Young Person of the Year – bring on the talent

Every year at the IABM Annual Awards, IABM recognizes the Andrew Jones Young Person of Year with a special award. The competition for the 2024 award was particularly intense. In the end, the award went to Ciaran Ennis, Associate Engineer at Techex. However, any of the shortlisted candidates would have been worthy winners in their own right.

We spoke to the shortlisted candidates to find out what brought them into the MediaTech industry, what they enjoy about it and how they see their futures unfolding. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and personal drive is a common factor for all of them – as is the support and mentorship they have received. What follow is an inspiring read in its own right and also provides an excellent insight into how to foster the new talent our industry needs to continue to thrive.

The award is named for former IABM Head of Training, the late Andrew Jones, who dedicated his career to attracting and fostering young people into our great industry. Andrew’s motto was ‘Never stop learning’. Reading this article would definitely make him smile!

The shortlisted young people interviewed are:

What is your educational background?

 Alex Locking:

I went to a comprehensive secondary school in Maidstone, Kent, where I stayed for 6^th form to study my A-levels. I then studied Film, Radio and Television Studies at Canterbury Christ Church University, where I achieved a First Class BA Honours.

Ben Killackey:

Throughout secondary school I was really interested in all things computer science, however wasn't sure if it was something I wanted to do as a career. Alongside this I'd always loved watching big sporting/entertainment events on TV and taken an interest into trying to understand how everything worked - but it never clicked that this could even be a job.

Ciaran Ennis:

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Surrey, where I enrolled in a course initially called Film and Video Production Technology (BSc Hons). By my final year, the program had evolved and was renamed Film Production and Broadcast Engineering (BEng) to better reflect its robust mix of theory and hands-on learning. The curriculum was incredible, with a strong focus on industry-standard technologies and concepts.

The course offered access to state-of-the-art facilities like a new TV studio and sound stage, alongside instruction from an award-winning faculty with deep expertise in film, TV, and audio production. Being IET-accredited, it was an ideal blend of engineering principles, artistic storytelling, and practical production skills tailored to the creative industries.

Interestingly, during my time at Surrey, I discovered a passion for the technical aspects of filmmaking—something I hadn’t anticipated when I first joined. Initially, my love was solely for film creation, but as I delved into the engineering side, I realized that’s where my true enthusiasm lay.

Rares Paunescu:

I have successfully finished my Computer Science (Hons) degree at Coventry University and now I have successfully finished my Master’s degree with Merit in Digital Media at London Metropolitan University. I really wanted to do a Master’s since after I finished my Bachelor degree in Computer Science, but Telos Alliance came along with an internship at Broadcast Bionics’ office. I wanted to do a Master’s which is technology media related, since I already have the strong foundation in Computer Science from my Bachelor degree, and then I wanted to do a Master’s which combines my two passions, technology and media, and Digital Media was my best fit. The challenging thing was that in my second semester, I was also studying full-time and also working full-time at BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service), because I started working here at BFBS in March 2024 during my second semester, but still I have finished my Master’s degree with Merit classification, even if it was not easy to also study full-time and to also work full-time.

Sophie Humphrey:

I did a BTEC in performing arts at college, after a break I went back into higher education completing a degree in Television Production at the Solent University.

How did you get into the industry? - did you always have an eye on a career in media technology?

Alex Locking:

I always knew I wanted to work in media/ production from my teens, so I chose Media Studies for both GCSE and A-Level which confirmed my desire to enter this industry. I chose my specific degree because I wanted a 'hands-on' approach when learning about equipment and the live production environment, rather than focusing on theory-based writing.

I got into the industry through my university; we had a module in which alumni would come and do a presentation about their career and what they have done since leaving uni. One alumni works for Moov as the scheduler, and after hearing the type of work Moov are involved in I was extremely keen to get involved however possible. So, I contacted my now colleague, we arranged a zoom call where he offered me some part time work at BT Sport at weekends. Studying my final year of my degree coupled with working both days every weekend at BT Sport was difficult and I had very little time outside this, but it was worth it, because as soon as I finished my final year I was offered a full time role at Moov, where I still am today nearly three years later as a Senior member of the team.

