Charles HIckson II
Stephens City,Virginia
Summary
Skilled professional with 20 years of experience in photography and audio-visual production. Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Suite, and various video conferencing platforms. Demonstrated ability to manage projects effectively while providing exceptional customer service and communication. Committed to contributing to organizational growth through expertise and leadership.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
Event Services Technician
Pinnacle Live, LLC
Reston, Virginia
09.2025 - Current
- Facilitated live events by operating, setting up, and dismantling audio-visual equipment.
- Assisted in comprehensive setup and strike of audio-visual technology for events.
- Ensured functionality of all equipment while assisting clients with operations.
- Conducted thorough client communications to support successful event execution.
- Trained clients on equipment usage to optimize event experiences.
- Managed inventory records accurately, ensuring security and reporting losses as needed.
- Kept workspaces clean and organized to satisfy company standards.
- Reviewed invoices daily with clients, acquiring signatures to confirm agreement.
Instructional Video Producer
Cybermedia Technologies Inc./ Defense Acquisition University
Fort Belvoir, Virginia
01.2023 - 03.2025
- Collaborated with DAU's Video Team to create high-quality short videos for curriculum enhancement.
- Developed scripts and storyboards in partnership with instructional designers and subject matter experts.
- Edited video footage, incorporating effects, graphics, and motion elements to enhance visual appeal.
- Utilized AI video generation and editing tools such as Vyond and DaVinci for efficient production.
- Delivered training videos that met DAU's quality standards and Section 508 accessibility criteria.
- Maintained comprehensive documentation of production processes and techniques for future reference.
Video Production Engineer
QBase/Defense Acquisition University
Fort Belvoir, Virginia
08.2017 - 01.2023
- Executed production of videotaped television programs, radio broadcasts, motion files, and sound-accompanied slideshows.
- Facilitated collaboration among writers, editors, actors, and technicians to ensure cohesive production results.
- Configured professional camera systems and lighting setups for studio environments.
- Operated teleprompters and managed video master controls during live and recorded sessions.
- Edited multimedia productions with Final Cut and AVID while determining suitable encoding methods.
- Advised customers on effective media strategies to achieve specific objectives during project execution.
- Delivered support for various video conferencing platforms throughout the COVID pandemic period.
- Utilized Microsoft Office tools effectively across multiple formats including Word and Excel.
Sales Manager
Presentation Services Audio Visuals
Herndon, Virginia
12.2016 - 08.2017
- Secured business for PSAV through proactive, consultative sales strategies and adherence to sales standards.
- Managed PSAV’s sales process utilizing CRM system effectively to track customer interactions.
- Generated definite bookings from hotels by proactively contacting customers and creating professional bids.
- Applied knowledge of costs associated with sales to maintain profitability within established guidelines.
- Supervised technical operations, troubleshooting equipment and software issues to ensure seamless service.
- Cultivated relationships with key customers, hotel staff, and various supporting departments for collaboration.
- Addressed client needs by attending meetings, organizing show files, and resolving inquiries promptly.
- Evaluated competitive sales landscape to recommend pricing improvements and enhance bid structures.
Technician/Sales Coordinator
Presentation Services Audio Visuals
Washington, District of Columbia
03.2010 - 12.2016
- Developed customized meeting diagrams, billing systems, and marketing materials for impactful sales presentations.
- Assisted Director in revenue forecasting and capture rate analysis.
- Established and maintained a comprehensive sales file to track future bookings.
- Participated in all onsite inspections and pre-event/post-event meetings to ensure smooth operations.
- Executed additional assigned duties efficiently to support team objectives.
- Provided technical support and resolved equipment/software issues for PSAV operations.
- Ensured complete customer satisfaction and managed inventory during events.
- Transported, assembled, maintained, and repaired multimedia production equipment.
Combat Documentation Production Specialist
United States Army
Washington, District of Columbia
07.2001 - 04.2009
- Provided comprehensive digital photographic services for Headquarters Department of the Army and various federal agencies within National Capital Region.
- Captured high-quality portraits of military and civilian officials at exclusive Pentagon DA/Portrait Studio.
- Managed appointment scheduling, client consultations regarding products, and photo submissions to DAPMIS database.
- Produced both video and still medical documentation for Department of the Army initiatives.
- Conducted research to develop audiovisual materials for training, ceremonies, documentation, and other events.
- Documented military exercises as an experienced videographer, ensuring adherence to script during all production stages.
- Executed video production tasks including script creation, location scouting, shot selection, editing, and duplication.
- Supervised soldiers effectively to ensure successful completion of photography duties aligned with organizational standards.
Education
Digital Communications And Multimedia -
Defense Information School
FT Meade, MD07-2007
Video Production and Documentation Course -
Defense Information School
FT Meade, MD07-2002
Basic Still Photography Course -
Defense Information School
FT Meade, MD02-2002
Some College (No Degree) - Business Communication
Northern Virginia Community College
Manassas, VASkills
- Sales efficiency enhancement
- Event coordination expertise
- Multimedia design and production
- Audio-visual integration
- Inventory oversight
- Customer engagement management
- Solution-oriented problem solving
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Organizational multitasking abilities
- Communication proficiency
Languages
English
Full Professional
Certification
Photography
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Event Services Technician
Pinnacle Live, LLC
09.2025 - Current
Instructional Video Producer
Cybermedia Technologies Inc./ Defense Acquisition University
01.2023 - 03.2025
Video Production Engineer
QBase/Defense Acquisition University
08.2017 - 01.2023
Sales Manager
Presentation Services Audio Visuals
12.2016 - 08.2017
Technician/Sales Coordinator
Presentation Services Audio Visuals
03.2010 - 12.2016
Combat Documentation Production Specialist
United States Army
07.2001 - 04.2009
Digital Communications And Multimedia -
Defense Information School
Video Production and Documentation Course -
Defense Information School
Basic Still Photography Course -
Defense Information School
Some College (No Degree) - Business Communication
Northern Virginia Community College