Blind and Partially Sighted Students Take the Lead at DiGiCo
Recently we partnered with DiGiCo, manufacturers of world-class live digital mixing consoles, to deliver an immersive workplace visit for 12 blind and partially sighted young people – giving them rare, hands-on access to the preview of a world leading software development from the DiGiCo R&D team that will provide a voice to a digital mixing console, specifically for vision-impaired sound engineers.
During the visit, the students explored the console’s cutting-edge accessibility features, mixed tracks, and shared valuable insights directly with DiGiCo’s Research and Development (R&D) team. Their feedback will play a meaningful role in shaping the final software.
“It was fantastic to see the students’ enthusiasm and how confidently they explored the accessibility features on the new console. Being able to give direct feedback on the first-ever accessible sound engineering console was a real highlight — an incredible opportunity for them to feel part of something groundbreaking,” said Mike Aitchison, Head of Research & Development at DiGiCo.
Lee, a partially sighted student, supported by Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey said, ” DiGiCo identified that not all consoles are accessible, so they have created a mixing desk for people who are blind or partially sighted. We were able to get hands-on with it and give our feedback. We also had the opportunity to explore jobs in this industry and my visit will also count towards my media studies course.”
The group also heard from engineers Byron, Michelle and Jon, all of whom are blind, who spoke passionately about their careers in audio. Their experiences showed the students that a future in sound engineering is not only possible, but genuinely within reach.
“Only one in four working-age people who are vision impaired are in paid employment. This makes it more important than ever to work with employers to open up opportunities for people with a sensory impairment, and to help young people to explore potential career paths, a huge thank you to DiGiCo for leading the way” said Clare Burgess, CEO at Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey.
We are calling on more Surrey employers to play a part in shaping brighter futures. By offering workplace visits, talks, or hands-on experiences, businesses can make a real difference for blind or partially sighted students exploring potential career paths. Organisations interested in getting involved are invited to contact Nicola O’Donnell at nodonnell@sightforsurrey.org.uk to discuss opportunities.
