In an era defined by hybrid work and digital transformation, SKC Communications’ story exemplifies how regional expertise can evolve into global influence. Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, SKC specialized in unified communications and collaboration solutions, integrating video, voice, AV systems, headsets, and managed services for enterprise and government clients. The company’s commitment to seamless communication earned partnerships with industry leaders such as Cisco, Microsoft, Zoom, Avaya, and RingCentral, establishing SKC as a trusted provider across the central and eastern United States.
By the early 2020s, the demand for cloud-based voice services, video conferencing, and integrated communication platforms surged. SKC’s decades of experience in AV integration and UCaaS positioned it as a strategic asset for organizations navigating hybrid work. In late 2021, AVI‑SPL, a global digital enablement provider, acquired SKC Communications. The acquisition expanded AVI‑SPL’s U.S. footprint, integrated SKC’s expertise into its service portfolio, and enhanced hybrid work capabilities for Fortune 100 companies. Post-merger, SKC’s operations merged into AVI‑SPL’s global network, offering 24/7 support and tools like the Symphony platform, while the SKC brand itself became inactive as operations consolidated.
This article traces SKC’s origins, explores the strategic context of the acquisition, and examines how the merger reshaped unified communications and collaboration services for enterprises across the United States.
Origins and Early Growth
SKC Communications began its journey in the late 1970s with a focus on designing, building, and managing technologies that enhanced business collaboration. Initially serving regional clients in Kansas, the company quickly gained recognition for its ability to integrate voice, video, and AV systems into cohesive solutions tailored to enterprise needs. Over time, SKC expanded its offerings to include cloud voice services, IP telephony, headsets, and managed services, positioning itself as a full-spectrum communications partner.
The company’s growth was marked by strategic partnerships with leading technology providers. Cisco, Microsoft, Zoom, Avaya, and RingCentral became key collaborators, enabling SKC to deliver solutions that were interoperable, reliable, and scalable. These partnerships reinforced SKC’s reputation as a provider that could bridge the gap between complex technology and practical business use, delivering high-quality support and innovation.
By the 2010s, SKC had established a network of regional offices across central and eastern U.S. cities, including Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, New York, Oklahoma City, and Omaha. This regional expansion allowed SKC to serve a broad client base while maintaining its commitment to personalized, high-touch service. Their work encompassed complex installations for corporate boardrooms, government facilities, educational campuses, and other mission-critical environments.
Expertise in Unified Communications
Unified communications and collaboration (UCC) became the cornerstone of SKC’s operations. The company specialized in integrating voice, video, messaging, conferencing, and collaboration tools into seamless platforms. This integration allowed enterprises to enhance efficiency, reduce operational friction, and support hybrid work environments with reliable and scalable systems.
SKC’s services were particularly valued for their customization and adaptability. Organizations could implement systems that met specific operational requirements while benefiting from ongoing management and support. By focusing on high-quality integration, SKC distinguished itself from competitors that offered off-the-shelf solutions with limited flexibility.
Certifications and recognition, such as Avaya Platinum Channel Partner status, demonstrated SKC’s technical expertise and commitment to industry standards. These accolades reassured clients that SKC could deliver complex communication solutions with precision and reliability.
The Strategic Context: Rise of Hybrid Work
The late 2010s and early 2020s saw a dramatic shift in the way organizations operated. Hybrid work models, blending in-office and remote collaboration, transformed enterprise communications priorities. Businesses needed integrated systems that could connect employees, teams, and clients seamlessly across geographies and devices.
Unified communications as a service (UCaaS) emerged as a critical solution, combining voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools into a single, cloud-based platform. Organizations sought providers capable of delivering both technology and ongoing support, including monitoring, optimization, and remote management. SKC’s experience in AV integration, cloud voice services, and IP telephony made it a natural partner for organizations navigating these changes.
The growing emphasis on hybrid collaboration also increased competitive pressures. Larger global providers began acquiring regional specialists to enhance service capabilities and geographic reach. In this environment, SKC’s expertise became a strategic asset for a larger player seeking to expand its footprint in the United States.
Acquisition by AVI‑SPL
In late 2021, AVI‑SPL, a global digital enablement provider, acquired SKC Communications. The acquisition integrated SKC’s expertise in unified communications, UCaaS, and voice solutions into AVI‑SPL’s global operations, which span 52 offices. By early 2022, the integration was largely completed, creating a combined entity capable of delivering advanced collaboration solutions to over 80% of Fortune 100 companies.
