Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1156106
October/November/December 2019 I 61 items. Audio enhancements, such as the addition of sound masking and upgrades to the amplifier, pend- ant speakers and microphones, were also made to the training rooms. The new BICSI Learning Academy also has a large, contem- porary student lounge area, café, media area and an open view of a modern equipment room that serves as a showcase reflecting the modern application of PoE and internet of things (IoT) in a sustainably intelligent building. "Since BICSI's inception in the 70s, the technology industry has undergone immense changes. Through the decades, BICSI has remained ahead of the curve to provide continuously unmatched education and thought leadership to the ICT community," said BICSI Executive Director and CEO John Clark Jr., CAE. "The modernization and renovation of the BICSI World Headquarters, including the expan- sion of the BICSI Learning Academy, is indicative of our commitment to provide the highest level of service "The world-class BICSI Learning Academy has served thousands of individuals across the globe," said BICSI President Jeff Beavers, RCDD, OSP. "The updates made to our training facilities will ensure we are equipped to serve thousands more going into the future." With a total of four spacious classrooms, the new and improved BICSI Learning Academy can host more face-to-face classes. An addi- tional installation classroom fit for both copper and optical fiber cabling classes was added as part of the renovation. Classrooms are equipped with a number of advanced features that elevate the quality of instruction including simulated entrance facil- ities, equipment rooms, telecom- munications rooms (TRs), flexible workstations, dual projection screens, switching and capacitive touch con- trol, lecture capture/live streaming, 4K laser projectors and ceiling- mounted 4K document cameras capable of projecting even the smallest of optical fiber-related "BICSI's standing as the authority on ICT education is backed by the support of industry leaders." —Project Refresh Lead and Chief ICT Designer, Ed Donelan, RCDD, NTS, ESS. and value to the ICT community and our members, starting with our home base in Tampa, Florida." BICSI staff areas were also improved during the complete remodeling project to create bright, open and collaborative workspaces with modern efficiencies. Several multi-collaboration rooms and spaces throughout the headquarters facilitate a functional work environ- ment that encourages coordination among workgroups. Conference rooms equipped with state-of-the-art video conferencing and interactive displays elevate the quality and effectiveness of staff meetings. The staff break area received a facelift worthy of a new name—the Getaway Café—complete with ample indoor and outdoor seating areas, modern appliances, a large TV and a view of the surrounding wilderness preserve.