CHICOPEE — Valley Communications Systems will host the AV Pathways Showcase on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at its headquarters, 20 1st Ave., Chicopee. The full-day, hands-on event brings together leading technology partners and regional education programs to introduce students to real-world careers in the commercial audiovisual industry.

The showcase is presented in partnership with Midwich and features industry leaders including Bose Professional, Barco ClickShare, Logitech, and Absen. Educational partners include Veritas Charter Prep School, the Tech Foundry Tech Bridge Program, and guest organization the Loop Lab, which helped develop the Pro AV curriculum being introduced to students across Western Mass.

Approximately 40 to 50 students and instructors will participate in guided demonstrations, interactive system walk-throughs, and short career talks that show how professional audio, video, collaboration, and LED display technologies are designed, installed, and supported in real commercial environments. Students will rotate through hands-on stations, interact directly with manufacturers and engineers, and learn how classroom skills translate into careers in technology integration.

“The AV industry is growing, but awareness of the career paths is still limited,” said Michael Tremble, CEO of Valley Communications Systems. “This event is about opening doors. We want students to see what this industry looks like in practice, meet the people behind the systems, and understand that there are real, long-term careers here in our region.”

The AV Pathways Showcase is part of a broader effort to strengthen workforce development across Western Mass. by connecting education programs with employers, manufacturers, and technology partners. By pairing curriculum with live systems and working professionals, the event aims to spark interest, build confidence, and create a clearer pathway from classroom to career.

CHICOPEE — Valley Communications Systems Inc. announced that Edward Tremble is vacating the role of CEO and has been named board chairman. In this role, he will continue his strategic oversight and business-development efforts for the company. Tremble, who has served as CEO since 2010, will be succeeded by Michael Tremble, who has been serving as executive vice president, with Joshua Kranz assuming the role of president.

In their new roles, Michael Tremble and Kranz will draw on their extensive knowledge and tenure at Valley Communications, leveraging their creative mindsets and passion to help the company further build out its solutions while identifying future areas of growth.

Michael’s work over the past 11 years at Valley has helped the company grow through its strategic sales and partnership objectives. Prior to joining Valley, he served as a strength and conditioning coach both at the NCAA and professional levels. His 10-year coaching background, with a focus on individual and team growth and development, has helped guide his leadership style and approach to how he has supported Valley’s customers and employees. He is also active in the community, currently serving as a board member for Glenmeadow (board vice chair), Providence Place, and Mary’s Meadow, all nonprofit organizations focused on senior living and care.

“It is an honor to carry on the legacy of Valley’s leaders that have come before me,” Michael Tremble said. “I look forward to building upon the strong foundation they have laid over the past 77 years. I am proud that Valley’s culture emphasizes our incredible people and strong commitment to our partners. We will continue to grow and expand our reach while holding true to our core values.”

In Kranz’s 34 years with Valley, he has held numerous roles of increasing responsibility across the organization. Most recently, he served as the company’s chief technical officer, a position he will retain alongside his new role as president.

“I am very excited about the future and believe my skill set, experience, and organizational mindset uniquely positions me to lead the operational efforts of this great company,” he said.

Edward Tremble added that “Michael and Joshua are extremely respected leaders whose relentless focus on the client and partner relationship will ensure a smooth transition. Valley’s future looks incredibly bright with these two steering the company towards new heights of innovation and growth.”