Edward Fotinos’ Journey from ACCTV to Austin PBS
For Edward Fotinos, television and film have always been more than entertainment—they’ve been a lifelong passion. Growing up in Austin, he was drawn to the screen early and found joy in performing and making people laugh.
“I have always been obsessed with TV, movies, and everything related to them,” Edward says. “My first love is acting, and I took numerous classes and attended McCallum Fine Arts Academy. I have always loved entertaining people, so when it came time to choose what I would study, I opted for the practical side of what I already enjoyed doing.”
Edward began at Austin Community College District (ACC) in 2021. Like many students, he wasn’t entirely sure what direction to take at first. He knew he wanted to stay close to the world of storytelling. When he discovered the Radio, Television, and Film program, along with the internship opportunities offered through ACCTV, everything clicked.
“ACCTV was a significant reason why I chose to attend ACC in the first place,” he says. “The state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on training were invaluable.”
Edward dove into the work, exploring both the technical and creative sides of production.
“When I began at ACCTV, my main goal was to work within the traditional TV or film environment,” he explains. “However, it gave me an entirely new perspective and professional path to consider. It was my first experience in that setting, and I discovered many aspects that I loved about live production and broadcasting. There is a sense of instant gratification in seeing everything come together without editing, and especially when you have an audience.”
He also found joy in creative projects that reminded him why he fell in love with film in the first place.
“Within ACC, I usually found myself performing comedic skits, but we also recreated movie scenes shot-for-shot. My favorite was a scene recreation of “The Mask” (1994), where I planned and ultimately ended up acting in as well. From the planning shots to makeup and execution, everything came together perfectly. I always find myself more motivated by projects that I enjoy, so doing something with the intention of making people laugh or smile is always a great advantage for me.”
That hands-on experience and the professionalism expected at ACCTV set him up perfectly for his next step—an internship at Austin PBS, which has since turned into ongoing work.
“This experience greatly helped me with PBS,” he says. “The facilities are very similar but not identical, which gave me a lot of practical experience and know-how without having to start from scratch. While we always had fun at ACC, there was always an air of professionalism that prepared me for a career in the real business. From setting up to studio etiquette and general organization, ACC provided me with the tools I use every day in my career.”
At Austin PBS, Edward’s work has spanned productions from Austin City Limits to Austin Insight, exposing him to every corner of the industry.
“Helping to shoot music is another interesting facet of my job at PBS; it is such a long-running show in Austin’s history, and it is an honor to be a part of that continued legacy.”
He’s also proud of the work he’s done on Austin Insight. “I have also loved being part of the Austin Insight crew, from stories about BBQ at Leroy and Lewis, rocket ships at Firefly Aerospace, and firefighting at a fire station. This is mobile journalism, so it is always interesting to show up at any location and figure out how best to make it work.”
Looking ahead, Edward plans to continue building his skills and experiences. “I plan to continue to work in the industry and find my niche,” he says. “Aside from my work at PBS, I have a few freelance projects, including filming a ballet and a church service. I am always seeking new opportunities and experiences. Currently, I am seeking to take on as much work as possible to gain the extra knowledge and edge I need.”
He credits his professors at ACC for guiding him along the way. “James Froeschle, Cathy Welch, and Phil Collins—all professors at ACC—helped with my growth,” Edward says. “Especially James Froeschle, who introduced me to live production and first told me about the internship at PBS.”
His advice for other students: “Go for it,” Edward says. “If you are passionate about this field, let that shine through. Include a cover letter with your application and tell about yourself! Especially if you have little experience, that can set you apart. But be yourself—there are so many talented and kind people at PBS who are excited to have you.”
How Jose Turned an Internship Into a Career
When Jose Alfredo Campuzano Jr. started at Austin Community College District (ACC) in 2019, he never expected his studies would lead him directly to a job at Austin PBS.
“I have been on a college journey with many ups and downs, but I always told myself that I will finish one day. I have learned a lot through my time at ACC and grown into who I’ve always wanted to become.”
As a first-generation college student, Jose’s path hasn’t always been straightforward. He changed majors twice, earned an Associate Degree in Architectural and Engineering Computer-Aided Design, and is now working toward his Bachelor of Applied Technology in Manufacturing Engineering Technology, set to graduate in 2026.
Through ACC’s Audio Technology and Industry Program, Jose discovered a passion for music production. That passion connected him with an internship at Austin PBS. This experience became the launching pad for his career.
“I came in here with really no experience, just from what I had learned from Audio Engineering I and Hip-Hop Production. I think Austin PBS gave me the foundation to explore different avenues and to get behind-the-scenes action from working on interviews to helping stage manage bands.”
He even got to take what he learned in the classroom and put it into practice at a legendary Austin staple.
“My favorite part was ACL (Austin City Limits) and getting to see a whole production and show come together. I will forever be grateful for the relationships I made and will continue to make since I am now an employee.”
Jose credits his professors, lab monitors, and mentors for preparing him for the opportunity. He especially recognizes Ray Lamana from the Audio Department, the Audio MIDI Lab team, and Austin PBS staff, including Juliana Kolk, Randy Reynolds, JJ Weber, Stephanie Dale, and Artemis Lesgaux.
“I enjoy the connections I have made and how much I have learned in so little time. I really enjoy the process of making something and seeing the vision for it, then applying it to real life.”
Looking ahead, Jose plans to finish his bachelor’s, continue studying audio production at ACC, and pursue creative projects in music and media. He also accepted a full time position at Page, now Stantec, as a Fire Alarm Designer.
“Music is my next calling, and not for the fame nor the money but for the art and the love for music I have. It brings people together, and I want to be part of that.”
For Jose, ACC was more than just a stepping stone; it was the bridge that connected him to the career he has today.
“My advice for someone looking for an internship is to show pride in what you do and always be open to learning and asking questions, and make sure you love what you do. Don’t get discouraged—when one door closes, three more open.”
For more information about internship opportunities at ACC, visit austincc.edu/internships.