Ben Killackey:

Whilst looking at post GCSE options, my parents happened to come across a course at a local college studying Creative Media Production & Technology and that's when everything clicked; I realised it was a potential career path I could take. From there, I went on to study Television Production at Solent University where I became heavily involved in student TV with the university's student-run production company called Sonar Events. It actually took a trip in my first year of uni to my currently employer, Sky, to open my eyes to media technology. I'd always only known the more general TV roles such as directing, camera operating etc., however the opportunity to tour such a facility and meet people who could work in TV, but also be technical at the same time was a real eye opener.

Ciaran Ennis:

From a young age, I’ve been passionate about both media and computer science. In school, I was always drawn to creative projects and problem-solving through technology. When it came time to choose a university course, I realized I didn’t have to pick just one path—I could combine my two passions. That’s how I discovered the Film and Video Production Technology course. It felt like the perfect fit, and from there, everything just fell into place. The rest is history!

Rares Paunescu:

At the age of 9, I was “infected” with a very beautiful passion, called “RADIO” from my father. At that age I started to develop my new love, trying to learn about the basic principles of a broadcast radio station. When I was 10 years old I was playing with a broadcast console and radio automation software. Well, that passion went crazy until 14 years ago, when I begged my dad to buy a FM license to have my own radio station, called Dream FM. From that point, I started to learn how to do professional things on a radio station. I love everything from radio, from the music, playlist, jingles, sweepers, radio imaging, radio production,... up to the transmitters, antennas, dipoles...etc.

This radio station is like my own child, I must do everything for it. The cool thing is that I really enjoy doing all the work, meaning: playlist, radio production, traffic, website, iOS App, IT issues, and of course also Broadcast Engineering issues.

Sophie Humphrey:

I didn’t always have my eye on a career in the media technology industry. I originally wanted a career in the acting world, and did a term at the university of Chichester to study it. My eye had subconsciously shifted a while before I left, as I kept looking at TV apprenticeships, BBC, channel 4, whilst at the same time getting a couple of audience tickets for some TV show recordings which sparked my interest even more, seeing how things ran behind the scenes.  After dropping out I applied for all the TV schemes including the mama youth but didn’t have much luck because of the pandemic. After working in retail and hospitality, I found a course at Solent University in Television Production. Whilst at Solent I got involved in many jobs within and outside university including networking events, which all accumulatively let me into the media tech industry.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

Alex Locking:

I enjoy pretty much every aspect of my job, but in particular the team I have around me are brilliant; when I was new there would always be someone to help or provide support. Everyone here is very easy to work with and get along with. The other part I love about my role is the events I get to work on and locations I get to visit. In two and a half years I have worked on Wimbledon twice, Olympics, many Champions League football games including two finals in Istanbul and at Wembley and multiple huge box office boxing fights in both the UK and Riyadh.

Ben Killackey:

I love being in an environment where I can always keep learning and staying up to date with the latest technologies and developments - all whilst working on some big sporting events!

Ciaran Ennis:

One of the things I love most about working at Techex is the sheer variety of responsibilities I get to take on. Every day is different, whether I’m working on baseband video adaptation, deploying cloud infrastructure, diving into networking and IP video, or exploring compression technology. My role spans a wide array of cutting-edge products and technologies, which keeps the work exciting and intellectually stimulating.

Over time, I’ve built a strong foundation in these areas, including expertise in DevOps practices using RESTful APIs, Ansible, and Python, as well as container-based workflows like Docker and Kubernetes. I’ve also had the opportunity to work on OTT and next-generation contribution workflows, European and North American IPTV projects, and SDN and orchestration project delivery. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how these projects come together to drive innovation in the industry.

What makes it even better is the collaborative environment at Techex. Despite being a relatively small company, we’re making a big impact, and that’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team. I’m especially grateful for the support I’ve received from Ben Somerville—he’s been instrumental in my growth. From a timid graduate to a confident and capable engineer, his mentorship has played a huge role in shaping my career.

