ABOUT US
From Concept to Credits: Your Total Cinema Partner
Founded in Portland, Oregon, in 1995, American Cinema Equipment (ACE) is the nation’s premier resource for comprehensive theater design, supply, and technical service. With over 100 years of combined experience, we bridge the gap between traditional cinema and modern entertainment destinations.
Comprehensive Design & Consultancy
We don't just sell equipment; we build experiences. Our team provides high-level Concept Development and Budgeting to ensure your vision is viable and scalable. We handle the technical heavy lifting, including:
Design Drawings & Specifications: Detailed planning for seamless execution.
Dine-In, Kitchen & Bar: Specialized equipment, layout, and installation for modern cinema-eateries.
Furniture & Aesthetics: Curated solutions for lounges, bars, lobbies, and even BOH office/employee spaces.
Signage & Wayfinding: Custom interior/exterior signage and poster cases, including ongoing service and repair.
Precision Project Management
Complex builds require expert oversight. ACE provides dedicated Project Management, offering rigorous tracking and reporting to keep your build on schedule and under budget.
Integrated Technology & Infrastructure
We ensure your facility is connected, secure, and immersive from the front door to the back row:
Network & Security: Robust access controls and network infrastructure.
Atmospheric Audio: Custom background paging and music systems for interiors, exteriors, bars, and lounges.
Manufacturer-Certified Technical Service: Expert installation and repair for all major projectors, servers, TMS, and audio systems.
The ACE Advantage
Award-Winning Excellence: A 6-time I.C.T.A. Dealer of the Year, ACE represents all major manufacturers in sound, seating, staging, and projection.
Rapid Fulfillment: We stock critical parts (bulbs, boards, amps) for same-day shipment.
Legacy Support: We repair equipment others won't, including film projectors and legacy Dolby servers.
Tailored Solutions: Because we work with a diverse range of manufacturers, we aren't forced to sell you a specific brand—we find the exact fit for your theater.
American Cinema Equipment: Building the future of cinema, one screen at a time.
ABOUT OUR TEAM
Scott Kimber
Scott has been a technical lead in the cinema industry since 1988, specializing in the full lifecycle of cinema development from initial design through to final installation. He brings extensive expertise in comprehensive audio design, including the implementation of immersive formats and complex system integration. As President, Scott remains committed to technical integrity and the continued evolution of the cinematic experience.
Dave Ballew
Dave has been a cornerstone of the cinema industry since 1985. His multidisciplinary approach blends technical projection mastery with innovative cinema construction and kitchen design to create seamless, world-class guest experiences.
Spencer Chao
As Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Spencer is the primary point of contact for all current and prospective clients. Having started his career at ACE as an Executive Assistant, he possesses an intimate understanding of the company’s internal operations and technical capabilities. Spencer leverages this unique perspective to provide tailored solutions and drive growth through dedicated relationship management.
Doug Sabin
A 40-year veteran of the movie theater industry, Doug specializes in driving the growth and delivery of large-scale cinema installations. As Vice President, he combines his technical background with a sales-focused approach to ensure that every project is optimized for performance and ROI. Doug is dedicated to building long-term partnerships through the successful implementation of high-specification, ambitious theatrical developments.
Patty Boucher
Patty brings over 35 years of deep industry expertise to her role as Consultant. Having previously led American Cinema Equipment as President and CEO, she now focuses on facilitating a smooth leadership transition and providing high-level advisory support. Her extensive experience and historical perspective serve as a vital resource for the executive team, ensuring the high standards she set during her presidency remain the hallmark of the company.
Joshua Davis
Joshua handles daily sales operations and client inquiries, providing expert guidance on our products and services. He focuses on building strong customer relationships through responsive communication and accurate order management. Josh’s attention to detail ensures that our clients receive the support they need to maintain successful theatrical operations.
Lauren Lyddon
Lauren is a key member of the American Cinema Equipment team, where she provides essential support to our sales operations and ensures a smooth, seamless experience for our clients. Whether she’s assisting with order logistics or coordinating between departments, Lauren brings an organized and approachable touch to the ACE front office. She is dedicated to learning the "ins and outs" of the industry and looks forward to helping our partners find the right solutions for their unique theater needs.
Zella Richardson
Zella manages the company’s accounting and billing operations, specializing in precise invoicing and financial record-keeping. She works closely with our clients to ensure all product and service orders are documented and billed with total accuracy. Zella’s meticulous approach is essential to maintaining the transparent and professional financial standards of American Cinema Equipment.
Tom McGowan
A veteran of the industry, Tom focuses on the diagnostic repair and servicing of Motorola communication equipment. He provides precise technical maintenance and support, ensuring the longevity and dependable performance of essential communication hardware for our clients.
Matt Valdez
With 40 years of industry experience, Matt possesses a comprehensive technical mastery of both modern and legacy cinema systems. His expertise spans the full spectrum of projection technology, from current digital platforms to the specialized operation and maintenance of 16mm, 35mm, and 70mm film equipment. Matt’s deep technical background ensures that our clients' equipment—regardless of format—is maintained to the highest standards of precision.
Seth Adams
As a Service Technician, Seth specializes in the integration of digital and traditional cinema technologies. Bringing a strong background in festival and theatrical projection, he is skilled in the operation and maintenance of both modern digital platforms and legacy 16mm and 35mm film equipment. Seth focuses on ensuring technical reliability across diverse formats to meet the specific exhibition needs of our clients.
For more information about our ACE team, or to get a price quote on movie theater equipment, repairs, or parts, please call (503) 285-7015, or e-mail us at ACE-Info@cinequip.com.