Production Futures, an initiative that creates opportunities for young people to learn, train, network and develop careers in production across the live event industry, has added Martin Audio as its latest partner.
“It’s wonderful that Martin Audio have seen the potential of Production Futures,” say CEO Hannah Eakins. “We’re particularly delighted to welcome them as a British manufacturer. They are a forward-thinking company with a diverse work force, and we’ve seen them transform over the last 20 years.”
Production Futures is equally in the process of transformation, including the announcement of a new audio learning zone. Along with Martin Audio, this will debut at a September 28 event slated to take 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,” continued Eakins. “These learning zones have already worked really well for video and lighting.”
The change for Production Futures has been brought about by attendances that have exceeded 1,000 visitors (at the recent Manchester event), representing some 55 colleges and universities. “It is attracting the 16-18-year-old age group as well as well as graduates,” she confirms, “and we expect to hit those numbers again at Production Park.”
Martin Audio product support engineer Paul Connaughton, who has been leading a training initiative through the UK’s relevant higher education establishments, states, “Martin Audio’s successful University program has meant very close synergies with Production Futures. 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 with them at Production Park in September and take part in our first show. We will be showcasing some recent product on the stand, whilst 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.”
Martin Audio marketing director James King concludes, “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. 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.”
