In an audible world where inventive sounds and expressive noises have the power to evoke a reaction, the need to conceptualize and master the science of audio creation can be seen in films, live shows, forensics, recording studios, and even video games.

Audio engineering has become a specialized role that effects that way we enjoy entertainment and receive information. As an architect that produces, mixes and records sound in a unique way for others to hear it, an audio engineer has unlimited opportunities to create a career that’s filled with small to really large projects.

Imagine being a sound engineer for the upcoming Iron Man 4 film that’s being released in 2017. Then there’s the soundboard aficionado that’s steering the night at the Maroon 5 concert at the Toyota Center; or you may be called to amplify the sound of a machine gun in the latest installment of the Call of Duty video game series. The options are endless when it comes to audio engineering.

But just like any industry, you have to be at the top of your game before your phone starts ringing off the hook, or better yet, vibrating out of control. It takes the right tools and education to sharpen your skills in audio engineering, and Avant Media Institute is the go-to choice for a new generation of audio engineers, technicians and experts.

Located at 256 North Sam Houston Parkway in North Houston, Avant Media Institute is an audio engineering school that explores digital media technologies, sound production, music theory and career training. With hands-on training provided by a group of seasoned instructors, students who enroll in the 44-week program not only receive a valuable learning experience, but they are also part of an institution that wants to make sure every single student is successful. With that being said, there are solid reasons why an inspiring sound pioneer should attend Avant.

Top 3 Reasons to Attend Avant Media Institute:

1. Curriculum is Specific to Audio Engineering: Avant Media Institute cuts to the chase and gives its students the course-specific information that they need. There aren’t any basics to take or classes that are unrelated to audio engineering. You’ll learn exactly what you need to know to become an audio engineering professional.

At Left: Armando Berrios (instructor) and Johny Ramirez (student)

2. No Overcrowded Classes: By keeping the student experience in mind, the Avant Media Institute philosophy is to keep the student-to-teacher ratio at 12 to 1. The classes are kept very small, yet with a very hands-on and personal atmosphere.

At Left: Craig Rucker (student) and Chris Rockaway (instructor)

3. The Instructors: All of the instructors at Avant Media Institute are still active in the field of audio engineering. So the students can expect to be taught by instructors who are still working in the industry and aren’t retired or working as a lawyer in their spare time. The instructors at Avant bring real world, relevant experience to the classroom, and they believe in Avant’s mission and vision for the school, making sure that the students are a top priority.

In addition to the top three reasons to attend the school, Avant is also known for its competitive tuition structure that students find appealing. Avant’s President Ryan Klonek says, “We provide the highest quality education for the most affordable cost.”

At Left: Johny Ramirez (student) and Alan Escalante (instructor)

Those interested in attending Avant will have to complete a scholarship questionnaire on why they want to attend the school. Once accepted, students can call Avant’s 6,000 square-foot space home for nearly a year. Courses will include quizzes, labs and tests, with the ultimate goal of graduating with not only a certificate in audio engineering, but also real job experience.

“Before graduation, many of our students are working on internship programs,” said Career Services Representative Juan Carlos Zermeno. “Avant works with different churches, studios and venues in Houston so our students can do these kinds of jobs.”

In addition to the internship programs that it assists students with, Avant wants to be known as a networking school. They realize that having the skills to be an audio engineer isn’t enough. You have to build relationships and create a social atmosphere where people not only know your name, but also your talents. The internships are a way to build up the student’s network of contacts and new business relationships.

Open enrollment for the January 2017 classes is happening now. Classes start on Jan. 9, and the school is excited to bring in a new crop of students for the coming year.

“What we really want to provide here is that family feeling and to let students know that we’re here as a support system,” said Assistant Director Nancy Turcios. “At the end of the day, we want them to be successful and want them to graduate and get them in the career field.”

Take a virtual tour of Avant Media Institute to see the school up close.

At Left: Avant Graduate Davon Jamison, Juan Carlos Zermeno and Nancy Turcios

For more information on the January enrollment, call 832.404.6166. You can also visit Avantmediainstitute.com.