Loyalist’s first class of Broadcast Engineering Technology students is entering the final semester of the three-year program. They’re poised to enter a field in which their skills will be in high demand — a profession experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. Having completed their placements with employers such as CBC, CHUM, Corus Entertainment, CTV, Dome Productions, Rogers and Sony, the graduates will be ready to meet the evolving needs of the radio, television and new media industry.
Brett Hancock, from Holland Landing, is one of the students in the class. His excitement about the skills he has acquired and the challenges ahead is evident as he describes his Loyalist experience. “What I love most about the program is the fact that there is always something new to be learned. That’s the way the technical side of the broadcast industry works. There are constant technological advancements being made to the equipment so whatever we are doing feels fresh. As soon as you grasp a new concept, there are ways to improve upon it. That’s why professionals who have been in the industry for decades are still learning new things. I think that makes our program, as well as our industry, very exciting.”
This unique program is fully accredited by the Society of Broadcast Engineers in the United States, giving Loyalist graduates the added advantage of recognized credentials throughout North America. Graduates will be prepared to design, build and manage broadcast systems, facilities and IT networks. In addition to the three main areas of concentration — electronics, IT and dedicated broadcast systems — the faculty stresses the importance of the flexibility to be part of a team or work independently, time and risk management, and technical and non-technical communication skills. As experienced professionals they are well respected within the industry, and their connections have resulted in an influential advisory committee of industry leaders. The support of this committee means that the program content is current and allows the students to benefit from access to the industry’s most exclusive equipment.
The opportunity to apply their skills while learning is made possible through a four- and eight-week work placement. Brett has already gained invaluable experience working for Dome Productions, one of North America’s leading production facilities providers. “I worked on mobile production units, which included all aspects of setting up and maintaining large units at various live events. I really enjoyed this and want to continue to work in this area when I graduate. The work environments are always changing and with each one comes new technical challenges.
“The faculty, advisory committee and my work placements have made this a great learning experience. I can’t wait to start working in the field.”
For information about Loyalist’s Broadcast Engineering Technology program click here or call (613) 969-1913, ext. 2204 — you can experience the program first hand by arranging to be a Student for the Day.