Insights from Brock Higley: Multimedia Communications Coordinator and Community Advocate
Brock Higley has carved a niche in the field of multimedia communications, blending his passion for storytelling with a commitment to community engagement. As a Multimedia Communications Coordinator based in Peoria, Arizona, Brock leverages digital tools to enhance educational environments and foster community involvement. A graduate of Emerson College with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Brock’s career spans various facets of media and public service, emphasizing the powerful synergy between communication and community development.
What initially drew you to a career in broadcast journalism and multimedia communications?
I’ve always had a profound interest in storytelling and the impact it can have on people. Growing up, I was the kid who had a notebook or a camera in hand, eager to capture and tell stories around me. This passion led me to pursue Broadcast Journalism at Emerson College, where I explored how media can be used to bridge gaps and illuminate lesser-known stories. The transition to multimedia communications was a natural progression, allowing me to use digital platforms to strengthen community ties.
How do you integrate your passion for community service into your professional role?
Community service is at the heart of everything I do. In my role, I look for ways to use media not just to inform, but to engage and mobilize the community. Whether it’s through organizing local events, promoting school functions, or leading digital literacy workshops, I aim to use my skills to make a tangible difference. It’s about turning information into action and ensuring that our media initiatives have a positive, lasting impact on the community.
Can you share an example of a successful project you’ve led that combined media and community engagement?
Certainly! One of my favorite projects was the “Digital Day of Learning” we organized for local students. We used various social media platforms to host live sessions on topics ranging from cyber security to creative content creation. The project not only helped students learn valuable digital skills but also fostered a sense of community as they engaged with peers and shared their creations online. It was a fantastic blend of education, technology, and community interaction.
What challenges do you face in your work, and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is the digital divide, which can hinder our efforts to reach and engage all community members. To address this, we combine high-tech solutions with more traditional communication methods to ensure no one is left behind. It’s about creating a balanced strategy that respects and includes diverse access levels to technology.
Looking forward, what developments or trends in media do you believe will impact community engagement the most?
The rise of mobile technology and augmented reality (AR) are two trends I’m particularly excited about. These technologies offer new ways to engage audiences, especially younger demographics, making community content more interactive and accessible. Imagine augmenting a local historical tour with AR, bringing history to life right before your eyes, or using mobile apps to organize city-wide community service events. The possibilities for deeper, more meaningful community interaction are virtually limitless.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in multimedia communications?
Dive deep into understanding the tools and technologies available but stay focused on the human aspect of our work. Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s the human connections and stories that truly make a difference. Also, never underestimate the power of networking; connections can lead to opportunities that go beyond your initial career path.
Are you currently mentoring anyone, or do you plan to? What do you believe is important in a mentor-mentee relationship?
Yes, I mentor a few young professionals and students. I believe the most important aspect of a mentor-mentee relationship is mutual respect and a genuine interest in learning from each other. It’s about guiding and being open to new ideas, ensuring that the learning process is continuous and beneficial for both parties.
What has been your most satisfying moment in your career?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one, but seeing a project come to fruition and positively affect the community always brings immense satisfaction. For instance, witnessing students apply the digital skills they’ve learned in our programs to real-world scenarios, like starting their own blogs or helping small businesses develop online strategies, is incredibly rewarding.