President’s Report
Dear Members,
As we approach the end of the busy fall season and settle into a new membership year, I want to provide an update on where CAVPA stands today and what is ahead for 2026.
Membership Renewal
I am pleased to report that the majority of member companies have already renewed for the 2025-26 membership year. Thank you to everyone who has completed their renewal and continues to stand behind CAVPA’s mission.
If you have not yet renewed, I encourage you to do so as soon as possible. Every active member strengthens our collective voice, especially as we continue to tackle national issues like competition, procurement, and fair access for Canadian-owned AV companies.
Platinum Partners – Renewed for Another Term
I am also very pleased to share that all three of our Platinum Partners have agreed to renew their sponsorship agreements at the end of the original three-year term:
• IntelliEvent
Platinum Sponsors:
• SC Media
• Theatrixx Technologies
These organizations are not just logos on our newsletter. They are critical partners in the health of the Canadian AV sector. Their support makes it possible for CAVPA to:
• Sustain our government advocacy and lobbying work
• Maintain a visible presence at industry events and trade shows
• Invest in communications, tools, and resources that benefit all members
On behalf of the Board and all CAVPA members, I want to extend a sincere thank you to IntelliEvent, SC Media, and Theatrixx for their continued confidence in our work and for their ongoing commitment to Canadian-owned AV companies.
Continued…
PRESIDENT
Tim Lang
Proshow Audiovisual 8105 N Fraser Way
Burnaby, BC V5J 5M8
T: 604-293-1771
E: timlang@proshow.com
VICE–PRESIDENT
Martin Blanchard
Expert’Ease Productions
7836 Rue Jarry E Montreal, QC H1J 2A1
T: 514-444-7723
E: martin@expertease.ca
TREASURER
Cal McCarthy
SW Event Technology
1-325 Bay Avenue Kelowna, BC V1Y7S3
T: 250-868-3333 ext 2233
E: cmccarthy@sw-online.com
DIRECTORS
Kyle Brooks
Bespoke Audio Visual 907 Oxford St. Etobicoke, ON M8Z 5T1
T: 647-797-9911
E: kyle.brooks@bespokeav.ca
Bruce DeMond
Advanced Systems
5678 Stanley Street Halifax, NS B3K 2G1
T: 902-454-4742
E: bruce@advancedsystems.ca
Garry Hale
AVentPro
45 Beghin Ave #6 Winnipeg, MB R2J 4B9
T: 204-226-5565
E: hale@aventpro.com
Jim Harris
Eastern Audio Limited PO. Box 997, 5 Waterford Bridge Road
St. John’s, NFLD A1C 5M3
T: 709 722 0864
Tyler Tardiff TKNL
1349 Rue Gay-Lussac Boucherville, QC J4B 7K1
T: 514-777-7335
Jason Wagner
Fifty North Events Unit 2-1051 Marion Street Winnipeg, MB R2J 0L1
T: 204-227-8951
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carolyne Vigon
T: 416-491-2886
E: carolyne@cavpa.ca
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY AND COMMUNICATIONS
(Ottawa Consultants)
Michael Wood
T: 613-265-9967
E: mike@cavpa.ca
Expo-Scene 2026 – Montreal, April 15-16
Looking ahead to next spring, we have confirmed our booth for Expo-Scene 2026 at the Palais des congrès in Montreal, taking place April 15-16, 2026.
Building on the success of our last appearance, we will once again feature educational, hands-on “play and learn” stations at the booth. These stations were very popular last time, giving students, educators, and other prospective members of our future workforce the opportunity to see and experience the technology our members use every day, and to speak directly with CAVPA members at the booth.
Competition Bureau Investigation – Member Input Still Important
The Canadian Competition Bureau’s investigation into venue practices and competition in our sector remains active and ongoing. Over the past two months, a number of CAVPA member companies have been contacted directly by the Bureau for follow-up calls and interviews. These conversations matter. Real-world examples from your businesses help the Bureau understand how venue policies, procurement processes, and “preferred/exclusive” arrangements impact Canadian-owned AV companies on the ground.
