“History of Ford Audio Video”
James A. Ford, BSEE, PE
President
“Although Ford AV is based here, it is probably better known nationally than in OKC. It is a fascinating story how this quietly successful company that got started in a small local warehouse has now installed AV systems in facilities as diverse as the Houston Intercontinental Airport, the BOK Center in Tulsa, the US House of Representatives, The Wynn- Encore in Las Vegas, and the new 3.5 Million square foot headquarters for Exxon Mobil in The Woodlands, TX.”
In February of 1973 the company was founded in Oklahoma City by Claire and Jim Ford. Initially the company designed and built recording studios and rented sound systems. Based upon Jim Ford’s experience as a musician and recording engineer coupled with his degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma, the company designed and built recording studios from the ground up including acoustics, noise control, lighting, and audio electronics.
In 1974 Claire Ford left her job as a science teacher to “help out”. Claire focused on the accounting, purchasing, and management aspects while Jim engineered and directed sales.
Under Mr. Ford’s leadership, Ford AV has expanded to twelve locations nationally and has gained an international reputation for quality, affordability and professionalism.
Mr. Ford has overseen the company’s operations since its inception. He closely guides most of the projects including airports, stadiums, convention centers, and corporate/governmental audiovisual and security systems. He is highly experienced in the use of acoustical and sound system computer modeling for integration of sound reinforcement systems, noise control, and room acoustics.
Mr. Ford has taught certification courses for the National Systems Contractors Association. He has written and published articles on a broad range of industry trade publications, including Sound and Video Contractor News, Mix Magazine, Modern Recording, and Creator Magazine. He has been featured in both Bloomberg Businessweek and Money Magazine.
Ford AV has been awarded and is currently providing several of the largest AV systems ever installed in the US.
Video makeup
Chair of the Day
Patrick Rooney is chairman and controlling shareholder of First NationalBank of Oklahoma. He serves as president of the Last Frontier Council, Boy Scouts of America and chairman of the Oklahoma Student Loan Authority. He is the past chairman of The Education and Employment Ministry (TEEM). Mr. Rooney also serves as a director for Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) and the Oklahoma Medical Center Foundation. Mr. Rooney serves as a trustee for MAPS for Kids and the Inasmuch Foundation. Mr. Rooney has degrees in English and economics from Trinity University. He and his wife, Marianne, have three sons, Patrick, Turner and Matthew.