Posted on 29 July 2011

I’m producing Daybreak North today. That sounds bigger than it probably is, since I’m only holding things together for a day, as opposed to actually taking on the full-on management portions of the producer’s job. Still, I’m nervous. And excited.
Two years ago, I didn’t know what I was going to be doing. I was transitioning out of a short contract I had landed as a result of a short internship– both in government. My media training essentially amounted to volunteer work. I took the volunteer work seriously, mind, and am proud of some of what I produced, but my resume was pretty thin in the experience front. That didn’t stop me from applying for a job at CBC, though. Always worth a shot, even if it’s a long one.
I wasn’t surprised when I didn’t get the job. I was surprised when I was called to see if I would be interested in coming in for a couple of days to learn how to use the equipment and basically see if I had any potential as fill-in for the Prince George bureau.
Those two days wound up turning into fairly steady work. And eventually a permanent part-time position as a researcher (the most entry-level position in the bureau). That’s the position I still hold, although I’ve probably spent as much time if not more working as an associate producer.
I’ve gotten to put together some really fun stories. I’ve also gotten to handle some very serious ones. I’ve been an “expert guest.” In autumn, I’ll be acting as a producer-personality (on the air throughout the show, but working more behind-the-scenes). And today I’m producing.
I can’t forget that on paper, I am not a star candidate. I hope I’ve proven myself in the short time I’ve been there. I KNOW I’ve significantly improved in all areas, even if I still have a long way to go to get to where I’d like to be. But no one has ever treated me like I don’t belong. My co-workers, superiors, and the organization as a whole has been nothing but supportive, complimentary, constructive in their feedback, and generous with their opportunities. I know it’s tough times to get a job of any sort these days. So for me to be holding a job like this, at what I truly believe is one of the world’s best media outlets, at my age with my experience– well, I can be nothing short of grateful.
There is a certain amount of work and planning on my part that went into getting me to where I am. But it would be for nothing with the help of people in my personal and professional lucks. That’s my luck. And I am a very lucky guy.

Filed under: CBC, personal