If your company has had a call with the Competition Bureau and you have not already shared a brief update with me, I would appreciate hearing from you. You do not need to disclose anything confidential. A short note on how the call went and the general themes discussed is very helpful. This allows us to better support members and keep our advocacy aligned with what you are actually experiencing in the marketplace.
Sharing Our Story – Podcast Appearance
This fall, I joined Matthew Byrne on his podcast Production Value Matters for an episode focused on CAVPA and the broader issue of AV monopolies and venue practices, titled:
“The Truth About AV Monopolies: Do Event Planners Really Have a Choice?”
In the conversation, we covered:
• Why CAVPA was formed and what makes Canadian-owned AV companies distinct
• How venue contracting and in-house AV arrangements affect competition and pricing
• Practical steps event planners can take to protect their freedom of choice in AV suppliers
Platinum Sponsors:
• How our members deliver production value while keeping investment and jobs in Canada
If you would like to listen or share the episode with your teams, clients, or partners, it is available here:
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=u5uxVgr6gVA
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7dNxB6QNHBE4UKj9PX2N7w
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-truth-aboutav-monopolies-do-event-planners/ id1711052345?i=1000725688760
Our Mission – Thank You
As we start a new membership year, I want to close by coming back to CAVPA’s mission:
“We exist to bring together Canadian-owned sound, lighting and audio visual equipment rental and staging companies of all sizes, to work collectively to promote our industry, and to overcome sector-wide challenges.”
Your commitment to this mission, through membership, sponsorship, advocacy, and day-to-day collaboration with one another, is what gives CAVPA its strength. Whether you are renewing your membership, taking a call from the Competition Bureau, contributing ideas for Expo-Scene, or simply sharing our message with your clients, you are helping move the needle for the entire Canadian AV sector.
On behalf of the Board, thank you for your continued support and engagement. I wish you a successful fall and holiday season, and I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.
Warm regards,
Tim Lang President, CAVPA
Thank You to our Platinum Sponsors...
intellievent.com
Manage Your Entire Workflow
IntelliEvent Lightning is cloud-based rental business management software that helps rental companies, venues, and AV and production pros manage every aspect of your dynamic business.
www.scmediacanada.com
SC Media Canada is a Montreal-based high-end Audio/Video Distributor. We opened our doors in 1983 and have continued to grow ever since. We believe in providing value to our customers at every turn, whether it be through the products we distribute, or the services we provide.
www.theatrixx.com
Based in Montreal, Theatrixx Technologies is a manufacturer and distributor of technical equipment specially adapted for the performing arts, events and entertainment sectors.
We manufacture custom equipment which offers innovative solutions to video, lighting, power and cabling challenges.
EXPO-SCÈNE is the largest Canadian event for entertainment industry professionals to see, hear, discover and experiment the newest technologies in:
PRO AUDIO • PRO SOUND • PRO LIGHTING STAGE TECHNOLOGY • SPECIAL EFFECTS AV • MULTIMEDIA • INTEGRATION IMAGE & BROADCAST and much more!
EXPO-SCÈNE is also about educational TEC Talks on the latest topics, lively demo rooms showcasing the most coveted technology on the market and unique networking opportunities with over 80 industry leading exhibitors and 1900 attendees from across North America and Europe!
Register online now for your FREE Visitor Badge!
Interested in exhibiting at EXPO-SCÈNE 2026? View booth reservation information
Benefit from preferred rates on hotels near the Palais and discounts on air transport! View Travel & Accommodation offers
Visit the EXPO-SCÈNE website for more details.
Don’t miss any update! Follow EXPO-SCÈNE on Facebook, Instagram & LinkedIn
Member Spotlight
Baldwin Studio is a Canadian owned Audio-Visual and Content Production company with more than 35 years of history supporting events across Ottawa, Kingston, Montreal, and surrounding regions. With dedicated divisions for Audio-Visual Services, Creative Services, and Original Production, we provide fully integrated solutions that combine technical expertise, impactful storytelling, and modern event technology.
