Jamie Briesemeister is chief executive officer and co-founder of Integration Controls in St. Louis, Mo. She serves as an advocate for technology considerations and is a CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI), avid volunteer, member of the Industry Relations Advisory Council, and previous chair of the Professional Development Advisory Council. For our newest column, Integrator of the Week, Connected Design spoke to her to find out more about her background, her favorite products and more.
What made you decide to go into technology and start your own company?
Briesemeister: “After burning out in my first career rather quickly, I had the opportunity to create a company with my husband that simplifies and enriches people’s way of life. Until then, I had never been ‘into’ technology and, truly, I’d rather not fuss with it if I don’t have to. It’s why we have a company that provides such a concierge approach to our clients: to help other people like me!”
What is your favorite product or solution right now in the industry?
Briesemeister: “Full-spectrum adaptable lighting that can adjust in color temperature (or become colorized) and dims without flickering is one of my most favorite solutions for lighting spaces. It’s dynamic in that it can adjust for different users or interior space plans over time with options for control that go beyond a toggle switch: keypads, voice control, smart app control, near-field, etc. Of all of the solutions we sell and technologies we see, lighting is the one that makes the most difference to the end user since they access it every single day.”
Why is it important to you to stay active within the community?
Briesemeister: “So many people have offered their time, guidance, and advice throughout my 17 years in this industry, with CEDIA playing a large role. The annual Expo and ongoing summits, gatherings, and educational seminars keep me connected to the industry in ways that simply ‘being a consumer’ of the industry doesn’t offer. I’m fueled by this connection, the gratitude in giving back, and the pursuit for positive change for the whole industry.”
What has been your favorite installation to date?
Briesemeister: “‘A Quintessential Renovation’ or as the designer called it, ‘The Heritage House.’ We blended old-world architecture with new-world technology in a massive renovation/addition project that highlighted invisible speakers, a Lutron lighting system, Forbes & Lomax antique brass toggle switches, and an outdoor audio system that could rock the block! Almost everything is invisible, hidden, or disguised – and it works beautifully.”
What is one fun fact about you that isn’t industry related?
Briesemeister: “About 20 years ago, I found a passion for ceramics and ended up buying myself a wheel after earning my Master’s degree. I loved it and made a lot of gifts and other pieces, but when we moved, I didn’t have the right space for it and had to put it in storage… where it’s been for 16 years! I’ve made tea pots and saki sets, but I most love a functional piece we use every week: the egg bowl!”
