About Us
Automation Arts Inc. was founded in 1993 by Brad Thiess. Brad’s passion for electronics emerged early in his life while watching his father fix radios and televisions for customers in his shop in the basement of their home in Northern WI. After years of experience working in the building and electronics industry, Brad was determined to bring high quality custom audio and video systems to the Madison Wisconsin area. On March 1, 1993 he founded AudioCraft Interiors. After starting the business in his home, the company moved into its first office of 800 sq.ft. in Middleton later that year. The company’s reputation for great, innovative systems, and commitment to outstanding quality and customer service was rewarded by a steady increase in clients. Soon this one man show grew into a thriving small business.
AudioCraft Interiors' repertoire of services continued to grow beyond audio and video. And in 1997 AudioCraft Interiors changed its name to Automation Arts and became a corporation. Services included Home Theater, multi room audio video systems, telephone systems, structured wiring, and automation systems. And the company was now doing a lot of commercial work as well. In 2004, at the request of many of our clients, we added a division specifically for security systems. This made their shopping experience easier and more complete. As the Electronics industry had shifted to share key components with the IT world, we added a full service Information Technology department offering our residential clients computers and hardware, home networking. We quickly expanded into commercial IT services based on the Managed Services model. Managed Services provides our clients with a comprehensive IT package without unexpected expenses.
Today we are located across the road from the Middleton Airport in a beautiful 8300 sq. ft. building custom designed just for us. It allows us to have a great place to demonstrate our services and products for both commercial and residential clients. Automation Arts is comprised of dedicated professionals committed to delivering the best in customer service and systems of the highest value. We continue to grow because of these people and the expert knowledge and outstanding service they provide our clients. Our focus on quality begins with each employee. We offer extensive training including hands on manufacturer certification and CEDIA (Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association) certification. CEDIA certification is a multi level, credit based track of continuing education that is recognized throughout out industry. A commitment to integrity, hard work, precision, and great customer service are mandatory for everyone in our organization. It is this level of commitment that has earned us recognition as one of the “Top 100” systems integrators in the US.