ALEX OUR COMMERCIAL AUDIO ENGINEER REFLECTS ON 6 MONTHS AT THE STUDIO
Six months might not seem like a long time, but at Pressure Cooker Studios, it’s enough to make a lasting impression. Our team is built on collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for creating world-class work.
Alex Smillie, our Commercial Audio Engineer, has been with us for half a year now, and his contributions have already become an integral part of the studio.
We asked Alex a few questions to get him to reflect on his journey so far, and he shared his experiences, insights, and what it’s been like to be part of the Pressure Cooker Studios family.
Tell us what it’s been like working at PCS so far?
“It’s hard to believe it’s been six months since I started at Pressure Cooker Studios.
Time seems to fly in a place that’s as dynamic and fast-paced as this, especially working on the commercial side, where every day feels so unique. The energy in the studio is genuinely one-of-a-kind, thanks to the incredibly talented team that makes up Pressure Cooker Studios. Each person here has their own unique style and perspective, which means every project benefits from a mix of creative “flavours” that add a special touch to the work we deliver.
From the moment I walked in, it was clear that Pressure Cooker Studios is more than just a workplace – it’s a place where collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. The studio’s atmosphere has this mix of warmth and focus, making it easy to feel at home while also pushing each of us to deliver our best.
It’s inspiring to work with colleagues who are not only exceptionally skilled but also passionate about what they do. The culture here is so welcoming that it’s easy to feel like you belong from day one.”
Tell us about some of the work you’ve done since being at the studio. What have been the highlights or challenges?
“During my time here, I’ve met some fantastically creative people and worked on massive campaigns for some of the most well-known brands in the country such as Castle, Takealot, Adidas, Checkers, and many more. It has been challenging, with tight deadlines and high expectations, but seeing the final product out in the world is so rewarding.
There have been plenty of technical challenges too – I’ve had to learn new software, follow new processes, and adapt to the fast-paced demands of the commercial audio world. Each project has sharpened my skills in sound design and editing, with a new technique or tool to master every day. Working with such high expectations makes every success feel all the more rewarding.
I’ve also been incredibly lucky to have Chloe with me at the core of the commercial department. It feels like we’re making waves together and have had each other’s back since day one.”
Reflecting on where you started, how have your expectations been met or exceeded?
“When I joined PCS, I was excited about the potential for collaboration and working within a larger team. Reflecting now, I can honestly say that the experience has exceeded my expectations. Seeing how each person brings a unique approach to their role has taught me so much – not only about the craft but about working as part of a team where everyone truly values each other’s input.”
Any key takeaways from your time working at the studio so far?
“A core PCS value I’ve grown to appreciate deeply is “Collaborate or Die.” It’s not just a catchy phrase here; it’s a way of working that defines every project. The idea that we’re all in this together is something you feel at every level, whether it’s bouncing ideas off a colleague or supporting each other during crunch times. I’ve learned that even the smallest contributions can make a huge impact on the final product, and that sense of collaboration is incredibly fulfilling.
Looking back on these six months, I feel lucky to be part of a place that doesn’t just create amazing work but fosters a culture where every voice matters. I’m excited to see what the future holds and am grateful to be a part of PCS’s journey.”
Alex is part of what we like to call our ‘Dedicated Commercial Team’. Chloe Elliis, Pressure Cooker Studios Commercial Producer, has this to add: “Working alongside Alex has been fantastic—his engineering expertise brings such depth to every project we tackle in commercial audio. Together, we’ve built a department that consistently delivers exceptional results. We’re just getting started, and I’m excited about where we’re headed with new collaborators and fresh tools to elevate our work even further.”
Alex’s reflections remind us why we’re so passionate about the work we do and the culture we’ve built with our creativehub at Pressure Cooker Studios. His growth over the past six months speaks to the power of collaboration, a value that drives us daily. We’re excited to see Alex continue to thrive as part of our team. Here’s to many more milestones, both for Alex and for PCS!
