Craig is a technician in the School of Arts, English and Languages, providing technical support throughout the School's facilities and for research projects and events.

About Craig

What does your role involve?

I'm part of a team of arts technicians who provide technical support to students and staff. My main specialism is in audio. I provide technical support in the recording studios, computer labs, concert venues and other specialist facilities including the Sonic Lab at the Sonic Arts Research Centre. I also get involved in the cutting-edge research projects looking at new creative arts technologies. There is a thriving public events programme at the School with at least one concert per week each semester – I manage the technical needs of these events.

What is the best bit about your role?

I really like the variation of the role and the opportunities to learn new things. I also enjoy working with creative people and helping make their ideas come to life.

What are the challenges?

The technology used in the creative industries today is evolving rapidly. It is really important to keep up to date with the latest trends and ensure we are equipped to teach students the future of audio and new media.

What does an average day look like for you?

Average days don’t come about that often! I could be helping students in the studio; fixing a digital audio mixer; recording surround sound for a virtual reality research project; sound engineering a live concert; or purchasing equipment for the school. It is a busy and rewarding job.

Technicians are often the ones setting up and carrying out exciting, interesting experiments to help discover more about the world and how to make it a better place. What impact is the findings of the researchers you support having on people’s lives?

I've been involved in setting up and running two permanent sound gardens in Belfast – located at the Northern Ireland Hospice, Somerton Road and also Albertbridge Road, East Belfast. It has been a great experience working with the community and local artists and using sound to improve outdoor surroundings and create uplifting sound environments for visitors.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy DIY and learning new skills at home. If a DIY job goes wrong I like to call it 'rustic'.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

Never stop learning. And when things start to go wrong treat it as a test.

What is your favourite app?

Wunderlist. Brilliant for keeping me organised!