The gap is widening, especially in the AV and systems integration sector. In its 2025 Cybersecurity Workforce Research Report, leading cybersecurity training provider SANS found that, for the first time, more than half (52%) of organisations cite “not having the right staff” as a bigger issue than simply “not having enough staff.”  

“Technical skills are now the number one thing companies are seeking, more than experience or even certifications,” says Chuck. The blending of AV and IT demands a new breed of professional, fluent in both disciplines. 

The convergence of professional AV, smart devices, and security systems with IoT and IT has fundamentally transformed the threat landscape. “Your conference room camera or badge reader is now a computer,” he observes. Yet many organisations still fail to treat these devices as such, often leaving them out of standard cybersecurity protocols. This oversight results in significant vulnerabilities, which makes them prime targets for attackers seeking entry into larger network infrastructures. 

The emergence of generative AI has made the skills gap even more acute. Threat actors are leveraging AI to launch sophisticated attacks, making it possible for less technical individuals to orchestrate breaches previously out of reach. Defenders, meanwhile, are racing to adopt AI-powered tools to keep pace. “Attackers now use AI to reverse-engineer patches and mount attacks within hours. What once took weeks now happens overnight,” warns Chuck. 

Tackling the training challenge 

So, how can the industry respond? Many organisations have implemented formal training programmes, recognising that ongoing development is just as important as initial education. The most effective strategies combine on-the-job experience, role-specific learning, and industry certifications. Yet, barriers remain: organisations often cite lack of time as the main obstacle, followed by budget concerns. The good news, according to Chuck, is the growing availability of free resources from institutions such as edX and Coursera. Experiential learning, in events such as the ISE Hackathon, also plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between theory and practice. 

Solutions and advice 

Industry collaboration is vital. Connecting AV companies with educational institutions and offering internships helps address the classic “entry-level job requires five years’ experience” paradox. “Mentorship, hands-on skills, and a passion for learning are more valuable now than ever,” he says. For aspiring professionals, he recommends diving into industry news, participating in practical platforms like Hack The Box, and pursuing free courses to build a foundation. 

As the AV sector continues to evolve, bridging the cybersecurity skills gap will require concerted effort, innovative thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning. “The future is AI-driven, but we need people more than ever," concludes Chuck. 

Chuck Davis (second from left) with the winners and judges of the ISE 2025 Hackathon Cybersecurity challenge 

The ISE Hackathon will return at ISE 2026, where over two days, teams of students will work together intensively at Fira de Barcelona to address three real-world challenges in the fields of sustainability, innovation and cybersecurity. They will work together with professionals from education and other industries. 

Cybersecurity is also firmly on the agenda in the ISE 2026 content programme, thanks to both the inaugural CyberSecurity Summit and the Megatrends programme.

Stay informed! 

Cybersecurity is one of the megatrends that are revolutionising the world of AV and systems integration. 

ISE is the world-renowned annual tech show for the AV and systems integration industry, taking place in Barcelona, 3-6 February 2026. For more updates on cybersecurity and other megatrends, and to discover more about ISE 2026 as details are released, sign up for updates. 

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