About

Mills Technologies provides state-of-the-art smart home solutions and entertainment systems throughout the Chicagoland area. A third-generation family-run business, Mills has been providing consumer electronics solutions for over 80 years.

Mills is a Home Technology Association Certified Luxury Provider, an affiliate member of AIA Chicago and is also a member of the Consumer Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA).

Decades as Chicago's Technology Experts

Mills Recording Company was founded in 1939 and specialized in wire recording and playback machines. It began as a recording studio and at times served singers such as Andy Williams and Bing Crosby. During World War II, the studio recorded many patriotic messages for radio broadcast.

For five decades the firm operated retail electronics stores on Michigan Avenue in the heart of downtown Chicago. In addition to advising clients on high-end electronics, Mills also offered professional recording and rental services to business and government agencies. Reflecting a reputation as Chicago’s consumer technology experts, Mills was featured annually on Siskel & Ebert’s Holiday Gift Guide selection program to educate viewers of new home technology trends.

In 1994, Mills Custom Audio/Video was formed, focusing exclusively on the custom install business to best serve our customers. We boast over two centuries of combined industry experience. Mills provides much more than audio and video solutions - we provide integrated technologies for our clients, including control and automation, whole house music, motorized window treatments and lighting (control, design consulting and LED fixtures). In early 2018, we rebranded ourselves as Mills Technologies because we feel it better represents all of the solutions and services that we provide to our clients. As we always have, Mills continues to provide our residential and commercial clients with turnkey technology solutions, including design, installation and integration, service and ongoing system maintenance.

Mills Recording Company photo from 1961

Photo from 1961 by Laird A. Scott

Management Team

Bryan Mills

President and Sales Manager

Bryan represents the third generation of ownership of the Mills business.  He has run the company since 2009, expanding the overall size and capabilities of the company, especially system design and customer support.

Bryan started his career in product design and engineering, focusing on the integration of form and function of items, including roles at design firm IDEO and Illinois Tool Works’ Tech Center. He held management and operations roles at Fortune 500 company Eaton Corporation, working on projects varying from the commercialization of hybrid vehicle platforms to strategic planning and mergers and acquisitions.  As a director at a national retailer, Bryan consulted small business owners on customer experience, operations, and growth strategies. Looking for an opportunity to return to small business and leverage his technical background and operations skills, Bryan took over leadership at Mills.

Bryan is regarded as a thought leader throughout the technology integration industry.  He is a Board Member of Azione Unlimited, one of the industry’s largest buying groups.  He serves as a Dealer Advisory Board Member for audio pioneer Sonos.  He is a volunteer for the Consumer Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA), having helped develop a CEU course for design partners.  He is also a CEDIA Outreach Instructor, and over the past decade has presented to hundreds of architects, interior designers, and builders on numerous technology topics.  He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN), having presented to the Chicago chapter, as well as at the CRAN national conference on the topic of better integration of technology in the home.

Bryan has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University with a concentration in Design. He resides in Chicago’s North Shore with his wife, four kids, and dog.

Brendan Tidwell-Cullen

Chief Operating Officer

Brendan Tidwell Cullen, joined Mills in early 2011. He brings 10 years of experience in audiovisual design and engineering in a wide array of projects, including hospitality, education, commercial, high-end residential and performance venues.

Prior to joining Mills, Brendan worked for a large commercial technology systems designer, audiovisual systems integrator, rental and staging technician, and theatrical sound designer. His current responsibilities include technologies systems design.

Brendan has a BS in Communications from Northwestern University, with a major in Theatre and a certificate in Sound Design. He holds a CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) certification from InfoComm International and is a certified Crestron Digital Media Designer. He resides in Chicago, and enjoys cheering on Northwestern Athletics with his family through good seasons and bad.

Jack Piehn

Engineering Manager

Jack joined Mills in 2017.  He brings 30 years of industry knowledge and experience with him – he started his career at a specialty audio shop, working with everything from car audio to hi-end tube amplifiers.  Throughout his career, Jack has worked on every aspect of a project – everything from selling to designing to pulling wire, installing equipment, and programming. 

As the head of our Engineering department, Jack is responsible for technology systems design/engineering, project documentation and quality control, development and management of technical documentation, standards, and technical asset management.

Jack’s favorite areas within the industry are lighting control, circadian lighting, and all things networks.  Outside of work, he enjoys CrossFit, traveling, hiking, and spending time in the great outdoors.

Marty Lukasik

Operations Manager

Marty Lukasik joined the Mills team in early 2016. She brings with her 30+ years of experience in operations management. Marty began in retail customer service, but has spent the majority of her career in the consumer electronics industry working in manufacturing representative firms, specializing in operations management and customer service.

Marty’s responsibilities include purchasing, billing and inventory management.

Marty resides in the far north suburbs, she enjoys gardening and the outdoors as well as spending time with her husband and three grown daughters.

Certifications and Affiliations

CertLevel_Luxury

What's different about HTA certified companies?

  • Seasoned professionals with proven technical expertise
  • World-class ongoing home automation and support
  • Endorsements from manufacturers, local Chicago and Winnetka industry peers, and design/build professionals
  • Proven, stellar business performance
  • Ability to deliver high-performance enterprise-grade computer networks
  • An exceptional reputation you can trust
cedia-logo_copper_-net-footer_172x42

CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association)

CEDIA is the global membership association that serves the custom home technology industry through advocacy, connection, and education.  CEDIA members provide technology solutions that allow their clients to experience technology that enhances their everyday lives.

CEDIA Certification is an internationally recognized set of credentials that reflect defined areas of knowledge and skills in the home technology industry. We have a number of CEDIA-certified staff, including a CEDIA Outreach Instructor who is qualified to present accredited AIA continuing education courses.

avixa_logomark-450x362

AVIXA (Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association)

Established in 1939, AVIXA has more than 11,400 enterprise and individual members, including systems integrators, dealers and distributors, consultants, programmers, live events companies, technology managers, content producers, and multimedia professionals from more than 80 countries. AVIXA members create integrated AV experiences that deliver outcomes for end users. AVIXA is a hub for professional collaboration, information, and community, and is the leading resource for AV standards, certification, training, market intelligence, and thought leadership.

AIA Chicago

AIA Chicago - Affiliate Member

Proud Member PNG FINAL

Complete Technology Solutions

 Lighting

Motorized Shades

 Wi-Fi / Networking

 

Audio

Video

Commercial & Education