The Av industry is a fast track to 100k yearly with experience mattering more then a degree and certifications.

The AV industry offers a rapid path to earning $100,000 annually, where experience is valued far more than degrees or certifications. It’s important to realize that graduating high school is a standard expectation for all Americans; it’s not something just a select few achieve. From 2008 to 2012, I focused solely on classroom work, consistently scoring A’s and B’s on tests, yet I never completed projects or homework. I graduated with a GPA under 1.0 and only 12 college credits, earning mostly 3s on AP tests and 2s in US and world history. After high school, I struggled with addiction and spent significant resources—about $5,000 to $6,000—on technical training and certifications that I haven’t used in my career.

Now, as a freelance AV technician and A1, I’m entering my fourth year in this industry. Here, hands-on experience is often prioritized over formal education. A four-year degree from a school like Full Sail doesn’t guarantee you a better starting salary; most people find themselves in entry-level positions earning $15 to $18 an hour, with little chance of higher pay. However, if you prove yourself in the field and embrace the flexible hours, you could see your pay rise to a minimum of $35 to $40 an hour in the Washington DC metro area by year three. As an A1, my starting rate is $50 an hour for walk-ins and $65 for setup, strike, and mixing. The industry standard often guarantees a minimum payment; even if you only work a couple of hours, you might be paid for five.

Throughout 2023 and 2024, I worked with 6 to 10 different companies, receiving a tax refund even though I didn’t pay taxes on my 1099 income until tax season. My weekly earnings during busy months from February to Halloween ranged from $2,000 to $2,500, dipping to around $1,500 to $1,800 for the rest of the year, mainly in corporate AV work—but I still engage in music-related jobs as well. With no college degree or certifications, my on-the-job experience is what truly stands out. Most of the time, companies don’t negotiate my rates below what I request upfront, and I typically spend two weeks each month working out of town at conferences and conventions, bringing home substantial checks.

I genuinely love what I do; my career is more than just a job—it’s a passion, and that’s essential for true happiness. If you disagree, it likely means you haven’t found a job you enjoy.

My journey illustrates that a college degree is not necessary—it’s simply a marker of reliability. It doesn’t guarantee success, and many find themselves burdened by student debt without any job security. A degree won’t automatically place you at the top; you’ll still have to start at the bottom and earn your way up, regardless of your background.

In 2024, I earned around $110,000, and as I turned 30 and welcomed my first daughter in August, I also had a few fantastic months at the beginning of 2025, each exceeding $10,000. My goal now is to spend $25,000 on an engagement ring for my girlfriend when I propose this summer.

If you have questions or want to break into this industry, don’t hesitate to reach out. If you’re in the DMV area, I might even hire you to help set up and strike gear for an event, and if you enjoy it, I’d be happy to guide you further in your AV journey.

Best,
Jesse Milstead
A1 & AV Technician