Women’s History Month: Celebrating Women in AV

Celebrating women in AV, including Live Oak AV!

This March, we join the world in celebrating Women’s History Month. We do this to recognize and honor the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. At Live Oak AV, we believe it’s essential to acknowledge the women who have left their mark on the AV and music industry. Additionally, we celebrate the women who are shaping its future.

We’re shining a spotlight on the talented women who have made significant strides in AV, from pioneering innovators to rising stars. Additionally, as part of our commitment to supporting women and non-binary individuals in the AV field, we’re sharing a Women of AV Support Networks free resource aimed at uplifting women in AV. Join us as we celebrate Women’s History Month and honor the incredible women who continue to inspire us every day.

 

Live Oak AV’s Women in AV

Women’s History Month is personal to each woman, as we all relate in different and significant ways. So it only made sense, as we were gathering our thoughts on the occasion, to ask each of the women at Live Oak AV to share their thoughts and experiences.

Favorite Aspects of Working in AV:

• Jennifer, CEO & Co-Founder, cherishes the diversity of people and businesses she encounters daily, finding each interaction a new and engaging experience.
• Abby, Accounting, appreciates the opportunity to learn about different equipment and industry trends, keeping her skills fresh and adaptable.
• Jess, AV Tech, finds joy in the thrill of problem-solving on the spot, making events smoother for clients while expanding her own skills.
• Violet, Customer Service Manager & Administrative Assistant, sees her role as providing essential tools to bring others’ visions to life, whether it’s sharing data for medical research or amplifying the love in wedding vows.
• Jorey, Accounting, takes pride in seeing positive reviews and milestones achieved, noting that constructive feedback helps the team continuously improve.
• Crystal, Event Production Manager, finds fulfillment in the variety of tasks each day brings, from event logistics to company organization, all contributing to the success of Live Oak AV.

Inspirational Women in AV and Music:

• Jennifer finds inspiration in Seattle native Brandi Carlile, not only for her exceptional talent but also for her advocacy and philanthropy in support of marginalized communities.
• Abby considers Taylor Swift a hero for her empowering music and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
• Jess draws inspiration from avant-garde artist Laurie Anderson, admiring her innovative use of sound to tell compelling stories.
• Violet finds inspiration in the late Karen Carpenter, recognizing her unparalleled talent as a musician and her enduring impact on the industry.
• Jorey looks up to Jennifer O’Neal for her leadership and ability to navigate a male-dominated industry with confidence and pragmatism.
• Crystal admires Taylor Swift for her resilience, creativity, and commitment to advocating for artists in the music industry.

Hopes for Women in the Future:

• Jennifer emphasizes the importance of achieving equal pay for women, a critical step toward addressing systemic inequalities in the workforce.
• Abby hopes that future generations of women will embody strength, optimism, and resilience in the face of challenges.
• Jess hopes to see continued progress in breaking down gender barriers in the AV industry, where women are increasingly recognized for their technical expertise.
• Violet envisions a future where women no longer have to fight to be heard or taken seriously, advocating for greater respect and understanding across all areas of life.
• Jorey hopes for greater financial and mental health literacy among women, empowering them to take control of their futures.
• Crystal calls for more representation of women in leadership roles across society, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes.

These insightful perspectives from our talented team reflect the diversity and resilience of women in AV, inspiring us to celebrate their contributions not just during Women’s History Month but every day of the year.

 

Seattle’s Notable Women in AV

Some of the most influential women in AV and the music industry can be found in our own backyard. These Seattle-based women are as iconic as the musicians they’ve worked with, whose contributions are worth celebrating. 

Susie Tennant, a long-time West Seattle neighbor, was integral to the Seattle music scene in the 1990s. As a promotional genius, Susie is most well known for “breaking” bands such as Nirvana, The Supersuckers, The Fastbacks, and many more through her work with DGC Records and Subpop. Additionally, Susie’s marketing expertise expanded to support the University Bookstore, Experience Music Project (MoPop), and The Vera Project to name a few. Susie also assisted Light in the Attic Records make important connections in Germany, leading to prosperous relationships and growth. As an activist, Susie played a large part in the passing of Washington State’s Marriage Equality Act through Music for Marriage Equality. Though Susie is no longer with us, her contributions to the music industry, Seattle, and Washington state will forever be celebrated.

Susan Silver, this Seattle native has been successfully managing bands such as Alice in Chains, Sound Garden, and Screaming Trees since 1983. However, this isn’t Susan’s only contribution to Seattle culture. Susan has also been credited with enmeshing Dr. Martens boots with the “grunge look”. As a manager at the John Fluevog shoe store in Seattle, Susan sold Dr. Martens boots to friends and folks in grunge bands, thus heavily influencing fashion, and bringing the boots to the American masses. Additionally, Susan is a current co-owner of the legendary venue The Crocodile, which moved to a new 30,000-square-foot space in 2020. Susan Silver is a true icon!

Rachel Field, a Mastering Engineer in Seattle, Washington, has been making waves in the local recording industry for over ten years. The Art Institute of Seattle graduate has worked with artists such as Brandi Carlile, Eddie Vedder, Pearl Jam, and many more artists far and wide. In 2016, Rachel co-founded Resonant Mastering with Ed Brooks in Seattle, welcoming all genres and artists, regardless of their label status. Resonant Mastering offers a wide variety of services, including mastering for vinyl pressing! Rachel can also be found offering presentations and workshops at the university level. Rachel is a true trailblazer in the industry, and we are so grateful to have such a talented and brilliant mind here in Seattle.

 

Supporting Women in AV

In any industry, having a strong support system and access to networking groups is crucial for career advancement. This holds especially true in the AV industry, where women who actively network can accelerate their professional growth. By participating in professional networking organizations, women can gain valuable insights and industry knowledge. Mentorship opportunities can help them reach their career goals more efficiently too. 

At Live Oak AV, we understand the importance of fostering a supportive community for women in AV. That’s why we’re excited to offer a free resource specifically designed to help women in the industry thrive. Our resource includes a curated list of support groups, professional networking organizations, alumni programs, and recommended reading material. All of which is tailored to the unique needs and challenges faced by women in AV.

By accessing this resource, women can connect with other professionals, and gain access to valuable resources and opportunities. Plus, the opportunity to build meaningful relationships that can last a lifetime. Whether you’re just starting your career in AV or looking to take the next step, our free resource is here to support you every step of the way.

Join us in building a stronger, more inclusive community for women in AV.

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