Right to left: Joe Whitaker and David VanWert

July 11, 2018

CEDIA Expo, the leading event for connected technology within the built environment, announces the tour guides for the first–ever Design Connection Tour — David VanWert, principal of VanWert Technology Design and Joe Whitaker, president of Thoughtful Home Design and member of the CEDIA Board of Directors. The Design Connection Tour series will take place on September 6 and 7 during CEDIA Expo at the San Diego Convention Center, September 6–8.

Whitaker and VanWert will accompany designers, architects and construction professionals around the show floor and to select exhibitor booths. Designers and integrators will have the opportunity to discuss future projects where they will display successful design and technology collaborations.

“David and Joe will bring different areas of expertise to the Design Connection Tours that will give design and construction pros a fluid introduction into CEDIA Expo,” states Brian Pagel, senior vice president, Emerald Expositions. “Tour participants will learn about brands and products that are relevant to them as well as the tech integration process including installation and understanding clients’ tech goals.”

David VanWert’s 15 years of experience in the systems integration business makes him an expert in design, consulting, engineering, and project management for the home technology industry. VanWert specializes in understanding the complexities of integrated lighting, structured wiring, multi-room audio, home entertainment, HVAC and master control systems.

VanWert Technology Design helps clients make sense of the confusing world of technology by aiding in the design, budgeting, and integrator interview process. Ranging from advanced to basic home automation, private theaters and entertainment systems, the firm helps clients across North America find the right technology and design solution suited for them.

“Understanding various client’s design and technology goals is the ticket to company growth and success,” says VanWert. “The Design Connection tours will allow for knowledge sharing that may have not been there before, and I am looking forward to seeing the partnerships that flourish because of it.”

As an active member of the CEDIA community and the Control4 tech community, Joe Whitaker brings20 years of experience in custom systems integration and the design industry. He writes for CePro, Electronic House, and TecHome and has played a key role in product development, creation, and pre–production testing with top manufacturers like Origin Acoustics, Sony, Platinum Tools, Sanus, Nyne, Stealth Acoustics, Simply Reliable, VANCO and more.

The Thoughtful Home offers full home automation, smart home design and installation, intelligent lighting control and comfort solutions, home theater, outdoor entertainment, multi–room audio and video, security and safety options, Hi–Res audio, pre–wire, central–vac and even pool and spa controls.

“A large part of my life’s work has been to act as a connector between integrators and designers,” said Joe Whitaker. “CEDIA Expo is accomplishing what I feel the tech industry has needed and I am excited to be part of the inaugural Design Connection program.”

The following brands will be featured stops on the first-ever Design Connection Tours:

Day 1:
Control4

Lutron

Savant

Josh AI

Seura

JBL Synthesis

Cineak

Origin Acoustics

Barco

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)

Day 2:

Control4

Leon Speakers

Origin Acoustics

Barco

Screen Innovations

Nexus 21

Nuvo

LUXUL

Vanco

Noon Home

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)