Television Graphics Operator

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Karen Baumbach: Karen Baumbach is Television Graphics Operator, meaning she builds the graphics and play backs for airing shows. She started her career on CNN, then went to CBS and is currently working for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” Mrs. Baumbach attended Hofstra University where she got her Bachelor of Science in Television Production and Business. As a television graphic operator, Mrs. Baumbach works in the control rooms building graphics for that day’s show. Then, at the director’s cue, she plays back her graphics. There are two paths in this industry: staff and freelance. Mrs. Baumbach works in freelance where she’s able to bounce between networks, different graphic materials, and collaborate with different crews. As a freelancer, Mrs. Baumach is always open to new shows and she loves the excitement of the unpredictability that comes with the role. She truly believes it was the most fulfilling career path for her. “When you know your career choice, make sure you choose a college that is well known for that major, with solid networking opportunities. While it’s good to know what you want to do, not everyone has that clarity at 18 years old.  It is equally important to know what you do not want to do.  This will help you narrow the field and prevent you from wasting time in areas that don’t interest you.  Focus on your organic interests and research careers within that scope.  There are a lot of careers that are under the radar that you can uncover with a little digging.  I had no idea where television graphics came from or how they were made.  I certainly didn’t know it was a career path.  What I did know was that when I was little I loved art, putting on shows, and being creative. Connecting your interests to a paying career is the best path to a happy future.”