This Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting some of the talented women helping shape the creative community here at SAE Institute. At the SAE Institute Miami campus, Studio Technician Carolina Orjuela plays an important role in supporting students as they bring their ideas to life in the studio. Beyond helping manage sessions and troubleshoot gear, she’s also an active DJ and music producer making a splash in the Miami music scene. In this interview, Carolina shares how she first discovered her love for audio, what it’s like working behind the scenes, and her advice for women looking to break into the industry.
1.) What first sparked your interest in music?
My curiosity about music really started when I began wondering how songs were actually made. Meeting producers who had created some of my favorite tracks inspired me to try producing myself. From there, I dove into learning music production and audio engineering, which eventually led me to my path as a DJ and music producer.
2.) What’s a typical day like for you as a Studio Tech at the Miami campus, and what do you enjoy most about working there?
A typical day involves helping students set up sessions, troubleshooting gear, and managing studio bookings. What I enjoy most is being surrounded by so much creativity and helping students bring their projects to life. The best part is seeing someone solve a problem or hit their creative stride, it makes all the technical work worth it.
3.) Outside of SAE, you’re also a DJ and music producer. Tell us about how you got started and what your creative process is like.
I started producing reggaeton and gradually shifted toward tech house and Latin house after discovering the rhythm and energy of those genres. DJing came later, inspired by people around me at SAE and the idea of eventually playing my own tracks. My creative process usually starts with a groove or percussion pattern, and from there I layer sounds and experiment with the arrangement until the track starts to take shape.
4.) Where do you think the music and audio industry is making progress for women, and where is there still room to grow?
There’s more visibility and representation for women in DJing, production, and audio engineering, which is encouraging. However, the industry is still largely male dominated, especially in technical leadership roles, and women often have to prove themselves more to be taken seriously. Don’t let that stop you!!!
5.) What advice do you have for other women who may want to follow in your footsteps but are hesitant to work in a male-dominated industry?
Don’t be afraid to take the first step. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers, focus on building your skills, and let your work speak for itself. Confidence and persistence go a long way. Believe in yourself, be willing to get uncomfortable, and keep pushing forward.
To connect with Carolina, follow her on Instagram @orac.mp3. For more info about SAE Institute or our programs in Audio, Entertainment Business, or Digital Film, visit us online at usa.sae.edu.
