CEDIA, the international association representing the residential electronic systems industry, is celebrating its 25th anniversary at this year’s CEDIA EXPO. Special recognition of founding members will be a part of the celebration in addition to member appreciation activities.

In the summer of 1989, a small group of industry players primarily representing the first wave of custom installation firms, from a variety of experiences and ages, gathered in a small room in Chicago with a vision to establish the custom installation dealer as a critical partner in the channel for manufacturers to recognize their role and to produce products specific to their client needs. That initial meeting lead to a larger gathering of both custom installers and manufacturers in Las Vegas which lead to the formation of what is now known as CEDIA, the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association, in the fall of 1989.

Over the course of the last 25 years, not only did this small group influence the creation of CEDIA, but through their initial vision and determination, CEDIA has influenced reality and pioneered an industry that is innovative, passionate, and above all, the central connection of manufacturers, dealers, manufacturer representatives and others in the residential technology industry.

“To this day CEDIA is still driven by the entrepreneurial and passion of our founding members and volunteers, which has enabled us to constantly push new boundaries and grow CEDIA and the industry across the globe,” said Don Gilpin, CEDIA executive director and COO “Celebrating 25 years is a true testament to the dedication and determination our members have for their business and the industry. CEDIA has grown from just a small group of 50 visionaries to more than 3,500 professional member companies, representing 22,000 professionals.”

The 25th anniversary celebration will be carried out at CEDIA EXPO 2014, September 10-13 in Denver, CO.

 “For 25 years, CEDIA EXPO is where industry friends get together, new contacts are made and relationships are forged and strengthened. It is with extreme pride to witness CEDIA turning 25 years old this September and to attend our 25th EXPO in Denver,” said Tom Doherty, CEDIA president, 1990-1992, Lifetime Achievement recipient 2001.