the game and web dev turned dj/audio engineer turned senior audio software engineer - why i went back to engineering
Tags: juce, audio, cpp, dsp
Published: 2023-03-13 01:21:49

Making career changes is not uncommon, but going back to a field you previously abandoned can be quite a challenge. However, in my case, returning to engineering was a natural progression that made sense to me.

I started coding at a young age and enjoyed game development and web development in high school. However, I decided to pursue my passion for music and became a DJ and audio engineer. This led me to a job at Sony Music, but I soon realized that my dream job was not as fulfilling as I had hoped.

As a result, I started to explore other avenues that would allow me to merge my love for music and audio with programming. I began to create my own plug-ins and software using Max MSP and even built my own hardware on breadboards. My interest in audio engineering research and development grew, and I pursued a degree in audio engineering.

Although I had prior experience in programming, it had been ten years since I last worked with it. However, I was not deterred, and I knew that I could apply my knowledge to the field of digital signal processing (DSP), which I found fascinating.

After launching my own music technology start-up, Synergy DSP, I ported my prototype plug-in from Max MSP to VST format using JUCE and C++. I am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Digital audio engineering learning about DSP & AI.
Pursuing a Master's degree in Digital audio engineering has been an incredibly fulfilling experience for me. The program has provided me with a deep understanding of the theory behind audio engineering and has equipped me with the technical skills needed to excel in the field.

In addition to my studies, I am also working as a tech lead at another start-up, where I lead the development of audio software. 
Furthermore, being a tech lead has given me the opportunity to hone my leadership and communication skills. I have learned how to manage a dev cycle effectively and to communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

In addition to pursuing a Master's degree and becoming 
a tech lead, I have also received recognition for my work in audio engineering. When I graduated from my undergraduate program in audio engineering, I was honored with the Millmar Award for Excellence in Audio Engineering for my final project. It was a proud moment for me to be recognized for my hard work and dedication to the field.

Winning honors and awards can be a significant achievement for professionals and can provide them with a sense of accomplishment and recognition for their work. It can also help to build credibility and enhance their professional reputation, which can lead to new opportunities and career advancements.

I believe that my award for Excellence in Audio Engineering has opened doors for me and has helped me gain recognition for my work. It has been an important milestone in my career, and I hope to achieve many more in the future.

Overall, pursuing a Master's degree and becoming a tech lead has allowed me to take my career to the next level. It has provided me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in my field, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me.
Returning to engineering has allowed me to merge my passions for music and audio with programming, and I feel that I am contributing to a field that has a significant impact across various industries. Moreover, it has given me a sense of fulfilment that I was unable to find in my previous career.

In conclusion, going back to engineering was the best decision for me, and I am grateful for the opportunities that it has presented me. If you are considering a career change, don't be afraid to explore different avenues and pursue what truly makes you happy.