Breaking Stereotypes: Why Technical Production Isn’t Just 'being a roadie'

Let’s be honest. When some parents hear “live events” or “technical production,” their minds go straight to late nights, loud music, and the old-school rock 'n' roll lifestyle. It's no wonder the events industry can carry a bit of a reputation.

But that image is outdated.

Today, technical production is as much about professionalism, precision, and creativity as it is about cables and consoles. And right now, high school students across Sydney are proving that this world isn’t just for seasoned adults. It’s for young people with passion, purpose, and potential.

There’s a long-standing stereotype that working with sound, lighting, and video is too complex or too chaotic for teens. Some might even question whether it’s a suitable pathway at all.

That is exactly the mindset we’re here to change.

At Lukad AV Academy, students aren’t thrown into the deep end. They are mentored, trained, and empowered to safely and confidently operate real equipment at real events. And in doing so, they gain more than technical skills. They build problem-solving abilities, teamwork, time management, and personal responsibility.

These are the very skills that employers look for in any industry.

For parents and educators, this is about more than AV. It is about creating space for young people to thrive in an industry that blends creativity with technology. It is about helping them discover strengths they didn’t know they had. And yes, it is about proving that today’s events industry can be a safe, exciting, and valuable place for the next generation to grow.

The events industry is changing, and so are the faces behind the scenes. Let’s give students the opportunity to lead that change.