Our team brings together seasoned technicians, producers, and creatives who excel in delivering seamless event experiences, from corporate conferences and hybrid events to broadcast-quality video productions and branded content. We pride ourselves on our reliability, professionalism, and ability to adapt to the diverse needs of our clients.
Grounded in decades of experience and a passion for the events community, Baldwin Studio continues to evolve with the industry, expanding our capabilities while maintaining the personalized service and high standards that have defined our company for over three decades.
Alex Coon, Chief Operating Officer
Why did you join CAVPA?
When CAVPA launched, we were excited to finally see a unified, national voice championing the same issues we had been fighting for on our own. Joining the association allows us to align our long-standing advocacy with a collective movement, collaborate with like-minded industry partners, and help strengthen the position of Canadian owned AV companies across the country.
What led you to the audio-visual industry?
I’ve always been drawn to the combination of technology and creativity that defines event production. Early in my career I started as a sound engineer and quickly realized how much I enjoyed every facet of the industry. That passion grew into a full-time career, ultimately leading to the expansion and development of Baldwin Studio.
Member Spotlight Continued
How many years have you been in the industry?
Next year I’ll be celebrating 20 years with Baldwin Studio and 25 years in the industry.
What advice would you give to a new employee?
Stay curious, stay humble, and never stop learning. The AV world moves fast, technology evolves, client expectations shift, and no two events are ever the same. Ask questions, take initiative, share knowledge, and always be the person who shows up prepared. Most importantly, remember that this is very much a people business. Strong communication and teamwork matter just as much as technical skill.
What changes have you seen in the industry over recent years?
The biggest shift has been the rapid integration of networked solutions and smart technologies. AV is no longer just projectors and sound systems—it’s unified communications, automation, and integration with IT. The industry has become more specialized, requiring cross-disciplinary knowledge.
What changes do you see facing our industry in the future?
I believe we’ll see an even deeper integration of AV technology with digital content, especially as clients increasingly rely on data to measure audience engagement and verify the impact of their events. Everything is becoming more data-driven, and AV providers will need to support that shift with smarter, more integrated solutions.
Accessibility will also be a major area of growth, which we are already seeing. Simultaneous interpretation, multilingual support, sign language, and closed captioning are becoming standard expectations rather than optional add-ons, and Ai is drastically shifting the cost and availability of these services.
At the same time, the monopolization of the AV industry remains one of the most significant challenges facing Canadian owned companies. Ensuring a fair, transparent, and competitive market is essential for the long-term health of our sector. This is why CAVPA’s advocacy is so important, and why we’re committed to supporting efforts that protect fair access and strengthen the position of independent Canadian AV providers.
What is your favourite pastime?
Surfing is definitely one of my favourite pastimes, and whenever I get the chance, I love being out on the water. I also stay active in the music industry and the local events scene here in Ottawa, which keeps me connected to the creative side of the work I’ve always loved.
CAVPA is looking for committed and enthusiastic individuals to join the Board of Directors, individuals who can contribute their time and expertise to further the association's objectives.
There are four (4) positions available on the CAVPA Board of Directors, each for a 2-year term.
All Active Members are eligible to run for the Board of Directors, one designated representative of each Active member shall have one vote.
As a volunteer director, you will be responsible to:
• Attend and actively participate in approximately seven (7) 1-hour board meetings per year (meetings are held virtually)
• Participate in one or more committee
• Advocate for the interests of our members
If you would like to help promote and guide the development and growth of the Canadian Audio Visual Providers Association, WE WANT YOU.
Your bio will be included with the electronic ballot, which will be sent to all members in January, should an election be required. The voting will take place by electronic ballot opening on January 2, 2026 and closing on January 16, 2026 at 5:00 pm eastern.
The Annual General Meeting will be held electronically on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm eastern, Further details to follow.
