Let me Introduce Myself…

I’ve always been fascinated by how sound shapes experience. Whether it’s the electrifying energy of a live performance, the subtle nuances of a theatrical production, or the immersive world of pageantry arts, audio has the power to transform the way we connect with creativity.

My journey has taken me across many roles—as a trombonist, educator, designer, and audio engineer—each one deepening my understanding of how sound can elevate artistic expression. With a Bachelor of Arts in General Music (double concentration in Recording Technology and Trombone Performance) from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, I’ve had the opportunity to explore both the artistic and technical sides of audio in diverse settings.

From performing with ensembles like the UNCW Wind Symphony and Wilmington Symphony Orchestra to leading audio operations at venues like The Wilson Center and Live Oak Bank’s Riverfront Amphitheatre, I’ve worked across a spectrum of live events, national tours, Broadway productions, and competitive performing arts. My work with Carolina Gold, Alchemy Independent, and the Boston Crusaders has allowed me to bring high-level audio fidelity to the world of pageantry, combining technology and performance in exciting ways.

Now, as an Assistant Technical Director – Audio Specialist at North Carolina State University, I’m focused on enhancing live event experiences while mentoring the next generation of audio professionals. Alongside my professional work, I remain dedicated to knowledge-sharing and helping performers and creatives integrate audio technology into their craft.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of my experience, education, and skills. If you're interested in collaborating or learning more, feel free to reach out!

Kennith Watts, Jr.


Audio Engineer | Technical Specialist | System Designer and Educator


Professional Summary

Innovative and detail-oriented audio engineer with extensive experience in sound system design, live performance audio, and team collaboration. Passionate about creating impactful auditory experiences for large-scale productions. Proven ability to integrate advanced audio technologies, mentor emerging professionals, and collaborate with artists to achieve their creative vision.


Core Skills and Expertise

Advanced audio system design and optimization (Line arrays, Dante networking, SMAART, ArrayCalc)

Live sound mixing and reinforcement for large-scale productions

Acoustic analysis and venue-specific sound adaptation

Technical troubleshooting under high-pressure scenarios

Music education and mentorship

Digital consoles (Digico, Avid), DAWs (Pro Tools, Logic Pro)

Team leadership and project management

Certifications and Training

Dante Certification: Level 1 and 2 Obtained

AVIXA CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) (Planned)

L-Acoustics System Fundamentals (Planned)

SMAART Operator Certification (Planned)

d&b audiotechnik Soundscape Workshop (Planned)


Professional Experience

Assistant Technical Director - Sound Specialist
North Carolina State University
August 2024 – Present

Collaborate with the Technical Director to manage simultaneous events across three venues, Studio, Titmus, and Stewart Theatre.

Design, set up, and configure complex sound reinforcement systems for productions and client events.

Train students and freelance technicians in audio system operation and maintenance.

Perform equipment repairs, minor, and major facility maintenance to ensure seamless operations.

Audio Caption Manager / A1 Audio Engineer
The Boston Crusaders / Inspire Arts and Music
May 2022 – Present

Designed and optimized sound systems, including line arrays, microphones, and amplifiers, for touring performances.

Mixed live audio to deliver balanced, high-quality sound to audiences.

Troubleshot and resolved technical issues during live events under tight deadlines.

Collaborated with designers, stage managers, and technical crews to enhance production quality.

Head of Audio / Lead Audio Technician
The Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
March 2019 – March 2024

Led technical teams in the design, setup, and operation of audio systems for live broadcasts and performances.

Trained and mentored staff, fostering professional growth and operational excellence.

Developed innovative technical processes to optimize resources and improve production workflows.

A1 Sound Engineer / Crew Chief
Sarah Graham Kenan Auditorium at UNC Wilmington
June 2017 – August 2024

Led technical teams in the design, setup, and operation of audio systems for live broadcasts and performances.

Trained and mentored staff, fostering professional growth and operational excellence.

Mixed and mastered audio recordings for live performances and studio projects.

Set up and maintained audio recording equipment for various events.

Collaborated with performers and producers to achieve desired sound quality.


Selected Major Projects

Boston Crusaders “Boston Audio” (2022 -2025): Collaborated with designers and performers to deliver near-winning productions, managing high-pressure technical challenges and optimizing sound systems for stadium venues.


Large-Scale Venue Audio Optimization: Designed and implemented sound systems for multi-venue operations at the Wilson Center in Wilmington and Stewart Theatre in Raleigh, ensuring clarity and balance across diverse acoustic environments.


Education

Bachelor of Arts in General Music
Concentration in Trombone Performance & Music Technology
University of North Carolina Wilmington

Professional Interests

Designing large-scale sound systems for stadium tours and festivals

Mentoring and educating the next generation of audio professionals

Exploring and integrating new audio technologies for enhanced sound experiences