How to Become a Smart Home Professional | CEDIA

Government Affairs

Our mission is to influence public policy to protect CEDIA members, the electronics industry and consumers.

Workforce Development

The future of smart home technology depends not only on the technology, but on the people who are desigining and installing it. 

Standards & Best Practices

CEDIA is committed to producing ANSI accredited standards and best practices that ensure professionalism in the industry. 

Design & Build Outreach

The CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI) program enables members to provide continuing education to their local industry partners. 

Market Intelligence

Improve your business through knowledge of the latest trends statistics in the smart home industry.

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Search the CEDIA Calendar to locate all the up and coming events, training, including boot camps, workshops and more. 

Tech + Business Summits

Introducing the new and improved CEDIA Tech + Business Summits—the latest in innovative new technology and world-class, business- and tech-centric education to help you achieve your goals.

CEDIA Expo

CEDIA Expo brings together home tech pros and exhibitors to the leading global event for smart home technology. 

Integrated Systems Europe

ISE showcases the world's leading technology innovators and solutions providers of four days of inspiring conferences. 

Smart Home Awards

CEDIA's Smart Home Awards programs recognises the top projects, products and individuals in the smart home technology industry. 

CEDIA Academy

The CEDIA Academy is the leading online learning portal for all your home technology integration learning.

In-Person Training

Elevate your expertise in smart home technology with our in-person training sessions. Gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge.

Certification

CEDIA Certification is a set of credentials that reflect defined areas of knowledge in the Smart Home Technology industry. Certifications are held by the individual; you earn the certification, and you carry it with you as you continue your career.

White Papers

CEDIA white papers dive deep into applications, recommendations, and advice on a wide range of topics: from software and hardware to best practices, standards, and formats.

Tech + Business Summits

The CEDIA Tech + Business Summits are one-day events showcasing upcoming technology and future trends in the smart home industry.

How to become a Smart Home Installer?

As a growing industry, the smart home profession is becoming a mainstay of trade roles. Smart home installations are pivoting towards energy efficiency, automation and security, with new products emerging every day. From IT issues to burglar alarms, customers’ needs are developing, which offers lucrative opportunities for smart home professionals.

If you’re looking to get started in this thriving sector, take tips from the professionals on how to become a smart home installer.

Educate yourself on the industry and the skills you’ll need

To gain experience in the industry, you’ll need to research user problems and the corresponding technology available. Be mindful that smart home tech is always changing – but customer service is at the core.

This puts the emphasis on troubleshooting, helping customers use their smart home products beyond the installation. You’ll need to be open to learning, which is where the CEDIA Academy can help.

Get your smart home certifications

The most successful smart technology installers have the certifications to back it up.  Once you’ve established your niche, you can explore the qualifications available including:

  • Cabling and infrastructure (CIT)
  • Integrated systems (IST)
  • Networking specialist (ESC-N)
  • Designer specialist (ESC-D)

Don’t forget, you can build on existing qualifications. For example, an electrical contractor might want to advance into an IST. Every CEDIA certification is brand-neutral. This means you’ll be qualified to work with anything from Alexa voice assistants to Schneider Electric lighting controls.

You can also state that you’re CEDIA-certified, giving homeowners total confidence in you to install their smart home systems.

Build your network

With qualifications in smart home solutions under your belt, it’s time to build your network. The right contacts will put you in touch with the best stakeholders. These may be companies to join, or suppliers, designers and clients.

Better still, a solid network will give you insights into the industry. You’ll discover different types of installations and new smart home devices. This may open up opportunities for new markets or cost savings – ideal for keeping your home installation business profitable.

Not sure where to start? CEDIA runs events throughout the year, from our local Tech + Business Summit to the famous CEDIA Expo. Network with respected professionals in the field and build a name for yourself.

FAQs

How do I become a home automation installer?

To become a home automation installer, you’ll need to start by researching the latest trends in the industry. CEDIA members get exclusive market insights and events to keep you updated.

What does a smart home installer do?

A smart home installer can do anything from project management to installing doorbells. You might choose a more customer-facing role like sales, or a hands-on technician career. Roles change all the time as technology develops, from lighting to audio and heating.