Niagara College Audio and Media Production students are primed for the big leagues after a game-changing $1.75-million technology upgrade.

Through the provincial College Equipment and Renewal Fund (CERF), the College has been awarded a Ministry allocation of $878,985, matched dollar-for-dollar by NC. The total project cost of more than $1,757,970 has dramatically enhanced experiential learning opportunities for students.

The funded project, “Live, Remote Broadcasting and Internet Protocol (IP) production” introduces innovative technologies in remote live production and content delivery. Thanks to the investment, four new industry-standard cameras have been integrated into the College’s mobile TV truck alongside a state-of-the-art core network router at the Welland Campus.

“We sincerely thank the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security for their continued support of our students,” said College President Sean Kennedy. “Our Audio and Media Production program (formerly Broadcasting Radio, Television and Film) is renowned for its exceptional graduates, faculty and world-class live production capabilities. This vital investment amplifies our expertise by giving students hands-on experience with elite, industry standard technology, ensuring they are fully prepared for the future of media and ready to excel in their careers.” 

“Our government is building the workforce of tomorrow – one that is adaptable, cutting-edge and innovative,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “By investing in state-of-the-art buildings and learning equipment, we are ensuring Ontario’s students are equipped to thrive as leaders in the modern economy.”

“By expanding key programs and modernizing learning tools, our government is equipping students to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving economy,” said Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, who spoke at the event. “Because Ontario’s world-class colleges are integral to building and protecting our workforce. Because the students, instructors and support staff here at Niagara College today are leading the way as we forge the future of Ontario.”

Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff joined NC for the provincial College Equipment and Renewal Fund announcement.

The upgrades ensure that NC stands out for its elite mobile and remote production capabilities. Because the technology mirrors the equipment currently being adopted by major national broadcasters, NC’s Audio and Media Production students are uniquely positioned to meet the demands of live sports broadcasting – one of-the fastest growing segments of the media industry.

“This investment highlights the unique, high-level sports broadcasting capabilities our program possesses,” said Duane Bender, Dean of Media, Trades and Technology. “As live sports production continues to expand, this cutting-edge equipment allows us to seamlessly meet new program standards and ensure our students graduate with a distinct competitive advantage.”

Through the investment, four new industry-standard cameras have been integrated into the College’s mobile TV truck alongside a state-of-the-art core network router at the Welland Campus.

The mobile TV truck upgrades empower students to produce high-profile community and international projects that replicate industry trends. In the coming months, students will deploy the equipment to cover major events, including theU14 Canada Basketball Championships and the Royal Henley Regatta, producing content capable of being aired on major networks.

“We are installing the absolute latest technology at the same time as it’s being adopted by the professional industry,” said Professor Peter (Dutch) VandenBerg. “This is exactly what our students will use when they graduate and enter the workforce. It allows our students to tackle some of the most adventurous national and international sports competitions and events, providing unmatched experiential learning opportunities.”

For students, the impact of training on top-of-the-line gear is immediate.

Three years ago, Fonthill resident Kenzie Kehoe enrolled in the program with aspirations in Film but discovered a passion for live sports broadcasting after gaining hands-on experience across various crew positions in the College’s mobile TV truck.

“We are so lucky at Niagara College to have all of this and be taught by real professionals how to use it,” said Kehoe. “The amazing images and capabilities we get to use and capture is mind-blowing.”

NC student Kenzie Kehoe.

Kehoe recently completed an internship at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto. While networking with professionals at the global tournament, she had a striking realization about the value of her NC education.

“I got to meet camera operators who showed me the gear they use and the majority of it was stuff we get to use here at the College,” said Kehoe. “I remember thinking how cool it was that we were using the same stuff as they use for one of the world’s largest events!”

Third-year student Brendan Beilmann, originally from Edmonton, also completed an audio internship for the 2026 World Cup in Toronto. He specifically moved to Niagara to pursue live sports audio production.

“Niagara College has a great reputation for having one of the best broadcast programs in the country, and the gear contributes to that,” said Beilman. “The new equipment has given me the confidence to step into professional event spaces and fit in. It allows you to feel like your education is relevant and will provide you with the right experience to succeed in the industry.”

Formerly called Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film, Audio and Media Production is a three-year advanced diploma program, based at the Welland Campus, which prepares students to create, produce and deliver professional content for today’s evolving media landscape.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Julie Greco
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905-328-2532
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