An audio production program can often lead to various career paths, depending on the track you want to pursue and your goals. Completing an audio production program like the one Be On Air offers can unlock numerous opportunities for your future.
What is Audio Production?
In audio production, also known as audio engineering, an individual is responsible for the sound and software systems that create an optimal audio experience for both production and audiences.
Audio production encompasses several sectors, including podcasting, recording studios, television networks, radio networks, the film industry, and the music industry. This field allows you to explore various career opportunities and angles.
Education Recommendations for Audio Production
Pursuing an audio production diploma program is a great way to deepen your knowledge and skills in audio production. This diploma can give you the fundamental skills to enhance employability in various fields.
For example, Be On Air’s audio production program can provide you with essential skills and knowledge to become an in-demand job candidate. Their hands-on learning program is six months* long and includes a curriculum on audio acoustics and electronics, studio recording- tracking, audio components and equipment, studio recording- mixing and mastering, analog and digital consoles, fundamentals of the music business, studio recording- pro tools environment, and an audio engineering capstone project that will allow you to showcase all of the skills you’ve learned.
Necessary Skills for Audio Production
Depending on the area of audio production you pursue, your roles and responsibilities may vary. However, anyone pursuing a career in audio production will need skills such as:
Problem-Solving: At any given point in your career, a problem with equipment, software programs, or systems may occur. Knowing how to navigate an issue that arises is an essential element of an audio production role. By obtaining an audio production diploma, you will be able to learn how to troubleshoot and navigate issues as they occur.
Critical Thinking: In audio production, situations often require quick thinking and immediate solutions to achieve desired results. Programs like Be On Air can help teach you how to adapt to these situations. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from instructors with real-world experience.
Dexterity: The role of audio production is very hands-on. You will do a great deal of manual work, including facilitating the setup of equipment, adjusting knobs on boards, connecting wires, and tearing down equipment in an organized manner.
Ability to Communicate: Communication is an essential skill set within audio production. You will often be working with a team, so it’s necessary to communicate effectively and efficiently and listen to what your other team members say to provide the best experience possible.
Sound Monitoring: To ensure audiences and viewers receive the best experience possible, it’s important to monitor volume levels and sound quality to ensure a seamless experience.
Multi-Tasking: You will face situations where you’re simultaneously working with many different pieces of equipment, so having hand-eye coordination and the ability to think on your feet will ensure everything goes according to plan.
Understanding Technology: A dynamic aspect of this role is being comfortable with computer technology. Many of the programs used within audio production rely heavily on computers, technical hardware, and software. Completing an audio production program, such as the one through Be On Air, will allow you to learn about many different programs and systems.
Strong Listening Ability: Within audio production, you will need excellent hearing abilities to develop a sound that meets the needs of your audience and clients.
Careers within Audio Production
Depending on your area of interest within an audio production, you can pursue a variety of different areas, such as:
Board Operator: A board operator manages the control board during live events such as performances, sporting events, or broadcasts. Their role involves handling various switches that control microphones, lights, and special effects. They also take directions from the production team to adjust these elements in real-time.
Sound Technician: A sound technician oversees the audio during a live event or a recording session. They mix the sound, adjust volumes accordingly, and prepare the studio/stage and test equipment.
Production Assistant: A production assistant is a professional who assists a studio or a performance by working with team members of the production crew, driving the talent on set, setting up the necessary equipment, scheduling, and conveying messages from directors to performers.
Sound Engineer: A sound engineer is essential to maintain recording equipment. They will work with a team to ensure that equipment functions optimally, including mics, recording equipment, and audio recording devices.
Radio Operator: To provide a seamless radio broadcast, a radio operator assists with transmitting programming to receivers both in and out.
Audiovisual Technician: To ensure high-performance equipment for studios and live events, an audiovisual technician assists with testing equipment functions, troubleshoots any issues, and potentially sets up instruments and sound equipment for events happening in real-time.
Studio Manager: A studio manager oversees the operations of a recording studio, including when artists come in to work with producers, hiring and training staff, and choosing what equipment to purchase.
Editors: Throughout a performance or recording session, an editor corrects sounds. This role is often seen in a media film to ensure the sound is as clear as possible.
Broadcast Engineer: A broadcast engineer assists with controlling the soundboard to send electronic signals for a TV or radio broadcast. Additionally, they maintain the hardware and software for stations to ensure that they meet industry standards.
Career Growth
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2022 and 2033, broadcast, sound, and video technicians will experience three percent career growth**. They also determined that the average median pay in 2023 was $54,160 annually**.
Act Now
A vibrant career is on the horizon for you. Start taking steps today to explore what audio production is and program opportunities. Be On Air offers an engaging diploma program that equips you with the skills and practical experience necessary to stand out in the industry.
Resources/Additional Information
*Program length when completed in normal time.
** https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/broadcast-and-sound-engineering-technicians.htm
https://beonair.erstaging.site/programs/audio-production
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/audio-production-and-engineering-careers
https://www.coursera.org/articles/audio-engineering
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-audio-engineer