A Message From The Founder

The following message was written by Dennis L. Gunn, BC-HIS, Founder of the Hearing Aid Academy, prior to his passing. His words continue to reflect the heart, mission, and purpose upon which the Academy was built.

In reflecting on my early years, I often think back to the challenges I faced as a young man with a growing family during difficult economic times. Many of my friends were dealing with employment struggles just as serious as those we continue to see today.

Some were bright, capable individuals with college degrees, yet found themselves unemployed, underemployed, or forced into low-paying work simply to get by. At that time, there were no online training options and very few vocational pathways available to help people rebuild their futures.

Years later, the world again finds itself facing similar uncertainty—this time on a global scale. Once more, there is a generation of intelligent, motivated individuals, including university graduates, standing in employment lines, discouraged and unsure of what lies ahead.

I learned an important lesson during those early years. Some of my friends, despite their talents, were never able to bridge the gap back to the careers and incomes they once hoped for. Life moved forward, responsibilities grew, and opportunities never quite returned. They became defined by circumstances rather than potential.

My own life took a different turn because I was fortunate enough to enter the hearing instrument dispensing profession. A trusted friend took me under his wing, educated me, and showed me what was possible through hard work, persistence, and service to others. That single act of mentorship changed my life and secured my family’s future.

Not everyone has access to a mentor like that—someone established in a profession that remains strong even during hard times, and willing to invest their time and knowledge in another person’s success.

That belief became the foundation of the Hearing Aid Academy.

Being a professional hearing instrument specialist is not easy, but it is deeply rewarding. It offers meaningful work, financial stability, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives—now and well into the future.

If you are facing an important career decision, I encourage you to carefully research the Hearing Instrument Specialist profession. It was the right path for me, and it continues to be a life-changing opportunity for many others today.

The Academy was created to remove unnecessary barriers to entry. Relationships were built with leading employers in the hearing healthcare industry, and a comprehensive professional-level training program was developed—one that can be completed online in approximately 3 to 6 months, with flexible tuition options.

These may be challenging times, but it has always been my hope that the Hearing Aid Academy could be part of the solution.

Here’s to your success.