(Editor’s Note: This blog was written by Michael Johnson who was sent to the National Association of Broadcasters Show 2022 through our Professional Development Accessibility Program.)

*AUTHOR MICHAEL JOHNSON, MICHELLE DELATEUR & CANDECE MUNROE ON THE NAB FLOOR*

NAB was my first tech convention I ever went to. I did not know what to expect at such a large venue. The first day I was there I was super nervous, what to see first? Will I see everything I want to? I decided to take advantage of just exploring, see what NAB had to offer.

That night I took time to make a list of everything I wanted to see more in depth, that's where the trip took an upswing. I was able to get so much information, the next few days; visiting booths the next few days from camera, editing, and audio booths I did not expect so much info (all good stuff). I learned what upgrades I may need, different techniques to use in editing, and about more efficient set-ups for various projects. One of my favorite parts about NAB was a podcasting session I attended. I was in the midst of starting a podcast and the panel was crazy helpful. They had information for veteran podcasters and for new people on the scene. In the end, I am still amazed about the experience. I would recommend to mark down what you are most excited to see and just take everything in. Finally, if you are new to conventions, like myself, be open minded to the tech, I went in looking for a camera upgrade (which I found) but found out about so much other stuff to make my job and my crew's jobs easier on set.

I first found out about BCPC from my editing teacher in college. She said it was a group for post production professionals. At the time I did not know what I was focusing on, but wanted to join to see what it was all about. I also heard many success stories from older alumni who joined the group and made a ton of connections. So naturally, that intrigued me as well. When I joined, I was met with so much good information about the industry and how to maneuver through it. It is a great group, I am so happy I joined.

My interest in NAB was kind of sudden. I knew I wanted to go to a tech conference once in my life. I applied for the BCPC opportunity to go and got in. That's when I did a deep dive on NAB. It was a tech gold mine. So much information and so much new equipment, I didn't know where to start. After only doing a little research, my interest went from 0 to 100 immediately. Unfortunately, the pandemic hit and we had to push my time of going a couple of years, but that gave me time to plan. Finally, arriving in Las Vegas, my mind was blown, so much to look at and it felt like not enough time to do it all. I will definitely be looking forward to going to another one.

Viva Las Vegas! You can learn more about our PDAP Program, and how to get involved or donate at http://www.bluecollarpostcollective.com/pdap