Behind the Light: Meet Eric King, President of MACCAM Technical Services

Tell us how your career in set lighting began?

My journey in this dynamic industry began in the late 1980s at Lightmaker Co., a proud subsidiary of Camera Platforms International. I was only 18, immersed in the meticulous construction of HMI lighting ballasts, a critical component for high-quality film and television production.

I explored every facet of manufacturing: from intricate sub-component assembly to rigorous final testing and quality control. At one point, I even oversaw the machine shop, deepening my understanding of precision engineering. One of my most vivid memories? Working on equipment for the Terminator 2 set at the LA harbor.

What were some key milestones along the way?

In 1992, I joined IBEW Local 40 and collaborated with Sam Schibetta at the Warner Brothers set lighting repair shop. By 1994, I had founded an HMI and dimmer repair shop at the CBS Studio Center (now Radford Studio Center), servicing essential production lighting equipment.

“I still remember rigging the shower on Big Brother so the hot water ran cold, sometimes technical work has a playful side.”

I earned my certification as an Authorized Service Center for Strand Lighting, and later in 2020 became a warranty service center for both Creamsource and Nanlux. In 2023, I partnered with Michael McDonald and the Maccam family to launch Maccam Technical Services, further expanding our expertise. By May 2024, we became a certified warranty service center for Astera.

Eric and teammates at CBS studio

What is your role at MACCAM Technical Services?

As President and head technician of Maccam Technical Services, I leverage over three decades of experience to lead our technical operations. The independence of running my own company is invaluable, it allows me to make swift decisions without corporate red tape, ensuring we adapt quickly to client needs.

What challenges do you see in today’s industry?

Technology moves fast, and firmware updates are constant. I maintain detailed logs to track versions and changes. My work involves close collaboration with manufacturers, providing feedback and assisting in product improvement cycles.

I also design custom equipment for the prop industry, a creative outlet that keeps me challenged and inspired.

What part of the work do you enjoy the most?

Onsite service calls are my favorite. There’s something deeply rewarding about solving a problem face-to-face and seeing the relief on a client’s face when the job is done right.

When I troubleshoot, I focus on the most complex problem first. I love dissecting equipment failures and piecing together their story, it’s like detective work for machines.

What advice would you give to the next generation entering this field?

In today’s fast-moving world, continuous learning is non-negotiable. Read, experiment, engage in hands-on projects, and never stop expanding your knowledge. Staying at the forefront of your field means being adaptable and ready to embrace change.

Lighting the Future with MACCAM

Eric’s career reflects the values that drive MACCAM: expertise, innovation, and a genuine love of storytelling through light. As he leads MTS, productions know they’re in the hands of someone who not only understands the gear, but also the people and pressures behind every shoot.
“Troubleshooting is like detective work for machines,” Eric says. And for more than 35 years, he’s been solving mysteries that keep the cameras rolling.