The Next Generation of MediaTech Takes Centre Stage at Sky Studios.

Stuart Ray, IABM’s Head of Skills and Development, shared his highlights from the day:

At SMPTE’s fifth annual Young Innovators event, students, new entrants and industry leaders came together with a shared goal: breaking down barriers and opening doors into one of the most exciting, fast-moving sectors in the world. IABM was proud to be part of the day, with Head of Skills & Development, Stuart Ray, joining professionals from across the industry to support the next wave of talent.

Many of the young people attending had the chance to take part in an exciting series of practical workshops at Sky’s Osterley campus during the day. From technical paths to creative and operational roles, the sessions highlighted the many and varying roles available in the Production workflow.

By the evening, the spotlight shifted to those already forging their own paths. A series of high impact ‘Lightning Talks’ brought stories from young people currently making an impact on the industry to life. Presentations included insights into cleaning and upscaling an old ‘Star Wars’ laser disc, tracking and identifying runners and riders in broadcast horse racing, and an overview of one graduate’s journey from a BA production-based degree into working as a Production Support Engineer. It was proof that there’s no single route into the industry – and no limit to where it can lead.

Following a fireside chat with new industry entrants from Warner Bros Discovery, Milk VFX, Kinly and Vivid Broadcast, the room transformed into a vibrant networking hub. Students and new entrants had the opportunity to make exciting connections, directly with the wide range of established industry professionals attending.

As SMPTE Vice President Education Polly Hickling reflected: “In this fifth year of the event, we had more students from more different educational establishments attend than ever before…if (this event) showed us anything, it’s that the future of this industry is curious, open, and very much worth investing in”.

Stuart Ray echoed the sentiment: “IABM are thrilled to attend and support this incredible event each year. It is initiatives like this which are essential for young people to experience the Broadcast community and get a great sense of career opportunities and job roles which they may not have previously considered. Breaking down any perceived barriers between the industry and those who wish to join it is critical. We are all committed to developing and supporting much needed young talent in our industry and we look forward to working with SMPTE and many other organizations in the future”.