If you wish to put your name forward to stand for election, please email a brief bio and photo to carolyne@associationconcepts.ca by December 19, 2025 at 5:00 pm eastern.
On behalf of the CAVPA Board of Directors, thank you for your participation and support!
New Member Spotlight
Systech AV Canada delivers professional Audio, Video, and Communications solutions for residential, commercial, and corporate clients. From system design, installation, and integration to CCTV, automation, public address, and LED displays, we provide reliable technology tailored to every space. We also offer AV rentals for corporate events and conferences, combining flexibility with expert support. Our mission is simple: We design, deliver, and support AV systems that exceed expectations through clear communication, efficiency, and skilled craftsmanship by connecting people and inspiring audiences through the power of AV.
Mark Cabuenas
Co-Founder of Systech AV Canada, Mark brings over 21 years of Audio-Visual experience across the Philippines, Dubai, and Canada. His career spans large-scale commercial installations, custom residential solutions, complex system integrations and commercial rentals. Known for his hands-on expertise and technical precision, Mark ensures that every project and rental deployment is completed to the highest standard—driven by a passion for advancing AV innovation.
Julie Anne Lingan
As Co-Founder of Systech AV Canada, Julie serves as the operational backbone of the company. She oversees business operations, client retention, and staff development, ensuring the company runs with balance and efficiency. With a strong focus on operation, social media and community engagement, she also helps shape Systech’s public presence. Julie’s leadership keeps the company people-driven and growth-focused, building lasting connections while delivering exceptional AV solutions and rental services.
Systech AV Canada Spotlight Continued
Mark Cabuenas
Why did you join CAVPA?
I joined CAVPA because I believe in the power of a strong industry voice. By being part of an organization that represents Canadian AV professionals, I can contribute to strengthening standards, advocating for our industry, and also learning from other members. It’s about collaboration—being part of something bigger than just one company.
What led you to the audio-visual industry?
I’ve been in the audio-visual industry for 19 years, started our own business year 2015 steadily growing from hands-on installation to running a business. Each year has added a new layer of expertise and perspective.
How many years have you been in the industry? 18 years experience/ 11 years in business
What advice would you give to a new employee?
Stay curious and never stop learning. Technology in AV changes fast, and the best technicians and designers are those who adapt quickly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and always respect the teamwork—this industry succeeds because people trust each other on the job site.
What changes have you seen in the industry over recent years?
The biggest shift has been the rapid integration of networked solutions and smart technologies. AV is no longer just projectors and sound systems—it’s unified communications, automation, and integration with IT. The industry has become more specialized, requiring cross-disciplinary knowledge.
What changes do you see facing our industry in the future?
I see AI, automation, and sustainability shaping the future of AV. Clients are demanding more energy-efficient systems, smarter technology, and seamless user experiences. The line between IT and AV will continue to blur, and companies that can master both will thrive.
What is your favourite pastime?
Outside of AV, I love spending time with my family, especially at our cottage. It’s my way of recharging—being outdoors, enjoying the calm, and having those moments away from screens and schedules.
Send Us Your News
We are pleased to extend an invitation to CAVPA members to share your news — staff announcements, new products or services, new business opportunities — anything and everything that will be of interest to other CAVPA members. Your news will be shared in CAVPA’s quarterly newsletter.
Please submit your news article to admin@cavpa.ca
CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
The CAVPA Board of Directors has developed a comprehensive strategic plan that provides a roadmap for the future growth and success of the association.
To facilitate the execution of this plan, committees have been identified as follows:
Marketing
Chair: Kyle Brooks
Goals: Marketplace competition, Newsletter, Website
Education
Chair: Cal McCarthy
Goals: Career opportunities, industry engagement
Membership
Chair: Jim Harris
Goal: Membership growth
Sponsorship
Chair: Martin Blanchard
Goal: Increase sponsorship
Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering for any committees.
Who Are We?
CAVPA is a non-profit association representing Canadian-owned audio visual, sound, and lighting companies from coast to coast by engaging with the event industry, facilitating government advocacy, and creating career awareness.
