FIYou: Andres Benoit

Name: Andres Benoit

Hometown: Miami, Fla.

Job Title/Department: Audio Visual & Events Specialist, Graham Center

Campus: Modesto A. Maidique Campus

In a nutshell: I provide audio/visual support to events in the Graham Center and I implement technological solutions to maintain the high demands of advanced and effective presentation equipment. I also assist with graphic design, video editing and other operational duties as needed for the Graham Center.

Number of years at FIU: 10

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The many experiences and skills I continue to acquire, from creative to organizational to professional to legal to operational to technological, as well as the many relationships I’ve developed that have impacted me. I have the opportunity to explore and learn something new every day by being a part of so many events that happen in the Graham Center.

What do you think students and your fellow faculty/staff should know about your department?

The AV department provides more than just equipment solutions for your event production needs. Aside from reserving equipment, our staff is available to set up and configure the equipment to your specific needs. The staff is also trained in IT solutions to configure your laptops to the optimal settings for presentations and performance. We also assist with the digital signage displays (LCDs), building music selection and clock and bells system, and we look forward to implementing future technological upgrades that enhance the student experience at the Graham Center.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? Why?

The entire Graham Center building is a favorite spot with all its services, amenities and energetic life flowing through. It’s our “home-away-from-home,” where all the fun happens.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about FIU?

Everyone can see the construction expansions of our campus, but I’m not sure if everyone realizes the interior quality that is being enhanced.

Family snapshot:

I am a proud son of supportive and loving Colombian parents, with an older sister. The latest addition to the family is my sneaky but adorable 7-year-old niece. A majority of my family still resides in Colombia.

Word that best describes you: Determined.

First paying job: Besides DJing house parties at the age of 15, I worked at Milam’s Supermarket, mainly as a bag boy but also assisted in the stocking and produce departments.

Favorite TV show: Entourage, The Office, Burn Notice and White Collar. I couldn’t just pick one because each brings its own special characteristic quality and emotion.

What is playing on your iPod?

My own podcast, House Infusion, which contains tracks by various artists composed into DJ mixes of progressive-house, funk-house, tech-house and electro-house music. You can subscribe to it for free on iTunes.

Your proudest accomplishment:

So far, graduating top of my class at the School of Audio Engineering Institute in North Miami Beach.

What do you do when you are not working at FIU?

Record new episodes for my podcast, House Infusion. DJ at various events. Going to the shooting range. In general, I am always interested in learning and experiencing something new.