Joel M Martin
M.A.T. Candidate – University of North Georgia
GaPSC 652 Certification Track: Audio/Video Technology & Film
Educational & Professional Background
Joel M Martin is an emerging educator, multimedia engineer, musician, and youth leader with a strong foundation in sound, music, vocals, stage performance, and live production technology.
He holds a:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Religion with a Minor in Education (Summa Cum Laude, Liberty University, 2026)
- Diploma in PC Repair (Ashworth College, 2007)
- Associate Degree in Youth Ministries (Rhema Bible College, 2001)
He is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Audio/Video Technology & Film at the University of North Georgia (starting Fall 2026) — the GaPSC-approved pathway for educators in CTAE Area 652.
Before transitioning into formal classroom instruction, Mr. Martin served as a multimedia engineer, creator, worship pastor, youth pastor, pastor, and media director across multiple churches and organizations in Georgia. His career combines technical production expertise with artistic performance and leadership, encompassing school, community, and regional events such as musicals, worship productions, youth conferences, leadership retreats, summer camps, and large-scale conventions.
He has also directed smaller-scale community productions, including Habersham Christian Learning Center fundraisers, widows’ ministry events, and local benefit productions. These projects strengthened his skills in budgeting, volunteer coordination, and professional event design — experience that directly supports student-led learning environments.
Professional Expertise
- Design and installation of digital audio, professional camera systems, lighting, and projection systems for churches, schools, and large venues.
- Leadership in live sound reinforcement, music performance, and stage management across ministry and educational settings.
- Engineering and directing both large- and small-scale events, including youth camps, camp meetings, local outreach events, conferences, and community fundraisers.
- Training and supervising youth and volunteers in live sound, video, lighting, and multimedia presentation.
- Operation of professional hardware such as Behringer X32/S32 digital consoles, Shure BLX14R wireless systems, UA844+SWB antenna distribution, Matrox TripleHead2Go, and Blackmagic Design ATEM (Television Studio, HD, SDI, Mini, etc.) switchers.
- Proficiency with DaVinci Resolve, Wondershare Filmora, Pinnacle Studio, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Audition, Wirecast Pro, and ProPresenter for editing, live playback, and synchronized multimedia presentation.
- Also proficient in Adobe Acrobat, Dreamweaver, and Photoshop, as well as the complete Microsoft Office Suite. Holds an active Microsoft Partner Network Membership (since 2002).
Instructional Philosophy
Mr. Martin’s instructional philosophy emphasizes student-led, project-based learning that merges artistic creativity with technical precision. Students in his classes are empowered to lead production teams, plan event logistics, and manage setup and live operations — gaining confidence and leadership experience while mastering A/V technology.
By drawing on his background in music, performance, and sound engineering, he helps students understand how to support performers, manage stage flow, and maintain professional stage presence. This approach aligns directly with Georgia’s Career, Technical, and Leadership Readiness (CTAE) standards and the expectations of GaPSC Certification 652.
Community Engagement & Mentorship
Mr. Martin continues to partner with local churches, music instructors, and live production professionals to create internship and mentorship opportunities for students. His ongoing involvement in community events, fundraisers, and outreach productions demonstrates a consistent commitment to using technical skills for public service and leadership development.
Through his combined expertise in pastoring, youth leadership, multimedia engineering, music performance, vocal performance, and live event production, Mr. Martin provides Stephens County Schools with a strong instructional foundation for a student-led Audio/Video Technology & Film pathway that fulfills both GaPSC Certification 652 and GaDOE CTAE standards.