We chatted to our Creative Industries Technician Bert Walker about his role, an integral part of College life where no two days are the same!
What inspired you to work in Creative Industries?
My passion for the Creative Industry started as a teenager playing drums in bands, but also absorbing shows, concerts, films, events - and wondering how it all pieced together from start to finish. I wanted to do that! To put together productions as it connects people through watching a performance. To find that out, I studied Performing Arts Production at school, before studying Music Technology here at South Thames College. It opened my eyes to the world of Production and Creatives.
What does a typical day in the life of a creative industries technician look like?
A typical day varies! I start with admin, kit preparation and hand out equipment. I'm then on the move to either support specific departments, demonstrate equipment to students, or I work on jobs for all areas. The day ends with collecting equipment, preparing equipment for the next day/s. There can be critical repairs, problem solving or troubleshooting to do at any time. There can also be a range of events to set up, such as shows, open days etc.
What do you like most about working at South Thames College?
Supporting the students in bringing their projects to life. Seeing the quality of students work become closer to a professional standard through developing their skills and ability to use the equipment. I also enjoy collaborating with other departments which is exciting, refreshes your interest and presents a new set of challenges/ projects to work on.
Any notable achievements you are particularly proud of?
I've spent two years getting our recording studios BSS system upgraded. This enables all studios to be used simultaneously, and flexibly. Our Recording Studios are still a work in progress, with plans to add a hybrid studio, improving acoustic treatment, and adding decor to inspire students creativity.
In 2020, as part of the move from the West side of the building, I worked with TedAV installations to design and build our new Theatre for Creative Industries. This was a huge project from start to finish. My role was to work out what spec we needed, how to re use our existing equipment and pair it with new equipment.
In May, myself and Max Cervellino (Access & HNC Music Lecturer) set up an internship for our Access to Music students. The students volunteered as Assistant Technicians for technical support and ensured the department ran smoothly. We are now running the internship all year, and aim to keep it as a regular project for Creative Industries. This project allowed the students to gain a holistic perspective of the department and the value of Technicians within a team.
What advice would you give to students looking to get into the creative industries sector?
Seek opportunities through college, local groups, charities, community centres, schools, - work on non paid projects. This will help you to build a portfolio of your experience and shows your commitment. Networking, even if there's a tenuous link to knowing someone in the industry, it can be a way in. Also, workshops and training courses are a great way to continue gaining skills while looking for work
Explore our Creative Industires courses below:
