David Labuskes, CEO of Avixa, announced today his plans to retire at the end of 2026, after leading a transformative era for the ProAV association – co-owner of ISE - that began in 2012.
Avixa: CEO David Labuskes to Retire at the End of 2026
Avixa CEO David Labuskes has announced his retirement effective at the end of 2026, marking the conclusion of a 14‑year tenure at the helm of the global ProAV association. Since joining in 2012, Labuskes has played a central role in repositioning the audiovisual industry and its leading association – from a product‑ and system‑oriented market to a profession focused on creating integrated, people‑centric experiences. This strategic shift was formalized in 2017 with the rebrand of InfoComm International to Avixa, reflecting the industry’s broader scope and growing relevance.
Under Labuskes’ leadership, Avixa evolved into a truly global organization. Today, more than 50 percent of the association’s revenues are generated outside North America, and the strongest membership and audience growth is occurring internationally. Avixa is 50% owner of ISE, the most successful ProAV show globally.
Education and certification became core pillars of the expansion, with the number of CTS holders reaching 15,000 worldwide and the introduction of the Audiovisual Network Professional (ANP) certification addressing the convergence of AV and IT. Diversity initiatives such as the Women’s Council and Diversity Council further reshaped Avixa’s internal culture and external representation.
Labuskes also guided Avixa through the COVID‑19 crisis, navigating global event cancellations while accelerating digital engagement formats and rethinking trade show experiences for a hybrid world. The Avixa Board has already initiated the search for a successor, with Chair Tobias Lang emphasizing the importance of continuity in vision and leadership.
