AWE expands CI training, opens Smart Home Academy

AWE has launched a new training initiative, the Smart Home Academy. Designed to accommodate both newcomers to custom install, such as electrical retailers and satellite engineers, to veteran installers, the programme will run alongside training courses already offered at AWE, and comprises The Foundation Workshop and dedicated Manufacturer Training. AWE believes that the Smart Home Academy approach will help get more people involved in CI, and grow the business as a result. The AWE Smart Home Academy opens its doors from September. 

The full-day Foundation Workshop is for the less experienced residential installer, and covers the fundamentals of custom integration. As well as background and theory, there will be "a heavy bias towards the essential skills and knowledge required for a variety of tasks that integrators will be faced with on a regular basis in a hands on workshop." This will include basic health and safety advice, plus do's and don'ts of CI, followed by practical sessions. The latter will include installing an in-ceiling speaker between joists and mounting a TV bracket, and terminating and testing CAT 5/6 networking cables reliably.

AWE Smart Home Academy Manufacturer Training will place monthly and offer an opportunity to view, hear, handle and ask questions about new latest products from a specific AWE-distributed brands. Training begins with KEF and Loewe, and will feature the new KEF Ci200RR-THX in-ceiling/wall speakers and upcoming Loewe TV models due to be launched at this year's IFA.

"Custom installation is opening up to a wider audience, and growing in popularity as many systems and technologies become more affordable," says MD Stuart Tickle. "This has placed it firmly on the radar of everyone from the independent electrical retailer, to electricians and satellite installers, who are looking to expand their revenue stream, which is why we have introduced the Foundation workshop. At the same time, the market expansion also represents an opportunity for seasoned installers, but they must be sure to distinguish themselves by being the best at a professional installation. The AWE Smart Home Academy builds on AWE's award-winning reputation for high quality, immersive training that gives new entrants and seasoned installers the skills they need to be as successful as possible."

The framework for the AWE Smart Home Academy will repeat monthly, with various courses and workshops starting on four week rotation. The distributor says an overnight stay could be possible for those completing consecutive courses. AWE has released its September training schedule, which unfolds like this:

Week 1
The Foundation Workshop - September 2
Single Room Control with URC - September 3

Week 2
Manufacturer Training - September 11

Week 3
Lighting Control System Design with Philips Dynalite and Silent Gliss - September 16
Lighting Control System Programming with Philips Dynalite (Day 1) - September 17
Lighting Control System Programming with Philips Dynalite (Day 2) -  September 18

Week 4
Whole House Integration with URC - September 23
CEDIA CPD - September 24
HDMI and 4K Video Distribution with HDanywhere - September 25

Courses are priced at £25 for product specific training days, £99 for the Foundation Course, and are free of charge for the manufacturer events. Prices include refreshments and a light lunch, but delegates can also claim the cost back against demo products ordered on the day.

To book a place, click here. For further information on the AWE Smart Home Academy call +44(0)1372 729 995.  Places can be booked here.

For more on AWE's product portfolio and range of services, visit our partner page here.