This summer, the U.S. government announced a review of the 2018 Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system, paving the way for potential revisions in 2028. As part of this review, new detailed occupations are being considered, and CEDIA is pushing to ensure technology integrators are (finally) properly recognized.
“Technology integrators possess a unique and diverse skill set that distinguishes them from all other trades,” says Daryl Friedman, global president and CEO of CEDIA. “Their work spans networking, audiovisual systems, automation, and smart home technologies, all of which deserve accurate and distinct recognition within the SOC system.”
SOC codes serve a broad purpose, used by government agencies for workforce development, employment trend forecasting, and job classification. Currently, technology integrators are misclassified as a subset of the electrical trade, which overlooks their unique and varied skill set. Securing a separate SOC code for Technology Integrators would provide recognition, create clearer career pathways, and raise awareness of the occupation’s importance.
On August 9, CEDIA’s comments were submitted for review to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The next step is for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to review both the public and Federal agency input, conduct their own research, and develop and forward initial recommendations for revisions to the SOC code. This review and possible revision of the 2018 SOC is intended to be completed by the beginning of 2027 and then released to begin use in reference year 2028. There will be additional comment periods throughout this important process.
In addition to the submission process, CEDIA is engaging with Congress to bolster support for the initiative. The association has drafted a letter of support from Congressional leaders to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, urging them to establish this new occupational code. These efforts were reinforced by CEDIA members submitting over 560 letters to Congress urging their local Congressional members to sign onto the bipartisan Congressional letter to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bipartisan letter is led by Representatives Nathaniel Moran (Texas), Linda Sanchez (Calif.), and Rudy Yakym (Ind.).
Related: CEDIA Recaps Its Global Fight for Integrators in 2024
“Having ‘Technology Integrator’ recognized as a distinct profession within the SOC system will have a profound impact on the entire industry,” remarks Friedman. “It not only validates the expertise and contributions of technology integrators, but also paves the way for clearer career paths, improved workforce development, and greater awareness of the value we bring to modern homes and businesses.”
CEDIA’s push for a separate Technology Integrator code follows on the heels of its recent advocacy successes. Earlier this year, the association hosted its first-ever Smart Home Day on Capitol Hill, an advocacy event in Washington, D.C., aimed at raising awareness of the custom integration industry. Additionally, CEDIA has filed comments with the FCC related to the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program to further educate federal agencies about the critical work integrators perform.
These national efforts build upon CEDIA’s historical work at the state level, including a recent in-person lobbying day in Lansing, Mich., where the association worked to protect the industry from harmful regulations.
By uniting in this effort, CEDIA and its members can bring much-needed recognition to the integrator profession and ensure its future growth and sustainability.
Take action and join the SOC Campaign by visiting hosted-page.civiclick.com/5940.
