
However, Jerry’s enduring legacy lies in the company that bears his name and the products he created. In the mid-1970s, prompted by a request from his pastor to help those with hearing loss in the congregation, Jerry conceived a revolutionary wireless listening system – The Personal PA™ Broadcasting System. By broadcasting the service from an AM radio transmitter, listeners with a pocket radio receiver and earphones could sit anywhere they chose, control their own volume, and hear the service directly without bothersome background noise. However, the FCC issued revisions in 1975 that limited the power of unlicensed low-frequency transmitters. With two trips to the FCC, Jerry negotiated a nationwide frequency for hearing assistance transmitters to operate with increased power.

Apart from technical innovations, Jerry also established a unique culture that lives on at Williams AV. His deep faith guided him to create a work environment that was family-oriented, professional, and respectful, with a strong service orientation. A true servant leader, Jerry fostered a “Golden Rule” approach within the company and especially with customers that lives on today.

Nearly 50 years since its inception, Williams Sound, now Williams AV, remains dedicated to ensuring public spaces are accessible, with assistive listening products at the core of its business. Moreover, the company has broadened Jerry’s goal of enhancing communication through assistive devices for language interpretation, wireless intercom, guided tours, and entertainment. Today, the company’s products are available in more than 60 countries, expanding Jerry’s vision to connect people through improved communication.
The name Williams has become synonymous with innovation, quality, and customer service, a testament to the strong foundation Jerry built. His legacy lives on in the millions of lives touched by Williams Sound products and his ongoing pursuit of excellence, and the company continues today. Jerry Williams will be remembered as a visionary founder, technical pioneer, and compassionate leader whose impact will continue to reverberate through the decades.
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About Williams AV
Headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Williams AV leads the way in innovative design and manufacturing in professional and consumer assistive communication technology.
Established in 1976, the company pioneered the first assistive listening system, recognizing that true understanding goes beyond merely hearing words. Williams AV’s technology breaks down communication barriers, enhancing intelligibility and fostering meaningful connections. The comprehensive product portfolio includes assistive listening, interpretation, intercom, guided tours, and entertainment offerings, reflecting the company’s commitment to creating seamless and inclusive communication experiences.
Williams AV, whose name is synonymous with innovation, quality, and service, has a global network of distributors and integrators spanning over 60 countries. This network designs and installs the products in venues ranging from classrooms and courtrooms to houses of worship and stadiums, while consumer products are used daily in homes worldwide.
Learn more at www.WilliamsAV.com
Press Contact
Nancy Crowe | Marketing Director
+1 952.224.7706 | nancyc@williamsav.com