I worked for NBC Burbank for 30 years. The last 12 years there, I was the audio mixer for Today In LA, the early morning news. Working that show had some regularity to it and I didn't have to travel which was great with 3 kids at home and a working wife. I hoped to retire at age 65, but along came this computer which could operate all the cameras, graphics, pre-recorded packages, and the audio.
I had enough seniority to stay at NBC, but I had no idea what I would be scheduled to work on. They offered me a sweet buyout and I took it. That was 15 years ago. I don't miss having to be at work at 4:00 AM, but I do miss the camaraderie we had as a crew. I'm still close friends with several of them, but it's not the same as working together. If tonight was 20 years ago, I'd be looking at getting to work at 4:00 AM to do commercial control for the Rose Parade. I do miss the fun and excitement of live TV, but we must move on and I'm glad I did.
I'm 75 now and my technology and knowledge are no longer applicable.
Happy New Year all you Quadheads. Here's hoping 2025 is a healthy and happy year for all of us.