Curb College students had the opportunity to learn from top industry professionals in the audio engineering field on Monday, February 21. Dream Jobs: Audio Production explored the many different career paths students may explore using their degrees. This panel was organized by the Office of Career & Professional Development’s Caroline Melby Rupard, who works specifically with Curb College students wishing to start a career in the entertainment and music business.
Panelists included Mark McBryde, Jim Yakabuski, Jen Miller and Scott Gerow.
McBryde is a Belmont alumnus and Foley artist based in Los Angeles, California. As a Foley artist, McBryde utilizes his musical abilities and audio engineering knowledge to design sound for film/TV. He advised students on ways to navigate the LA industry and get their first start in sound design.
Yakabuski represened the live sound industry with his extensive experience in live sound engineering ranging from monitor mixing for Aerosmith to running front of house for Van Halen, as well as a past Superbowl halftime show. He is currently working for Solotech, which provides production for tours all around the world. His advice for students was to stay grounded in work ethic and the intricacies of client relations.
Producer Jen Miller served as the third panelist representing the producer and songwriter career path. Miller has paved the path for many female engineers working towards a career in the R&B and pop genre. As an accomplished producer, Miller shared tips for developing high quality client relations and finding ways to get the best recording despite tough studio scenarios.
Gerow, owner of Battery Lane Studios, rounded off the panel representing one of the more popular career paths for the audio engineering students. Gerow owns his own studio where he acts as engineer, producer and songwriter. He has previously worked with artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Devin Dawson, Dylan Scott and more. In addition to his work with artists, Gerow has written songs for dozens of major TV shows. He shared important tips for getting started in a career path as a studio engineer and successful writer.
The panel was moderated by Emily Pikul, recent graduate of the Audio Engineering Master’s program.
