This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 257th installment visiting with Robert White, design consultant with Conference Technologies Inc., which exists to help organizations communicate more effectively through technology. Whether it’s improving collaboration in meeting spaces, enhancing learning environments, or delivering critical information across a facility, our goal is to simplify complex audio-visual technology and turn it into practical, reliable solutions that make people more productive.
Describe more about what Conference Technologies does. Conference Technologies Inc. (CTI) is a full-service audio-visual integration firm that designs, installs, and supports technology solutions to improve communication across a wide range of environments. From conference rooms and classrooms to control rooms and large-scale facilities, we help organizations implement solutions such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom Rooms, digital signage networks, large venue audio/video, and paging/notification systems. In addition to installation, we provide ongoing maintenance and service, AV consulting, and training and adoption support to ensure our clients get long-term value from their investment.
How did you get started? I’ve been around the audio-visual industry most of my life—my father started an AV technology company in 1990, so I grew up immersed in it. As a kid, I was tagging along to trade shows and helping out on installations when I could, which gave me an early appreciation for how technology can solve real communication challenges.
Over time, that exposure turned into a genuine interest in using technology to help people connect and communicate more effectively. After finishing my business degree at the University of Tennessee, I went straight into the AV industry—and I haven’t looked back since.
Describe your customers. My customers range from local businesses and manufacturers to educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and government entities. Many are looking to improve communication—whether that’s within a conference room, across a campus, or throughout an entire facility. The common thread is that they want technology that works reliably, is easy to use, and helps their teams stay connected and informed.
What factors affect your business the most? Technology adoption continues to be driven by workplace changes, hybrid work environments, and the need for real-time communication. Technological advancements move quickly in our field, so staying current is essential. We also work closely with IT and compliance teams to ensure systems meet security and operational requirements. Overall, our role is to help clients navigate these changes and implement solutions that are both future-focused and practical.
What do you enjoy most about this business? I enjoy helping organizations solve problems and improve how they communicate. Every project is different, and it’s rewarding to see a solution come together—from early conversations through design, installation, and long-term support.