On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate Ellen Simich, a trailblazer whose journey at Prysm spans nearly 12 remarkable years. Making waves in the AV industry, Ellen’s career exemplifies resilience, dedication and a profound commitment to her profession and her role as a parent.
Her proudest achievement at Prysm isn’t limited to a specific project or accomplishment. Instead, it’s the balance she carries between being a present parent to her child and excelling in her career. In an industry where the support for working parents often feels like a distant dream, Prysm stands out as a beacon of inclusivity and understanding.
From a business standpoint, Ellen’s journey is a testament to the power of opportunity and growth. She recognizes that her success isn’t solitary; it’s interlaced with the collective achievements of her team. They foster an environment that nurtures personal and professional development, inspiring loyalty and excellence.
Ellen's commitment to education and professional development is exemplified by her CTS certification, a mark of distinction within the AV community. Her recent appointment to the AVIXA Sustainability Advisory Group reflects her dedication to driving positive change within the industry and beyond. Ellen's multifaceted contributions inspire all, embodying the spirit of progress and inclusivity that defines International Women's Day.
Ellen’s gratitude extends to the influential women who’ve shaped her career. She acknowledges Marla Suttenberg, Charmaine Torruella and Laila Hede Jensen as not only mentors but lifelong friends. Their guidance, wisdom and unwavering support have been instrumental in her journey.
Ellen discusses the AV industry for Career Day at her daughter's elementary school.
Ellen notes, “I have been so fortunate to cross paths with some of the most amazing women in this industry. It is hard to mention them all, but I would like to use this opportunity to thank those three amazing women without whom I would not have been the AV professional I am today. Likewise, I’d be remiss if I did not thank the other women of Prysm for their important contributions to our success: Callie Paz, Nancy Vo, Elena Volkova, Roxanne Brown, Medha Bhat, Adriana Arreola and Mudiyam S. Mounika.”
Ellen acknowledges the hurdles that young women often face, from imposter syndrome to the demanding nature of the industry. She adds, “There are two big obstacles for young women entering our industry. In my opinion, many women don’t think they are ‘technical enough.’ Second, a lot of times, our work consumes the off hours, weekends and holidays.”
“First off, you are (technical) enough,” noted Ellen.
In her inspiring journey, she champions a philosophy of relentless curiosity and continuous learning. She emphasizes the importance of never hesitating to ask, “Why?”. She understands that in the ever-evolving landscape of the AV industry, curiosity is the catalyst for growth and innovation.
Additionally, Ellen highlights the critical need for the AV industry to support working parents better. Flexible hours, hybrid work environments, and genuine accommodations are not luxuries but necessities. By fostering an inclusive culture that values work-life balance, we empower individuals to thrive both personally and professionally.
Above all, Ellen encourages aspiring AV professionals to embrace the power of their voice. She challenges the notion of fear and rejection, reminding individuals that the only failure lies in silence. By offering opinions, asking questions, and actively participating in conversations, individuals become architects of change and catalysts for progress.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let Ellen Simich’s story inspire us to break barriers, champion diversity and create a more inclusive future for all.
