- Rise AV launches Mentoring Programme for women in the AV sector
- Includes 6 months of free mentorship, networking events, and specialised training
- Starts May 2025, applications close 31 March 2025
- The programme aims to tackle the skills shortage and gender diversity issues in the AV industry
Rise AV has launched its inaugural UK Mentoring Programme Agenda. Starting in May, the six-month initiative is designed to empower women by providing invaluable support to those with up to six years of experience, as well as those at the start of their career journey. Thanks to the generosity of Rise AV’s industry partners and the dedication of its esteemed mentors, participation in the programme is free of charge.
All participants will gain access to a structured programme that accelerates professional growth and career development. The programme features a blend of scheduled masterclasses, networking events, and responsive content shaped by industry feedback from the Rise AV Advisory Board. Mentees are paired with an industry mentor for at least 12 hours of personalised guidance.
The full programme agenda can be found HERE.
Applications are Now Open for Mentees and Mentors
Applications are now open via the Rise AV website until Monday 31 March 2025. The programme runs for six months, and mentees are expected to commit to regular meetings with their mentors, attend scheduled events, and actively engage in the mentoring relationship.
Who Can Apply as a Mentee? Applicants are selected based on an individual’s passion for the AV industry, their career goals, growth potential, and a demonstrable commitment to the scheme. This exclusive programme is designed for ambitious women based in the UK who aspire to advance their careers in the dynamic AV, live, and residential technology markets.
Rise AV welcomes individuals from all company types—including manufacturers, distributors, integrators, production teams, events companies, consultants, end-users, and more— covering all roles, from engineering and project management to sales, marketing, HR and more.
Who Can Apply to be a Mentor? Individuals must have substantial industry experience and expertise in their field, be based in the UK, and commit fully to the six-month mentoring programme and dedicate at least one-hour per month to their paired mentee.
The programme is open to female, male, and non-binary mentors alike. Rise AV’s Mentor Manager, Carla Maroussas will provide training sessions and guidance for mentors.
Mentors and mentees will be carefully matched based on their professional backgrounds, expertise, and the career goals of mentees, ensuring meaningful and beneficial connections.
Rachael Hamilton, Managing Director of Rise AV said: “The AV industry is facing a critical skills shortage, a lack of gender diversity, and barriers to career progression—threatening its future growth. Rise AV is tackling these challenges head-on with initiatives that upskill professionals, support leadership development, and create a more inclusive, innovative workforce.”
Hamilton adds, “For businesses, investing in diversity and professional development isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic advantage. Supporting Rise AV helps companies attract and retain top talent while addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges: securing the next generation of leaders. This programme plays a crucial role in bridging the skills gap, ensuring the industry has the expertise needed to thrive in the future. By preparing women for leadership roles and succession planning, we create a more sustainable and dynamic workforce. But we can’t do it alone and support in the form of sponsors are vital in shaping a stronger future for AV.”
To find out more and explore ways to get involved, please contact:
Rachael Hamilton, Managing Director – [email protected]
To register as a mentor or mentee, sign up here.
