Aaron "Smiley" Cate

Introduction

I am a live music lover with 1000s of shows under my belt, turned live visual artist, turned self-taught audiovisual technician with years of hands-on experience in live event production. My expertise comes from working directly in the field, setting up and operating AV systems at festivals, raves, and concerts. I have honed my skills through real-world applications rather than traditional certifications, making me highly adaptable and efficient in fast-paced environments.

Credentials & Qualifications

• Years of hands-on experience in AV setup, live visuals, and event production
• Deep knowledge of 2D and 3D digital visuals, projection mapping, and LED wall operation
• Strong background in live visual mixing and VJing for music events
• Proficient with industry-standard AV software and hardware
• Experienced in troubleshooting and problem-solving under live event conditions
• Extensive collaboration with artists, musicians, and event organizers

Work Experience

Freelance AV Technician / Visual Artist / Stagehand (2018 – Present)

• Designed and executed live visuals for concerts, festivals, and raves
• Set up and operated LED walls, projectors, and other display technologies
• Managed audio-visual components for multi-stage events
• Coordinated with event organizers and technical teams to ensure seamless execution
• Worked hundreds of shows in various roles, from pushing cases to doing security to running visuals

Smilebot Productions (2012 – Present)

• Designed logos, merchandise, websites, brands, visuals for clients across industries
• Video production for events, music videos, parties, businesses including smart installs, LED panels, TVs, lighting, audio, and projectors
• 3D/VR design and implementation for virtual experiences and events
• Live streamcast producer/technician for large virtual events and concerts

Notable Events & Projects

• Country Music Awards – Prop Dept, I.A.T.S.E – Assisted in stage setup, prop management, and breakdown
• Imagine Music Festival – Video Production Lead (V1) – Managed video production, content execution, and team leadership
• Believe Music Hall – Visual Director & Video Lead/VJ – Oversaw full video production, upgrades, and crew coordination

Skills & Technical Proficiency

• Software: Resolume, TouchDesigner, MadMapper, Adobe Suite
• Hardware: LED walls, projectors, media servers, lighting control systems
• Live Production: VJing, video mixing, projection mapping, stage setup, stagehand
• Troubleshooting: Equipment maintenance, system optimization
• Collaboration: DJs, musicians, festival teams, stage crews

References

• Joey Appleseed (Iris Presents / Imagine Music Festival) – 770.912.6752
• Aireon “Ployd” Grimes (Slow&Low Presents) – 678.480.5784
• Brannon Boyle (SpeakeasyPresents) – 404.281.2373
• Kevin Rodriguez (Aisle5, Georgia Event Specialists) – 470.725.8323