Government Advocacy
l Facilitate and conduct direct government advocacy at the Provincial and Federal levels on issues of importance to our members.
l Educate governments on the significance of our industry and its economic and employment contributions.
l Promote recognition of our sector as a critical supply chain service provider supporting live events and communications for many other key sectors.
l Challenge monopolistic and anti-competitive practices that seek to harm the competitiveness and viability of Canadian owned AV companies.
l Collaborate with other aligned organizations’ advocacy efforts to help amplify our messages and goals.
Industry Engagement
l Engage with event planners, venues, and other industry stakeholders.
l Promote the benefits and value provided by Canadian-owned audio visual companies.
l Promote a fair opportunity for Canadian owned AV businesses to provide their services at events and venues across the country.
l Educate event planners on the options available when booking venues to help enable freedom of choice in AV vendor selection.
Career Awareness & Education
l Raise awareness of the many career opportunities with our members and industry.
l Engage with post secondary institutions to identify existing programs applicable to, but not targeted at, our industry such as stagecraft, film & television and recording programs, and work to promote our industry as a viable career option for graduates of these programs.
When you join CAVPA, you also get a membership in CFIB!
With 97,000 members, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association dedicated to increasing the odds of success for business owners. All CAVPA members can enjoy exclusive CFIB savings on essential business services like payment processing, banking, shipping, and payroll processing. Plus, you can get expert advice on virtually any HR, compliance, or business issue - and a stronger voice at all levels of government!
Platinum Sponsors:
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Platinum
l Maximum of 5 sponsors in this tier
l Sector protection
l 3 year commitment and first right of refusal for renewals
l Logo on CAVPA signage, website, newsletter & other promotional materials
l Optional participation at AGM & member events
l Complimentary advertisements in CAVPA newsletters (large size)
l Complimentary email distribution to CAVPA members (max once per month)
l $10,000/year ($CAD) annual sponsorship (paid annually)
Gold
l Sector protection
l 2 year commitment
l Logo on CAVPA website, newsletters and other select promotional materials
l Optional participation at AGM & member events
l Complimentary advertisements in CAVPA newsletters (medium size)
l Complimentary email distribution to CAVPA members (max once per quarter)
l $6,000/year ($CAD) annual sponsorship (paid annually)
Silver
l 2 year commitment
l Logo on CAVPA website, newsletters and other select promotional materials
l Optional participation at AGM & select member events
l Complimentary advertisements in CAVPA newsletters (small size)
l $3,000/year ($CAD) annual sponsorship (2yrs paid up front)
CAVPA MEMBER ROSTER
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Lumera Productions Inc.
Shane Archer 1563 Fremont Pl. Victoria, BC V8N 4R4 T - 250-412-7159
Proshow Audiovisual
Tim Lang
Unit A – 8105 North Fraser Way Burnaby, BC V5J 5M8 T – 604-612-7129
Riggit Services Inc.
Rick Smith 8021 Enterprise St. Burnaby, BC V5A 1V5 T – 604-653-9391
SW Event Technology
Cal McCarthy 1-325 Bay Avenue Lake Country, BC V4V 1N2 T – 250-868-3333 Ext. 2233
ALBERTA
Black Cab Productions
Oli Kiddell 23 Covecreek Close Calgary, AB T3K 0J4 T - 587-664-9802
EK Productions
Darrell Garton 4709 14ST NE Unit 8 Calgary, AB T2E6S4 T - 403-680-0145
Event Technology Solutions
Brent Taylor 52-9903 209 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5T 5X9 T – 780-446-9495
invert720 Productions Inc.
Justin Armstrong 101, 17628 103 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5S 1J9 T – 780-999-5792
KDL Audio Ltd.
Kyle Lupul PO box 3301 Sherwood Park, AB T8H 2T2 T - 780-498-6336
Orange Frog Productions Inc.
Pierre Marleau 2880 45 Avenue SE, Suite 285 Calgary, AB T2B 3M1 T - 403-703-7730
Production World Inc.
