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Mitchell Klein, a 30-plus-year industry veteran who helped shape the custom installation business in its early days, is the recipient of CEDIA’s 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award recognizes individuals for outstanding, creative, innovative, and visionary leadership in the growth and advancement of the residential technology industry.

Klein was nominated by industry professionals and will be honored at the 2019 CEDIA Expo, which runs September 10-14 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver.

"Mitch has been actively engaged with CEDIA from the early stages and has continued to serve the community," said CEDIA chairman David Humphries. "Anyone who knows Mitch likely has a story about his willingness to share his expertise and his passion to further the growth and success of the industry."

Walt Zerbe, CEDIA senior director of technology and standards, added: "Mitch is a pillar of guidance and mentorship — whether that’s mentoring a person, program, or company. He is unfailingly selfless and always willing to help solve a problem."

Klein has dedicated his career to educating the industry, building, creating and implementing strategic businesses and programs, and leading companies that helped bring smart home and custom installation into the mainstream. He is known for kicking off key initiatives for CEDIA in almost every area including operational, educational, financial, legislative, and marketing.

Examples include initiating and implementing CEDIA’s first strategic plan, the creation of an operating budget and reserve fund, introducing the CEDIA certification program and Management Conference, along with various policy and promotional projects. Klein is considered a leader in IoT (Internet of Things), consumer electronics, and home automation and is a current member of CEDIA’s Professional Development Action Committee.

In his current role as the executive director of the Z-Wave Alliance, Klein increased membership 60% to more than 700 global companies with 3,000 certified products.

Prior to Z-Wave, Klein consulted for numerous consumer electronics brands, led business development at URC and owned and operated a leading custom installation firm for more than 14 years.

Klein is a CEDIA Fellow, former two-term CEDIA president and ongoing volunteer who contributes regularly to, and is interviewed by, trade and technology publications. He is also a regular presenter and panelist at CES, CEDIA, and many other industry gatherings.