INNOVATOR PROFILES
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KIERAN PHILLIPS Job title Director of sales and marketing Company CJP Broadcast Service Solutions Ltd
How did you get into AV? My journey into the AV industry began when I took up an opportunity to join the family business. The decision was driven by a keen interest in the innovative technologies shaping content creation in the film and TV industry, particularly the critical role of AV in this evolution. Leveraging a background in sales and marketing, I was able to swiftly adapt and make significant contributions to this dynamic field. What are you currently working on? We’re currently engaged in several studio system integration projects at CJP. These range from corporate applications to educational facilities, encompassing traditional broadcast, virtual production and even motion capture technologies. Favourite project? It’s challenging to choose a favourite, but the Sunderland University project, shortlisted for an AV Award in education, stands out. This was a comprehensive project covering a broad spectrum of technologies from traditional broadcast
rapidly evolving, so staying abreast of new technologies and trends is crucial. Seek out hands-on experience through placements or internships, especially in areas like virtual production, which is becoming increasingly important. Also, don’t underestimate the value of cross-disciplinary knowledge – understanding how AV technology intersects with other fields can open up innovative career paths. needs to foster talent through partnerships with educational sectors, mirroring practices from the broadcast and film industries” demo – to the ‘interest’ of several of the employees – and walked out with the order, which was very satisfying. What does the future hold for the AV industry? One good thing about the AV industry: it’s growing and constantly changing. From the way generations watch or listen to video and music, to how audio and video is created on phones or using AI. Tools are so easily accessible, and the amount of content created on a daily basis is massive. With the ease of creating video, and new jobs it has made and will continue to make, the future is endless. One thing that will happen is the industry will change, AI will have a huge influence on creating content – both good and bad. What advice would you give to someone starting a career in AV tech? Go for it, be open to learn and change as there are new roles created frequently, find your niche and dive in. The AV industry
to virtual production. Another notable project was with Solent University, where we implemented cutting-edge camera tracking, a state-of-the-art LED stage and installed the first Mimik lighting panels in a UK educational facility. What does the future hold for the AV industry? The AV industry is at a pivotal point, especially with the widening skills gap. To remain relevant and thrive, the industry needs to foster talent through partnerships with educational sectors, mirroring practices from the broadcast and film industries. This will ensure a steady flow of skilled professionals, infusing fresh ideas and perspectives. Additionally, the growth in virtual production, eco-friendly studio technologies and cross-disciplinary collaborations will significantly shape the industry’s future. What advice would you give to someone starting a career in AV tech? For those starting in AV tech, my advice is to embrace the continuous learning aspect of the field. The AV industry is
KAREN WALKER Job title VP camera motion systems Company Ross Video
How did you get into AV? I ended up in this industry by accident. I studied engineering and worked several jobs predominantly in the commercial side in product management. I wanted to do something to utilise my engineering skills more and looked for commercial roles with more techy With the ease of creating video – and new jobs it’s made and will continue to make – the future is endless. AI will have a huge influence on creating content”
products, and I found myself working with a manufacturer of robotics in the broadcast space. So, several years later, I am still here. It’s great fun and an interesting industry, and I still get to geek out every day. What are you currently working on? I can’t tell you! But it’s completely innovative and will revolutionise our industry. I am lucky that I get to work on several projects involving AI and pure hardware products. Favourite project? I’ve had several favourite projects, from developing new hardware products for customers, which I love, to software solutions like talent tracking, where we launched the first AI product from Ross Video. Working on new studios with customers and assisting them with getting the best solutions is also a highlight. There was one example in Mexico: I was called in last minute to do a demo. I had to set up the kit and
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