What is your current position on tours/ events?

Monitor Engineer

How long have you been in the industry? What was your first job in the industry?

8 years, [My] first job in the industry was monitor tech for [R&B Artist] Monica

What inspired you to pursue a career in production, and how did you get started in your specific field?

I’ve pretty [much] been in this field from childhood, [My] father was a pastor and my job on Sunday’s was to set up the PA at church. He taught me how to do this at a very young age.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face on a day-to-day basis, and how do you navigate these challenges effectively?

Navigating the logistical circus I call life, being that I service many different artist who all have there own calendars. I say to myself several times a day I wish I could clone myself. It’s a good problem to have though, [I would] rather have too much work than not enough.

How do you handle the demands of touring with the needs to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and what strategies do you use to manage the stress of the job?

I keep my work time at work, and when I am home although seldom, I completely detach and keep up with my own personal hobbies and family time that bring me joy.

What are some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had working in the industry, and how have these experiences influenced your approach to your work?

I played a bass stand on the BET awards during HER performance. It was a powerful moment to be apart of and although I really wasn’t doing “audio” it was a cool to be included in the performance in that way. Plus my family got to see me on TV. We all strive to make our parents proud and this was definitely a time I did just that!

What role do technology and innovation play in your specific role, and how have these

Without the advances in technology, my job as a monitor engineer in today's field would be pretty impossible. [From] the high channel count shows, to the demanding level of audio processing that takes place to provide quality IEM reference mixes for each individual on stage. I would [need alot] of outboard analog gear and consoles many feet longer than the standard digital audio consoles that we use today...

In your opinion, how will technology shape the industry in the future?

New innovations will continue to push the envelope forward on what we can do with audio. There are many people in the field answering questions to problems we haven’t even encountered yet.

What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in Live Entertainment, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in the industry?

I would tell them that 90% of the gig is having a great attitude and being easy to work with. The other 10% should be to completely master your craft whatever that might be. Don’t take positions out of your understanding just to get in the door, this most times will expose your weaknesses, it’s ok to say no to a job if that’s not what you do, another opportunity will come. This is a small community and bad news travels way faster the any good. Your reputation is everything.

What advice would you give to someone looking to advance in their career?

Look for mentors in places you are looking to get to, the fastest track to get where you’re going is to learn from someone already there. Stay humble and always willing to learn.

If there is anything else you would like to share, feel free to do so.

Austin Dudley is one of the best to ever do it! A true RF wizard!