Women in Pro Audio: Ashley Costello Women in Pro Audio: Ashley Costello...
In an industry where men have long held the majority of roles, showcasing the achievements of women in pro audio is crucial. Representation paves the way for future generations, demonstrating that women can and do excel in technical roles. By amplifying the voices of those already in the field, we can inspire more women to enter and succeed in this space. Ashley Costello, an audio technician, offers a candid look into her life as a woman in pro audio.
From Music Store to Pro Audio
Ashley’s path to pro audio was influenced by her upbringing. “When I was younger, I had no idea you could make a living doing what I’m doing, nor did I really know that these kinds of jobs existed,” she reflects. Her parents owned Costello’s Music, a music store in Fredonia, New York, and later in Florida. “I worked there and helped out all through middle and high school, and being in a band was a huge part of my life.”
Despite this musical background, Ashley’s career path didn’t solidify until her junior year at Florida State University. While studying there, she became involved in stagehand work and ran audio for her first theater show. “That’s when I realized that people really do this for a living, and I wanted to do more.”
Her father, Jim Costello, an AVL installation professional and technical director at a local church, played a significant role in guiding her. “My dad was also the technical director at a local church and ran front-of-house. He wanted me to volunteer there, so I grudgingly agreed to be the camera switcher for the live stream,” she explains. “Although reluctant at first, Ashley recognizes now how valuable that experience was.”
Taking her father’s advice, Ashley sought opportunities and landed a job running sound for a church despite having no prior experience. “I watched a LOT of videos, asked my dad a ton of questions, and ended up learning ProPresenter and helping out with social media too.” She also gained valuable experience as a stagehand through a connection with her father’s friend. By her senior year, she became the first student ever offered the position of audio technician at Florida State University’s student union.
Challenges and Triumphs
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Ashley has faced her share of challenges. “Sometimes it’s a struggle to have a significant voice and have people take you seriously, especially as someone who looks young and is a woman,” she notes. She recounts an incident where a band member questioned her ability to perform a basic task: “I had a band member ask if I knew how to turn up their mic while I was their monitor person. Maybe they had bad luck with engineers earlier on their tour, but I have a strong feeling that comment wouldn’t have been made if I had a beard,” she jokes.
Despite these occasional hurdles, Ashley emphasizes the positive support she’s received. “My coworkers, past and present, and management have always been super supportive of me, and I’m very fortunate.”
She highlights the importance of embracing new experiences, even when they seem intimidating. “I was A2 for the main cast performance at a Shakespeare theater festival, managing wireless mics. I had never really dealt with wireless mics before or managing RF, so it was stressful and a bit scary to be thrown into it, especially when things went wrong. But in this industry, there are so many different situations, different shows, different gear, and there isn’t a course or book you can read—you just have to get out there and do it.”
Advocating for Women in Pro Audio
Ashley believes that increasing the visibility of women in pro audio is crucial for attracting more women to the field. “It really helps to simply see women doing these jobs. Growing up, if it weren’t for my parents, I don’t think I would’ve ever thought about it or pursued what I’m doing now.”
She also stresses the importance of safe and supportive work environments. “At AVL Productions, my coworkers always create a safe environment for me and have my back. Anytime we’re at a venue I’m unfamiliar with, or if it’s dark and I need to find a bathroom, someone always makes sure to walk with me and ensure I’m okay.”
For women aspiring to enter the industry, Ashley offers this advice: “Church is a great place to start—they’re always looking for good help. Installation companies are great places to learn because you’ll use different tools, learn how systems are wired, troubleshoot, and more. And, of course, try and find a local production company or join your local stagehand union.”
She encourages women to be confident and go for opportunities, even if they don’t feel completely qualified. “My dad always encouraged me to go for jobs or opportunities that I didn’t necessarily feel qualified for. I’m not saying lie or apply for something you know NOTHING about, but it doesn’t hurt to apply! The worst anyone can say is no, so go for it and don’t sell yourself short.”
Memorable Moments and Future Aspirations
Ashley’s career has been filled with diverse experiences. “At AVL Productions, we get hired for quite a few comedy tours. I got to work on a Tom Segura show in Alabama and an 85 South show in Jacksonville. Buddy Guy’s show was also memorable for me because his team and band were so nice to work with.”
Reflecting on what she loves most about her job, she says, “I love the people I meet through my job. And all of the unique experiences I have gotten to be a part of. I’ve met so many inspiring people and made some of my closest friends through my job.”
She fondly recalls her first festival experience with AVL Productions at the Suwannee Spring Reunion. “It takes place at the Suwannee National Park, which has acres and acres of forest and camping grounds. I remember driving the golf cart from stage to stage, hanging out with my coworkers, getting to ride through the woods at night in the cart, and seeing some really cool live music.”
Looking to the Future
Ashley is optimistic about the future of live events, especially in the wake of the pandemic. “I hope the pandemic made people realize how important live music is. Because I truly feel like it’s something that will never go away,” she shares. “I hope to continue to see more women in the industry and more young people like me! We are the next generation and I just hope young people continue to get involved and find opportunities to work.”
When asked about her own career goals, Ashley says, “I would love to one day work on a tour. And either do FOH or monitors or work with a musical theater production one day. I also really admire system techs and the work that goes into tuning a PA, especially with L’Acoustics software.”
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
Ashley expresses her gratitude for those who have supported her journey. “I would, of course, like to thank my dad for supporting me in everything I do and teaching me so much. (It definitely comes in handy when your dad is also a sound person),” she says. “I also would really like to thank Stephen Unkelbach, the owner of AVL Productions, for allowing me to shadow him, giving me access to L-Acoustics classes, and teaching me so much!”
To keep up with Ashley, follow her on Instagram.
Read last month’s Women in Pro Audio interview here.