Powerful Women in Consumer Technology 2017: Sandra Benson of Custom Audio Video
Monday, October 23rd, 2017
Since 1996 Sandy has been the owner of Custom Audio Video. Before that, she received her B.S. from the College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern University in 1983, and worked as a pharmacist until opening Custom Audio Video. Sandy has demonstrated that women can lead a technology-based business to success, and at the same time raise a family and maintain a connection with the community. Through challenging times, she managed to continue developing CAV into the premier AV integrator in her region.
Please share a little bit about your career history.
My title is owner of Custom Audio Video. I started the business with my husband in 1996, when we were building homes and having a difficult time finding a company in our area to install low voltage systems. He unfortunately passed in 2001 and I have continued operating with a group of extremely talented and passionate AV aficionados, who are still with the company today.
What attracted you to the consumer technology industry as a career move?
When we moved to the Hilton Head Island area there were limited Consumer Electronics retailers, designers and installers. It appeared the Lowcountry area could use this type of service and so that was how we began. As it turned out 21 years later, it was a very good decision.
What are the best initiatives that are available currently to attract women to careers in CT and help them to advance – and what hurdles are left to overcome?
The best initiatives available to women are any and all small business groups who can help promote women, as well as inform and educate on opportunities available to us as minority small business owners. Government projects are one of the arenas available to minority business owners.
The CE industry is still a male dominated industry and as far as overcoming that hurdle, we as women in this industry must stay focused and learn to support each other. Women must also make sure they don’t burn out so they can keep the momentum. Learn to count on those who work with you to keep the business on track. Keep it fun so you don’t lose your passion and you will stay productive.
What accomplishments are you most proud of in your business career?
Maintaining and growing this business though some of the most challenging personal adversity and critical economic periods over the last 21 years. Also, by keeping our mission that customer service is the crux of our business model. Finally, as a business owner I am also very delighted to continue our support of the many non-profit organizations that are a huge part of our community.
Please add any personal reflections you would care to offer about having chosen a career in CT.
As a pharmacist by degree, I never thought that this would become my livelihood or my passion. I must take a moment to thank those who have worked side by side with me to support me and this business during the great times and some of the most difficult of times. It’s very rewarding to receive accolades from those individuals who have been our clients for the length of time we have been in our Lowcountry community!