Jozsef Pinter, solutions architect at Interra Systems
Talk us through an average day in your role
As a solutions architect at Interra Systems, I work closely with our European customers to assist with their day-to-day technical questions and long-term projects. Understanding their workflows and needs is essential to my job, not only when proposing solutions, but when providing feedback to the development team shaping the future of our products.
Over the years, our software solutions have earned a solid reputation for delivering exceptional file-based quality control in the field. Their success was made possible through our communications with leading broadcasters, telcos, and post production companies. As a solutions architect, I create a bridge between our customers and our developers, while also collaborating with our sales, product management, and marketing teams, in addition to channel and third-party technical partners.
As part of Interra Systems’ European team, I primarily work remotely when not visiting customers or attending trade shows. So, when the Covid lockdown began, it wasn’t a big adjustment for me. Still, like most people, the pandemic stopped me from traveling for a while and I’ve missed it. Since the world has reopened, I’m really enjoying meeting people face-to-face again.
How did you get started in the media industry?
I started early. At the age of 13 I went to my local radio station and asked them to let me carry their bags in exchange for their tutelage, and I was only 15 when I joined the local TV station. I was still a student at high school but was clearly taken in by the media industry vibe, and by the time I started college I already had experience in radio and TV.
After finishing my studies, I began my first full-time job at a local system integrator company in Hungary. I also spent some time as a video editor and was involved in business development, but the system integration business was my focus for several years. Learning about technology and designing a variety of systems for post-production, automated playout, TV studios, and more kept me excited. However, the local market was also limited in many ways. Joining Interra Systems opened up a whole new world for me. It’s been 11 years now and I’m thrilled to be working with such a great company that provides industry-leading solutions to a range of international customers.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
Officially, I have a bachelor’s degree in communication technical engineering and a variety of product training certificates that I’ve collected over the years. Unofficially, I’ve spent a lot of time studying on my own and collecting real-life experience in the field. In fact, with the rapid evolution of technology in our industry, it’s become increasingly important to self-educate. It’s just part of the role — when something new comes along, you have to sit down and learn it. I’m very lucky in this regard, as Interra Systems makes learning easy. Training sessions are a high priority and organised in a regular manner. Upon joining Interra Systems, my first trip involved visiting our R&D team for hands-on product training.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
As I mentioned, I’ve had a passion for this from a young age, and I doubt I’d ever want to move to another industry. I have been given a rare opportunity to combine my profession with my hobby. I love working with audio, video, and system design. The technology is constantly changing and there is always something new to learn. It’s gratifying to be part of this industry with a company like Interra Systems, where I’m surrounded by a highly skilled professional team that works together to help our customers achieve better quality as they deliver their content to millions of viewers around the globe.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
I would advise that they focus on communication and learning. This industry is all about communication, so if there’s something you want to achieve, go talk to someone and listen carefully to what they have to say. An honest discussion and a willingness to learn go a very long way. And as that young boy carrying bags for the local radio DJ could tell you, it’s never too early to start having those conversations. As your technical experience grows and your career progresses, there will be numerous opportunities to continue your education with others further up the industry ladder.
