Aiming to create opportunities for young people to learn, train, network and develop careers in production across the live event industry, the latest move from Production Futures is an agreement struck with Martin Audio.
‘We’re particularly delighted to welcome Martin Audio as a British manufacturer,’ says Production Futures CEO, Hannah Eakins. ‘This is a forward-thinking company with a diverse workforce, and we’ve seen them transform over the past 20 years.’
Production Futures is similarly in the process of transformation, including the announcement of a new audio learning zone. Along with Martin Audio, this will debut at its September event, taking place at Production Park in Wakefield.
‘In that sense the timing couldn’t be better for Martin Audio as we receive increasing interest from budding sound engineers,’ Eakins says. ‘These learning zones have already worked really well for video and lighting.’
This step change for Production Futures – and necessity to advance the landscape – has been brought about by attendances that have exceeded 1,000 visitors (at a recent Manchester event), representing 55 colleges and universities. ‘It is attracting the 16-18-year-old age group as well as well as graduates and we expect to hit those numbers again at Production Park,’ Eakins confirms
Also excited is Martin Audio Product Support Engineer Paul Connaughton, who has been leading a systematic training initiative through UK higher education establishments, and been in regular communication with Eakins about the possible synergies both parties might achieve though a collaboration. ‘Martin Audio’s successful University programme has meant very close synergies with Production Futures,’ he says. ‘It complements what we are trying to do, as we are both committed to help encourage and educate the next wave of industry professionals, no matter what their pathway, to ensure it continues to thrive.
‘I can’t wait to join up at Production Park in September, and take part in our first show. We will be showcasing some recent product on the stand, while demonstrating software, discussing aspects of loudspeaker and system designs. Future shows may see us delivering short training courses once we have our training certifications in place.’
‘In further extending our outreach to the student community via Production Futures we are continuing our strong commitment to training, and at the same time taking an active role in promoting career opportunities within the industry,’ adds Martin Audio Marketing Director, James King. ‘As a leading manufacturer it’s right that we support the next generation of sound engineers and technical crew, and give back to the industry.’
More: https://martin-audio.com
