What does a broadcast technician do?
Simply put, I help to keep stations like 5FM and Good Hope FM on air — ensuring that all our radio platforms operate at world standard, from in-studio production to outside broadcasts, be it with an outside broadcast vehicle or mobile broadcasting desk. Whether the teams are broadcasting from the studio, from an event, from a car, the middle of the bushveld or crossing live to Antarctica, we ensure that the audio quality is top-class on both traditional and online channels — bringing the station to the people, no matter where they are.
How did you learn to be a broadcast technician?
I studied sound engineering, which led to my internship at SABC as a technical operator intern. New to radio, I was thrown in the deep end, but I kept learning and improving — and growing to really love broadcasting. A keen ear for detail and knowledge of audio quality are absolutely essential. Audio needs to do its job of communicating key info and entertaining through music, but also needs to go that extra step to really connect with a listener.
What are your main tasks at work each day?
Monitoring all live studios, live shows, remote broadcasts and pre-record studios. Proactive maintenance of all technical elements in line with the SABC’s technical and operational broadcast standards, as well as performing repairs if needed. Setting up and configuring new studios and remote broadcasting equipment if required. Recording, mixing and mastering sessions. Packaging ads and promos for internal departments, as well as for clients, according to their specifications.
What makes you good at what you do?
I am friendly and approachable by nature. I am absolutely committed to honour my promises and not let anyone down. I’m good at finding solutions that serve all parties involved. I take pride in what I do, and put the same amount of energy and passion into each task — no matter how big or small. I have my own saying: “The outcome will improve my next.”So, I approach every person and every task with the same respect and attention to detail.
What do you enjoy about what you do?
The sheer diversity of people I meet tops the list. Then there are the challenges I face every day — things where I need to be quick on my feet to find solutions, learning and growing in the process. The other thing I really enjoy is hearing people talk about what they heard on radio and knowing that I played my part in keeping them informed, engaged and entertained.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
As a child, I was always interested in a career in music. It’s in following prominent musicians and their careers that I decided to get started in sound engineering.
What mistake at work has taught you an important lesson?
It’s not really a mistake, more a realisation that you can learn something from everyone you encounter. Their unique experience, their knowledge and their perspective can be excellent tools to consistently improve yourself.
What advice do you have for young people at the start of their careers?
Many say: “Follow your dreams.” I agree completely. But bear in mind that your dreams might change over time, and that’s OK. This career wasn’t initially my dream, but it’s where my path led, and I’ve grown from an internship to management, with my passion evolving over time and growing my skills and character. So I’d say: “Follow your dreams, but leave room for change.”
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