Alumni Update: Mike Johnson, Professional Sound (Audio Specialist)
Graduated From: Professional Sound (Audio Specialist) Diploma (2017)
Mike Johnson, a 2017 graduate of the Professional Sound (Audio Specialist) program is working as an Audio/Visual Technician with Ink Entertainment, primarily at Rebel Nightclub and Cabana Pool Bar. To date, he’s worked with numerous high-profile artists, including Mark Oliver, Tiesto, Oliver Heldens, Future, Lil Jon, A-Trak, Kaskade, Hardwell, 2 Chainz, Drake, French Montana, Cardi B, Deadmau5, Action Bronson, Liam Gallagher, and Sting. We asked Mike to tell us a little bit more about his current position and his experiences since graduating from Metalworks Institute.
Can you tell us a little bit about your current position with INK Entertainment?
“I started here back in May 2016, as I was finishing up my first year at Metalworks. It seems I managed to make a connection with one of my teachers, who also happened to be the Production Manager for Rebel Nightclub. One thing led to another and before I knew it I was offered a chance to join his team. I jumped at the opportunity and dove right in to the real world of Live Entertainment.”
What has been the most helpful aspect of your Metalworks education, and do you have any words of wisdom for current students or your fellow graduates?
“I realized early on that the most valuable element you can yield from your time at Metalworks is … the network you build and nurture both during your studies and thereafter. Take me for example, to this day I have been offered work from 3 of my former teachers, including the job I currently hold. I have also developed friendships with former classmates and alumni who are doing incredible things themselves since graduation. My advice, figure out what Metalworks has to offer you, and take advantage of it while you can.”
Outside of his work with Ink Entertainment, Mike does freelance work for local gigs, including the Kitchener Blues Festival, and DJs in his spare time. He tells us, “Music is my passion and sharing it with others brings me joy. I spend hours at a time just searching through my music networks and feeds, finding new tracks and artists with incredible talent, but lacking exposure. I purchased a simple controller a couple years ago and started playing around, it wasn’t long before I was pumping out my own mixes. I find it really energizing, there’s nothing quite like it. Feel free to check out some of my compositions!”
Head over to Soundcloud to check out some of Mike’s tracks.
