Varnex Insider May 2019 - Issue 83 | Page 10

MEET A MEMBER GETTING THE MOST FROM VARNEX BY CHRISTY GORDON, EDITOR We recently talked to Jason Jones, President and CEO of S&L Integrated, and Varnex Spring Conference attendee. Here’s what he had to say about the benefits of Varnex, getting the most from the community, the power of partnership, and more. Please share a little about your company. S&L Integrated is an AV company based in Atlanta and Thomasville, GA. We provide integrated audio, video, lighting, and control systems, and we sell into many different spaces and verticals. This includes businesses, houses of worship, higher education, state and local governments, federal, and more. What’s an upcoming technology or solution you think has a lot of opportunity? I’d say AV over IP, which is short for audio-visual over Internet protocol. A lot of video solutions are being pushed over the network, and it takes talented people to make it all work. This can be a big challenge and having an AV expert is essential. There’s a lot of opportunity there if you have the expertise and capabilities. How did you get involved with Varnex and what are some successes you’ve had with the community? I’ve been a member of Varnex for about five years. I heard about it at Red, White & You one year and joined soon after. Right now, I’m in the relationship-building process. I’ve partnered with a couple of other members on some projects, and a few other members have reached out. One major success I’ve had is partnering with Steve Hull on a project for the Pentagon. NAME: Jason Jones POSITION: President, CEO COMPANY: S&L Integrated What should Varnex members do to get the most from their membership? Go to events and talk to people, speak up, get to know other members. I’d also advise getting involved with the different classes that Varnex offers. For example, the leadership seminars. I’ve met at least a dozen people in these classes and enjoy talking with other business owners about the opportunities and challenges we all face. The vendor classes are also very helpful as I can learn about what other people are doing and selling and get advice from other members. What’s a fun fact that few people know about you or your business? I started off as ballet lighting designer. Many of my first clients were local theaters, as well as churches and musicians. For more information about S&L Integrated, click here. 10