Prism is a scholarship created through a joint effort between AVIXA and HETMA, targeted at underrepresented populations in higher ed AV. The first cohort of 10 was selected in 2022. Benefits of the scholarship include a one-year Elite membership to AVIXA, the cost of taking the CTS exam and a virtual prep course, a personal mentor, networking opportunities, and a free trip to InfoComm. New cohorts have happened annually since then, giving a boost to numerous careers. This series spotlights a different recipient each month to explore the Prism process and how things have gone since their participation in the program.
About You & Your Work
To start, tell us who you are and what you do. How did your path lead into higher ed AV?
I’m Layne Weldon, Academic Technology Specialist II with Emory University Candler School of Theology. I started in higher-ed after working as an Audio Engineer for the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. I loved working in theater but wanted to find something more than seasonal contract work. I also wanted to move to where my wife was attending grad school, which led me to University of Florida.
My first higher ed AV job was as an AV Technician for UF. During my time there, I advanced from installer to programmer within UF’s Academic Technology integration department. Since then, I’ve held AV/IT roles at Auburn University and Georgia State University before joining Emory University.
What does a typical day in your role look like—and what does a “busy day” look like when everything hits at once?
A typical day at Emory Candler is a mix of event support, ServiceNow tickets, and tech support across our classrooms, library, and event spaces. With a small but mighty team of four, we often shift between multiple roles throughout the day. On our busiest days, for example when we run Chapel services, two of us handle sound and video production while the rest of the team manages ongoing IT and AV needs across Candler.
Outside of work, how do you unwind and recharge?
One thing I really appreciate about working in higher ed, especially at Candler, is the strong work‑life balance. On weekends, my wife and I enjoy exploring Atlanta’s many festivals or hosting small cookouts with friends. I also unwind by playing music at a local farmers market on the occasional Sunday.
The Road to Prism
When were you selected as a Prism Scholarship recipient?
I was selected for the year 2024/25 and completed my CTS exam in October of 2025.
What motivated you to apply—was there someone who encouraged you, or was it an internal push?
Yes, Jon Hamilton encouraged me to apply. If you know Jon, you know his encouragement tends to be direct and confident, and I’m grateful he pushed me to pursue the opportunity.
What was happening in your career or life that made Prism feel like the right next step?
I was considering new career opportunities, and Prism felt like a valuable way to expand my network and pursue CTS certification.
How did you feel when you got the news, and who did you share it with first? Why?
I think I felt both nervous and excited. I was nervous because, well, now I’ve got to take this test and hopefully pass. I shared it with my wife first, who said I shouldn’t be nervous. She believed from the start I’d pass the test.
Inside the Scholarship Experience
What did you enjoy most about the Prism experience?
If I’m going to be honest, the InfoCom trip. It was great to finally meet up with HETMA members and experience their booth and how fun everyone was.
What proved most challenging, and how did you work through it?
The biggest challenge was knowing what to study. I approached it by completing the AVIXA modules, reading the CTS book, and taking the practice exam multiple times. The Prism study sessions were also incredibly helpful. After the first session, the exam felt far less intimidating. Those sessions gave me a clear sense of both what to study and how to structure my preparation.
Any study or memorization approaches you found especially effective and would recommend to others?
Taking the practice exam repeatedly and studying the answers. Whenever I encountered a topic I didn’t fully understand, I went back to the CTS book for clarification. The exam really requires a solid understanding of the material. It’s not something you can pass by simply memorizing answers.
Certification Status & Outcomes
Where are you right now in your CTS journey?
I have passed the exam and I’m exploring the training to gain RU credits. I’m debating attempting Crestron’s CCP exam, but I don’t know if I’m up for another big challenge right now.
If you’ve earned your CTS, what impact has it had on your confidence, opportunities, or day‑to‑day work?
I feel more confident in my day‑to‑day decision‑making. Being a Prism scholarship recipient also strengthened my application to Emory Candler School of Theology. Even before earning my CTS, it demonstrated my commitment to developing my skills and advancing in the AV industry.
Growth, Community & Professional Trajectory
Looking back, which accomplishments or moments in your career are you most proud of? Any current project you’re excited about?
I’ve been fortunate to experience many meaningful moments throughout my career. Supporting student staff and seeing some of them pursue careers in AV has been especially rewarding. Being awarded the Prism Scholarship and earning my CTS were also significant milestones. I’m proud to have completed my first year at Emory Candler School of Theology and look forward to many more.
How have communities like HETMA, AVIXA, or other higher‑ed groups influenced your growth or opened doors?
Both communities have been invaluable resources. HETMA members are always willing to help, and more often than not, someone has already solved the problem you’re facing. AVIXA provides comprehensive AV training, and I’ve found their tools especially useful.
I’ve also found HETMA to be genuinely supportive and committed to helping those in higher education succeed and elevate the overall technology experience.
What impact has the Prism Scholarship—and the Prism community—had on you personally and professionally? Anything that surprised you?
The Prism scholarship pushed me to go for the CTS cert. Being in an inclusive environment was a welcoming experience. I don’t know about surprised, but it was nice to see how much the members of Prism, AVIXA, and HETMA are willing to help us.
Where do you see your career heading over the next few years?
I see myself continuing with Emory University over the next few years. My role at Candler is a strong fit for my skills and interests, and I find a lot of fulfillment in the work I do here.
Advice & Acknowledgments
What advice would you offer to someone considering applying for Prism—or preparing for the CTS exam?
I say go for it. You’re going to find great support within the Prism community and people who sincerely want to see you succeed. Attend as many tutoring sessions as you can, ask questions, and utilize the AVIXA training.
Who would you like to thank or acknowledge as you reflect on your Prism journey?
I’d like to thank my wife for her constant encouragement and support, my teammates for giving me the time and space to study, and the Prism and HETMA team for their guidance, from preparing us for the exam to creating an incredible InfoComm experience.
