Philadelphia, PA — May 8, 2025 — Exertis Almo, the largest and most specialized value-added North American AV distributor, today announced that Cory Allen, Vice President of LinkLab Services, has earned a coveted spot in the Systems Contractor News (SCN) 2025 cohort known as “The Nine.”
This marks the third consecutive year that an Exertis Almo team member has been selected for this distinguished honor. In 2024, Rob Voorhees, Director of Business Development – Audio Category Manager, was named, following Karen Castaño, Director of National Business, in 2023.
Widely regarded as one of the AV industry’s most respected accolades, SCN’s The Nine celebrates young professionals who are shaping the future of AV through innovation, leadership, and vision. According to SCN, honorees are chosen for their risk-taking mindset, trailblazing approach, and the professionalism and positivity they bring to the workplace. Each year, the program highlights emerging leaders across various disciplines, including engineering, product development, marketing, sales, service, training, virtual production, and operations.
In the official SCN article recognizing Allen, the publication stated, “Driven and ambitious, Cory Allen is not comfortable just standing still and never settles for good enough, He always strives to push through no matter what’s in the way and constantly looks for ways to level up and adjust his approach.”
"From a professional standpoint, Cory brings a dynamic blend of competence, confidence, courtesy, and positivity—fueling both visionary strategy and impactful day-to-day execution," said Dan Smith, EVP of Exertis Almo. "On a personal note, Cory's sense of humor is refreshing, and he definitely has the best hair in the business!"
Reflecting on the honor, Allen said, “I feel fortunate be part of one of the hardest-working teams in the industry. The way I see it, any recognition I get is really just a reflection of our collective effort and passion. So, while I deeply appreciate the acknowledgement, I know it doesn’t mean much without the people I’ve had the privilege of working alongside, and those who’ve collaborated with me, challenged me, and trusted me to lead.”
As Vice President of LinkLab Services, Allen leads the entire services team at Exertis Almo, providing strategic oversight to drive growth, operational excellence, and quality across all service areas — including operations, sales, and production. He is known for bringing a unique blend of leadership, technical skill, and creative customization to every AV project and partner relationship.
Earlier this year, Allen spearheaded the relaunch of the company’s well-established service portfolio under the new brand name LinkLab. This refreshed offering empowers integrators with access to a robust suite of customizable services designed to streamline projects, scale business, and enhance performance across the Pro AV landscape.
LinkLab services include Engineering & Drafting, Design & 3D Modeling, Programming & Commissioning, Labor Support, and the new Autora Digital Signage Management Platform.
About LinkLab
LinkLab simplifies complex tasks and provides expertise that helps integrators get projects done faster and more efficiently. Designed to accelerate business growth with tailored services that streamline operations, the LinkLab suite of services provide supplemental/augmentable options for integrators and a way for them to expand their business while remaining nimble. The relaunch also provides the proper platform to offer a broader range of services and set the foundation for future opportunities.
Additional benefits of LinkLab include:
- Scalability: Adapt to project demands without overextending internal teams.
- Flexibility: Tailor services to specific needs and challenges.
- Cost-Efficiency: Reduce expenses related to training, staffing, and travel.
- Time Savings: Focus on core business priorities while Exertis Almo handles the details.
- Technological Edge: Stay ahead with the latest tools and systems expertise.
- Expertise On Demand: Access specialized knowledge without maintaining in-house resources.
About Exertis Almo
Exertis Almo Pro AV is the largest value-added North American Professional AV distributor offering its reseller partners the most expansive range of products, managed services, technical support, and training to drive business growth. Exertis Almo delivers customized business development strategies, programs and educational events that enable partners to thrive. The business is comprised of a highly-accomplished leadership team, more than 300 employees, 12 distribution facilities, 2.7 million square feet of warehousing space, and a marketing team regarded as the most accomplished in the industry. Exertis Almo provides the specialization and resources its vendor and customer partners need coupled with deep industry relationships. For more information about Exertis Almo, go to www.exertisalmo.com.
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Media Contacts:
Traci Schaefer
TLS Communications, Inc.
630-269-4567
[email protected]