Knoxville, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee invested in audiovisual technology that supports teaching, collaboration, and research. Ford AV designed and deployed a comprehensive university AV system for the new Energy and Environmental Science Research Building (EESRB), a state-of-the-art facility designed to serve a range of instructional and collaborative needs.
This college’s AV upgrade encompassed more than 30 distinct learning and meeting spaces, ranging from small labs and conference rooms to large auditoriums and a 500-seat divisible classroom.
New Academic Building AV System Design
As a new construction project, Ford AV was responsible for the complete AV infrastructure throughout the building. This included the design and installation of audiovisual systems across more than 30 spaces, such as small and medium classrooms, teaching labs, a bio lab, multiple 130-seat lecture halls, and a large divisible classroom and auditorium space.
“This project was especially rewarding because we were involved from the early design phase through construction, watching it grow from an idea into a fully realized building where students can learn and collaborate.”
— Ford AV Project Team Member
The University of Tennessee AV system is built using Extron technology. The spaces primarily utilize Extron DTP CrossPoint switching systems to support flexible signal routing and long-term scalability.
The university also fully leverages WolfVision Cynap wireless collaboration systems. Cynap provides wireless content sharing, whiteboarding, moderation, conferencing, and recording within a single device. This enables faculty to deliver interactive instruction while supporting modern hybrid and collaborative learning workflows.
Additional AV components include projection systems and screens, instructional cameras, ceiling-mounted microphones and speakers, digital signage displays, and custom teaching desks designed to support faculty ergonomics and technology access.
Adapting to Campus Constraints and Construction Complexity
Like many college AV upgrade projects, this installation presented several challenges. Work was completed on an active university campus while classes were in session, requiring careful coordination to minimize disruption.
Because the work spanned the COVID-19 shutdown period, there was a late shift toward remote access capabilities in all classrooms. This required Ford AV’s team to modify system designs mid-project to support hybrid and remote learning across every instructional space.
One of the most notable moments occurred when Ford AV identified conduit runs installed in the wrong location. Rather than compromising reliability, the team identified the root cause and relocated equipment from the rack room to instructor podiums. This adjustment reduced cable lengths and restored the system.
Supporting the University of Tennessee with Future-Ready AV Solutions
The building is tailored to the AV needs of a higher education institution. Through early collaboration, thoughtful AV system design, and expert execution, Ford AV delivered a comprehensive audiovisual solution that enhances instruction, supports hybrid learning, and provides long-term value to the University of Tennessee.
Ford AV is proud to support the University of Tennessee’s mission by delivering AV systems that empower faculty, engage students, and strengthen the learning environment.
- Comprehensive Higher Education AV Design – Decades of experience designing and integrating AV for lecture halls, classrooms, and labs.
- Flexible Learning Environments – AV systems engineered to support hybrid instruction, wireless collaboration, and lecture capture.
- Nationwide Installation & Support – Local teams backed by a national network of engineers and technicians.
- Future-Ready Academic Technology – Solutions designed to evolve with teaching practices, technology standards, and hybrid learning.
- Trusted by Leading Universities – Proven AV systems for instructional spaces, auditoriums, divisible classrooms, and collaborative labs.
Planning your next academic building AV upgrade? Partner with Ford AV to build a technology solution that empowers faculty and students.
