grow business and work on cool projects.
If you worked in another industry, what struck you when you first entered the AV industry?
AV was my first "real" job out of college. What struck me as unique were the people. So many amazing folks that wanted to work hard, have fun and make sure to go above and beyond for the customer. Plus, I've met some amazing musicians in our industry! Most of them have cool stories about being on tour with cool bands. Love it!
If you have been in the industry a while, what are some of the biggest changes you have seen, if any?
It has been fun to see some of the changes in the industry. One of the best is the increased number of women since I started. We are still not at the numbers we would like, but over the last 25+ years, the percent has grown. I look forward to it growing even more! Another big change was going from an analog world to digital. The technology has evolved in an exciting way and continues to be innovative. The video walls and content are incredible these days!
Do you have any recommendations for “must read” books relating to business; being a woman in business, business in general or motivational books?
I just recently finished 2 great books. The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins and Green Lights by Matthew McConaughey. Both I would highly recommend. Great reads that let you look at your life, how you deal with different scenarios and how to overcome fears.
What do you do in your free time?
In my free time, I like to golf with my husband, take my Doberman, Mookie to the park and see friends and family. Every morning, you can find me in the gym. Todd (my husband) and I enjoy traveling and hiking. I love watching pretty much every sport (Go Cowboys!) and sometimes I get a chance to relax with a good Netflix or Prime series. (loved Jack Reacher) I also co-lead the Dallas chapter of the AVIXA Women's Council. I love that we volunteer for charitable events, including STEM events for elementary students. Talking about AV with elementary kids is really fun.
If you could give any advice to a young woman starting out in AV and may be facing challenges unique to being a female in a male-dominated industry, what would you tell her?
Oh this one is best for a conversation. I think the biggest advice I could give someone is to stay true to yourself, go after your goals and believe in your abilities. It's not easy being a women in a male dominated industry, but for me I took the time to listen, learn and become confident in business. It's ok to be smart, strong and professional. Find a good mentor and networking group. (my door is always open) Having someone that you can bounce ideas off and go to in tough times can be key. And finally, welcome to a fun and challenging industry! You are going to love it!
When asked how they got into the industry, almost everyone states they “fell into AV”. Now that some colleges are starting to offer tracks for AV, do you think that the industry will change?
I hope it changes! We need people to continue to grow the industry. Having college tracks to understand AV can just make us stronger. I think it's going to take a little while, but I know a lot of us (including me) are trying to expose the younger generation to the AV industry. AV is a fantastic career, spread the word!