For AVI‑SPL, acquiring SKC provided multiple advantages. First, it strengthened the company’s capabilities in cloud voice services and IP telephony, complementing its existing AV integration and video conferencing offerings. Second, it expanded AVI‑SPL’s geographic reach across central and eastern U.S. regions, adding local resources, client access points, and operational scale. Third, the acquisition brought a team experienced in delivering high-touch, customized communications solutions, enhancing AVI‑SPL’s service portfolio.
John Zettel, CEO of AVI‑SPL, highlighted the strategic value, emphasizing that combining SKC’s expertise with AVI‑SPL’s global resources created “the deepest portfolio and most advanced services available to customers over wider geographies.”
Integration and Operational Impact
Post-acquisition, SKC Communications ceased operating independently, with its operations and resources fully integrated into AVI‑SPL. This included harmonizing technology platforms, sales channels, and customer support systems. The integration allowed SKC’s former clients to access AVI‑SPL’s 24/7 Global Service Operations Centers, which provide remote monitoring, proactive support, and system optimization for UC and AV deployments.
The merger also enabled broader adoption of the Symphony platform, AVI‑SPL’s proprietary tool for remote technology management. Symphony allows organizations to monitor device health, schedule meetings, analyze usage patterns, and manage communications infrastructure efficiently. This combination of expertise and technology strengthened service consistency, reduced downtime, and enhanced operational insights for clients.
AVI‑SPL’s acquisition of SKC reflects broader industry trends toward consolidation, scale, and globalized service delivery. Enterprises increasingly favor providers that can deliver end-to-end solutions, support distributed workforces, and ensure reliable, high-quality collaboration experiences across diverse locations.
Industry Implications
The integration of SKC Communications into AVI‑SPL has broader implications for the communications technology sector. First, it underscores the importance of scale in delivering unified communications services. Customers demand global reach, consistent service, and comprehensive lifecycle management, which smaller regional providers often struggle to provide alone.
Second, the acquisition strengthens AVI‑SPL’s competitive position. By adding SKC’s cloud voice and IP telephony expertise, the company can compete more effectively with other major integrators and managed services providers. Third, it highlights the value of deep vendor partnerships, as SKC’s long-standing relationships with Cisco, Microsoft, Zoom, and Avaya enhance the combined entity’s ability to offer interoperable, best-in-class solutions.
For customers, the merger offers streamlined vendor management, access to global support, and enhanced operational tools. However, it also presents challenges for smaller competitors, who must differentiate themselves through specialization, vertical focus, or highly customized service offerings.
Looking Ahead
As hybrid and remote work models continue to evolve, demand for integrated communication solutions is unlikely to diminish. Emerging technologies, including AI-driven collaboration tools, immersive conferencing experiences, and advanced analytics, will further shape enterprise communications. Providers like AVI‑SPL, enriched by SKC’s expertise, are well-positioned to lead this transformation, delivering innovative solutions that connect people seamlessly across digital and physical spaces.
The integration of SKC Communications demonstrates that strategic acquisitions can amplify regional expertise, expand global reach, and create more robust solutions for enterprise clients. As organizations prioritize collaboration and productivity, the combined capabilities of SKC and AVI‑SPL exemplify the potential of unified communications to drive operational efficiency and business innovation.
Conclusion
SKC Communications’ trajectory—from a regional unified communications specialist to a core component of AVI‑SPL’s global operations—illustrates the transformative power of strategic mergers in technology services. The 2021 acquisition allowed SKC’s expertise to scale, providing clients with enhanced cloud voice services, AV integration, and 24/7 operational support. In a world increasingly dependent on seamless digital collaboration, the SKC-AVI‑SPL integration highlights how legacy expertise, when combined with global infrastructure, can redefine enterprise communication strategies and set a standard for hybrid work enablement.
FAQs
What did SKC Communications specialize in?
SKC specialized in unified communications, cloud voice, AV systems, IP telephony, and collaboration solutions for enterprise and government clients.
When was SKC Communications acquired by AVI‑SPL?
The acquisition occurred in late 2021, with integration largely completed by early 2022.
How did the acquisition benefit SKC’s clients?
Clients gained access to AVI‑SPL’s 24/7 global support, Symphony management platform, and expanded geographic reach.
Does SKC Communications still operate as an independent brand?
No, SKC now operates fully under AVI‑SPL, and its original brand is inactive.
Which industries benefited from SKC’s solutions?
SKC served enterprises and government clients, including sectors like healthcare, education, corporate offices, and municipal organizations.