Kelly Kimo 12410B – 142 Street Edmonton, AB T5L 4K2 T - 780-918-8606
SASKATCHEWAN
ProAV LTD (Professional Audio Visual Ltd)
Mark Kowalyk 1370 Cornwall Street Regina, SK S4R 2H5 T - 306-565-0100
Saskatoon Audio Visual
Chris Lawrie 324C 105th St East Saskatoon, SK S7N 1Z3 T - 306-261-4055
MANITOBA
AVentPro Inc.
Garry Hale
B-635 Camiel Sys Street
Winnipeg, MB R2J 1B5 T – 204-226-5565
EventLight.ca Inc.
Cameron Friesen 1051 Marion Street
Winnipeg, MB R3M 3M9 T – 204-232-5165
Fifty North Events
Jason Wagner Unit 2 – 1051 Marion street
Winnipeg, MB R2J 0L1 T - 204-227-8951
CAVPA MEMBER ROSTER CONT’D
ONTARIO
AV-Canada Inc.
Danny Dobriansky 1655 Queensway East Mississauga, ON L4X 2Z5 T – 905-566-5500 x222
Baldwin Studio
Alex Coon 9 Capella Court, Ottawa, ON K2E 8A7 T – 613-227-3645
bb Blanc Inc.
Rennie Colelli
41 Keyes Court, Unit 2, Vaughan, ON L4H 4V6 T – 416-360-0440
Bespoke Audio Visual
Michael Wilson 907 Oxford St., Toronto, ON M8Z 5T1 T – 647-797-9911
Byrne Production Services
Matthew Byrne 760 Laurentian Drive, Burlington, ON L7N 0A4 877-233-9242
Carbon Arc Projects Inc.
Sean Hooper 8-290 Thompson Dr., Cambridge, ON N1T 2E3 T - 416-492-1063
Continued…
Impact AV Solutions
Randy Woolman
CAVPA MEMBER ROSTER CONT’D
86 Guided Court – Unit M, Toronto, ON M9V 4K6 T – 877-462-3174
SAVI
Avi Yurman
601 Magnetic Drive, Toronto, ON M3J3J2 T - 905-669-7284
Stagevision Inc.
Bryce Engelman 5915 Coopers AvenueMississauga, ON L4Z 1R9 T - 905-890-8200
Straight Street Event Services
Keith Kissner C1-115 Saltsman Drive Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7 keith@straightst.com T - 519-893-3668
Systech AV Canada
Mark Cabuenas 715 Fenmar Drive North York, ON, M9L 1C8 T – 416 741-5994
QUEBEC
Duoson Multimedia
Héléne Drolet
6120 Rue Christophe - Pélissier Trois Riviéres, QC G9A 5C9 T – 1-819-373-4701
Les Productions expert’ease
Martin Blanchard
7836 rue Jarry Est, Montreal, QC H1J 2A1 T – 514-444-7723
TKNL
Tyler Tardiff 1349 Rue Gay-Lussac Boucherville, QC J4B7K1 T - 514-777-7335
NEW BRUNSWICK
Signature Sound Ltd
Mike Jones 1995 Route 640 Hanwell, NB E3C1Z5 T - 506-459-7977
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Pater Audio
Phil Pater
355 York Point Road Cornwall, PE C0A1H4 902-629-5737
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
CanadianAV Inc
Andy Jordan 22 Pearl Place St. John’s, NL A1E4P3 T - 709-739-6666
Eastern Audio Limited Jim Harris 5 Waterford Bridge Road St. John’s, NL, A1E 1C5 jim@easternaudio.com T - 709-722-0864
NOVA SCOTIA
Advanced Systems
Bruce DeMond Box 31005 Halifax, NS B3K 5T9 T – 902-454-4742
ASSOCIATE MEMBER CITT/ICTS
Bureau national 1200 Avenue McGill College Suite 1100 Montréal, QC. H3B 4G7 Direct: 514 504-9997 Canada: 1-888-271-3383