Rares Paunescu:

The variety of technical challenges and when I least expect it, of course that's when something happens. Every day is a school day! – this is what I LOVE the most about my job!

Sophie Humphrey:

Coming from a more production background, live broadcast technology was the thing that eventually ended up getting my brain ticking over. I love learning about how things work and being able to fault find issues. No two shifts are the same, there is always more to learn.

What advice would you give to other young people about getting into and working in media technology?

Alex Locking:

There are a few pieces of advice I would give to young people wanting to work in this industry. Firstly, focus on learning a skill, or multiple skills that will put you in contention for roles. For example, during lockdown I spent hours working on editing and motion graphics in the Adobe Suite. This allowed me to put together a portfolio of work without having to work on professional scale productions. In this industry a showreel is far more important than a CV as it shows both your skills and personal touch on your work. Secondly, I would say use any resources available to you to make contacts in the industry; it’s quite a small world so people will remember names. Finally, any skills or experience you do have, big yourself up! Use LinkedIn, make a showreel or portfolio to show off what skills you do have no matter what they are or how few they may be. Everybody has to enter the industry with no experience in the industry, so use what you do have to make people notice you.

Ben Killackey:

Push yourself out your comfort zone and say yes to every opportunity! I always found I learnt the most and everything felt the most rewarding when I pushed myself to say yes to an opportunity that was just outside my comfort zone - and don't be afraid to ask questions!! University helped guide me towards opportunities, it’s all about pushing yourself to say yes.

Ciaran Ennis:

My biggest advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Media technology is a fast-paced industry that constantly evolves, so having a genuine passion for learning about new tools, systems, and approaches is essential. Don’t be afraid to dive into areas that seem complex or unfamiliar—those are often the most rewarding to master.

Networking is another piece of advice I’d emphasize. Engage with industry professionals, attend events, and join online communities. The media tech world is smaller than you might think, and building strong connections can open unexpected doors. Something I wish I had done more of at University.

Lastly, find mentors or role models who inspire you and can help guide your growth. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible support in my career, and that’s made a huge difference. And remember, everyone starts somewhere—confidence comes with time, practice, and the willingness to tackle challenges head-on.

Rares Paunescu:

To be serious, to work hard, and to stop playing around. 🙂

Sophie Humphrey:

Do it, it’s a brilliant industry and people are willing to help you if you show interest and drive to do well. I would say find networking events, I have gained a lot from SMPTE and Rise events. Shadow as many people in different roles as possible to see what you like and don’t like, what you can see yourself doing in a future role. The more people you get to know the more you find out about individual industry jobs that you probably haven’t heard of. Take every opportunity, be outgoing - message people for advice or an insight into their job, 9/10 times they will more than likely reply and want to help you.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Alex Locking:

In 10 years’ time I sincerely hope I am still in the industry, maybe even with nothing to do with sports broadcast or graphics. I love the high-pace, intensity and creativity of the industry to entertain viewers and captivate audiences, by delivering moments in the best way possible.

Ben Killackey:

Ooh tough question! So long as I'm still learning, developing and having fun whilst doing so I'll be happy!

Ciaran Ennis:

In 10 years, I hope to be in a managerial role. I’ve discovered a real passion for working with people, and I’d love the opportunity to guide and support others in their careers, much like the incredible mentorship I’ve received. Helping others grow, giving them the same opportunities I was fortunate to have, and fostering a collaborative and innovative environment are something I’d find deeply rewarding.

Of course, I also want to continue expanding my technical expertise and staying at the forefront of media technology. But ultimately, combining leadership with technical innovation is where I see my future—and where I believe I can make the biggest impact.

Rares Paunescu:

 In 10 years’ time I see myself growing with the company, contributing to the company's success, and to also help growing the broadcast industry.

Sophie Humphrey:

That is a massive question but generally I hope to build on my broadcast technology knowledge and career, maybe work on some cool big events like the Olympics or some mainstream music festivals.