Philip Courtney | Solutions Design Manager | Electrosonic
Philip Courtney, the Solutions Design Manager at Electrosonic, has carved a remarkable career in the Audio Visual (AV) Integration and Design industry. His professional journey is an inspiring story of creativity, dedication, and a passion for merging technology with artistry. Over the years, Philip has taken on diverse roles in sales, design, engineering, live production, and broadcast video. This extensive experience, coupled with his innate musical talent, has shaped him into a leader who thrives on innovation and collaboration. Philip’s introduction to the AV industry was not a straightforward path but rather a journey defined by discovery and ambition. Before pursuing formal education at Full Sail University, he gained invaluable hands-on experience that laid the foundation for his career. Studying Show Production and Touring further refined his skills and understanding of the field. At EliteX, we are proud to have Philip Courtney as part of the edition: 20 Under 40: Influential & Rising Leaders of 2024.
With over 16 years of industry experience, Philip has grown from strength to strength. Running his own business early in his career provided him with essential leadership and innovation skills. These experiences continue to guide him in his current role. Beyond his professional pursuits, Philip’s lifelong passion for music—a talent that sees him proficient in seven instruments and includes a stint as a DJ—has deeply influenced his career. Music, for him, is not just an art form but a way to connect, collaborate, and inspire. Philip’s love for music and fascination with technology’s transformative power motivated him to enter the AV industry. Music taught him invaluable lessons in collaboration and expression, which he seamlessly integrated with his growing interest in technological innovation.
“You’re either growing or you’re dying—stay curious and push boundaries.”
Studying at Full Sail University exposed Philip to the possibilities of blending creativity, technology, and artistry. These experiences sparked his passion for designing immersive audiovisual environments and engineering seamless productions. Whether working on groundbreaking projects or developing innovative solutions, Philip thrives on transforming ideas into reality, making his work both meaningful and rewarding. As a young leader, Philip faced the challenge of mentoring a team with varying levels of experience and expertise. Earning their trust and respect while maintaining confidence in his abilities required both self-awareness and adaptability. Philip’s approach focused on understanding the unique motivations of each team member. By tapping into their passions, he inspired them to excel and fostered a culture of collaboration and growth. He emphasizes that leadership goes beyond guiding top performers—it involves empowering every team member to reach their potential. This perspective has helped him navigate the complexities of leadership and build strong, cohesive teams.
Philip’s journey has been shaped by the collective wisdom of his peers, colleagues, and life experiences. One of his most profound influences was his grandfather, whose lessons in hard work, empathy, and accountability left a lasting impression. Working on his grandfather’s farm taught Philip resilience, gratitude, and the value of dedication—principles that underpin his professional and personal life. Throughout his career, Philip has sought advice and guidance from those around him, embracing diverse perspectives to refine his leadership style and approach. This openness to learning has been a cornerstone of his success.
Philip’s career is marked by involvement in innovative and impactful projects. Two recent endeavors stand out as milestones in his professional journey:
- COSM in Los Angeles – A revolutionary project redefining immersive audiovisual design, COSM showcases the seamless integration of technology and creativity. Watching this groundbreaking vision come to life has been an inspiring experience for Philip.
- Meow Wolf in Houston, Texas – This artistic project invites audiences to explore and immerse themselves in an otherworldly experience. Philip’s role in bringing such bold and imaginative concepts to life exemplifies his passion for creating unforgettable experiences.
Although he often works on projects he cannot publicly discuss, Philip takes pride in being part of a “secret society” of cutting-edge technology and creativity. Each project reflects his love for the industry and his commitment to excellence.
“Leadership means fostering collaboration and growth for everyone.”
The AV industry is ever-evolving, requiring constant learning and adaptability. For Philip, staying motivated involves embracing this dynamism and committing to personal and professional growth. He believes in the philosophy of continuous learning—whether it’s advancing technical skills, refining soft skills, or gaining insights from others. A former CEO once told him, “You’re either growing or you’re dying,” a statement that resonates deeply with Philip. This mindset drives him to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and maintain an insatiable curiosity.
Philip identifies several key leadership qualities that have guided him:
- Empathy and Understanding – Building trust and tailoring management approaches to individual team members’ needs are crucial for fostering a positive team dynamic.
- Competence and Willingness to Learn – Leaders must possess the skills needed to guide their teams effectively. When gaps in knowledge arise, it’s essential to step up and learn to provide the necessary support.
- Lead by Example – Demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a readiness to grow inspires team members to follow suit.
Philip’s leadership philosophy revolves around creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work. Living in Denver, Philip enjoys the best of both worlds—vibrant city life and serene mountain escapes. This environment allows him to find balance, recharge, and maintain a healthy perspective. Philip prioritizes setting boundaries to ensure he steps away from work daily. He also encourages his team to do the same, recognizing that rest and rejuvenation are essential for sustained productivity and well-being. Whether it’s a walk, a hike, or downtime with loved ones, Philip believes in the importance of creating space for personal growth and relaxation. Innovation is at the core of Philip’s work and leadership style. In the AV industry, staying ahead means embracing new technologies, experimenting with bold ideas, and challenging the status quo.
For Philip, innovation is not just a buzzword—it’s a mindset that drives every project. By taking calculated risks and pushing the limits of possibility, he ensures that his work delivers impactful results that exceed client expectations. Philip’s commitment to growth extends beyond his technical expertise. He believes that leadership involves understanding people, embracing challenges, and staying curious. One of his favorite ways to learn is through reading, which he finds more engaging and impactful than audiobooks. He also values the lessons learned from failures, viewing them as opportunities to adapt and grow. This approach helps him stay open-minded and fearless, continually evolving as a leader.
“People, technology, and artistry together transform concepts into reality.”
Philip Courtney’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and perseverance. As a Solutions Design Manager at Electrosonic, he continues to push boundaries, inspire teams, and create experiences that leave a lasting impact. By combining his love for music and technology with a commitment to innovation, Philip has become a leader who not only excels in his field but also inspires those around him. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring professionals, showcasing the transformative power of dedication, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.