Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Kara Kohl

Martinez,CA

Summary

Experienced Show Caller and A/V Operator with a versatile technical skill set, adept at leading cross-functional teams to deliver seamless events in dynamic, high-pressure environments. Demonstrated ability in managing virtual, hybrid, and live productions using cutting-edge technologies.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Lead & Show Caller, Production Operations

Advanced Systems Group
02.2019 - Current
  • #1 requested Show Caller for high-profile C-suite and executive events, expertly running rehearsals and ensuring flawless execution of all show elements under tight deadlines and extreme pressure.
  • Oversaw scene changes, stage moves, lighting, sound cues, video projections, and other technical elements during live events, enhancing overall production quality.
  • Collaborated with global teams across time zones, maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure and demonstrating adaptability in fluid, live environments.
  • Supervised a team of six direct reports, conducted performance reviews, disciplinary meetings, and monitored the progress of new hires to enhance team effectiveness and productivity.
  • Mentored and developed multiple team members, successfully guiding them to promotions and fostering their professional growth.
  • Trained and certified new Show Callers and Production Operators in various disciplines, maintaining high standards of performance and operational excellence.
  • Led cross-departmental collaboration to align teams, identify event weaknesses, and optimize workflows, significantly enhancing event success.
  • Adapted to diverse technical demands for single-tech show operations, performing roles such as audio mixing, robotic camera control, live switching, projection, streaming, recording, and editing.
  • Supported large scale events by serving in various roles including screen switcher, camera operator, and graphics operator to ensure seamless event execution.
  • Managed virtual and live event production utilizing cloud-based systems.
  • Remotely accessed physical and virtual machines to ensure smooth event operations and addressed technical issues proactively.
  • Troubleshot and maintained event space and machine room equipment.
  • Edited videos and created event graphics using Adobe Premiere, After Effects, and Photoshop, contributing to high-quality presentations.

Video Technician

SFJAZZ
10.2017 - 02.2019
  • Recorded and directed live performances, collaborating with audio engineers to manage sound quality and ensure optimal audio-visual production.
  • Set up and operated DSLR and PTZ cameras, Hiperwall displays, and assisted with laptop presentations for seamless multimedia integration.
  • Operated all multimedia equipment within the Ostroff Media Production Suite and across the SFJAZZ Center, ensuring high-quality video production.
  • Managed camera patching, routing, and video equipment setup for external vendors renting the SFJAZZ Center, providing technical support and ensuring smooth operation.
  • Livestreamed performances via Wirecast to platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, delivering high-quality broadcasts to online audiences.

Video Editor

Sellpoints
01.2018 - 12.2018
  • Produced and edited videos for a diverse range of clients including Costco, Canon, and Lowe’s, using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects to exceed client expectations.
  • Created motion graphics and edited product photos for marketing campaigns, contributing to successful promotional efforts.
  • Collaborated with the Videographer and Art Director to write and edit scripts, ensuring high-quality content that met production deadlines.

Producer, Technical Director, Engineer

This Week in Tech (TWiT)
10.2015 - 05.2017

Producer:

  • Conducted content research, booked guests, prepared interview questions, and developed show scripts to ensure engaging and informative episodes.
  • Managed talent and engineers to meet production deadlines, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality output.
  • Directed the entire production process for pre-recorded segments and live shows, overseeing every aspect from start to finish.
  • Wrote show descriptions and ensured timely editing and publishing of episodes for download and streaming.

Technical Director:

  • Operated the TriCaster 8000 daily, switching cameras live during broadcasts for smooth and engaging productions.
  • Managed on-screen elements, including graphics, lower thirds, and B-roll footage to enhance viewer experience.
  • Monitored audio levels to ensure broadcast quality sound.
  • Called guests via Skype and worked with engineers to ensure proper camera framing and lighting.
  • Collaborated with producers to manage and direct talent during live and pre-recorded segments.

Engineer:

  • Maintained and troubleshot the TriCaster 8000, ensuring seamless operations during live broadcasts and productions.
  • Resolved technical issues with video and sound equipment, both in-studio and on field shoots.
  • Operated cameras and monitored audio for live events, field shoots, and in-studio productions, ensuring high-quality output.
  • Managed studio camera framing, sound engineering, and live stream monitoring for optimal performance.
  • Assisted with website maintenance and content updates to support the production team.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Broadcasting And Electronic Communication Arts

San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA
05.2014

Skills

  • Strategic Thinking, Problem Solving, & Decision Making Under Pressure
  • Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment
  • Executive-level Communication
  • Documentation (SOPs, Reporting, and Escalations)
  • Show Calling / Directing
  • Technical Directing (Grass Valley, Ross, TriCaster)
  • Graphics Operation (Google Slides, Keynote, Powerpoint)
  • Video Playback (OnTheAir Express, Qlab, Media Navigator, Quicktime)
  • Camera Operation (Sony EX-1, Canon XF205, DSLR, GoPro, PTZ, Panasonic)
  • A/V Hardware (Yamaha, Behringer, Crestron, Lightware, Folsom, Barco, Ultrix, Evertz, and Panasonic)
  • A/V Software (Chrome Remote Desktop, Virtual Machines, vMix, OBS, StreamYard, Slido, Mentimeter)

Timeline

Senior Lead & Show Caller, Production Operations

Advanced Systems Group
02.2019 - Current

Video Editor

Sellpoints
01.2018 - 12.2018

Video Technician

SFJAZZ
10.2017 - 02.2019

Producer, Technical Director, Engineer

This Week in Tech (TWiT)
10.2015 - 05.2017

Bachelor of Arts - Broadcasting And Electronic Communication Arts

San Francisco State University
Kara Kohl