Age: 24
Hometown: Tooele, UT (Salt Lake City)
Last School Attended (before The CRAS): Salt Lake Community College
Last Book Read: 5.1 Surround Sound By Tom Holman
Favorite CD: Anything produced/written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
What made you decide on the CRAS for your education?
The affordability of the program, studio hands on time, small classes, Pro Tools certification and the fact that the school is open 24/7.
What was your engineering/musical background before you went to the school?
I was mainly into songwriting. I was interested in electronics and computers and wanted to find a job that dealt with both. So engineering was the best route - I love it.
What's the most important thing you brought out of your experience at the school?
Determination is the main thing, if you have that, you can go far. I was there at school all day and all night learning all I could about the equipment and Pro Tools and it has paid off. I'm still like that at work - I never want to leave. Right now I've prepared myself and I've been patient in letting things happen.
Tell us what you're doing now and who you've been working with?
My last session was a lot of fun. I assisted with production for a hip-hop artist named Nas. He's had a lot of success. I've also worked artists signed to this studio's record label. A lot of pop and R&B groups like C-note and Natural. Also, I worked with Eric Schilling, one of the hottest engineers around. He's worked on a lot of great music and it's great to watch him mix songs - being able to assist him is worth my schooling right there.
What do you like most about your career in audio?
Getting to do a job that's also my hobby. It's great to get paid for something you love. You get to meet a lot of interesting people and learn from them. I also love the fact that you can never learn enough. You can always get better.
What is your dream job? Who would you most like to work with?
Eventually I want my engineering to turn freelance so I can concentrate on my songwriting. I really want to get a publishing deal because my real love is just being able to write songs all day. I would love to work with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis - doing anything. I always enjoy their songs and can just vibe with their style and production.
Where do you see yourself in five years? What are your goals?
I envision myself being able to realize my goals. If I'm determined enough and prepare myself, I'll make it.
