Ep 36: ITV Support Engineer Mirusha Jegatheeswaran – Keeping TV on Air and Ignoring Gatekeepers

In this episode of TV Makers, Ashley Golder speaks to Mirusha Jegatheeswaran, an ITV Support Engineer working across high-output television at ITV Studios.Mirusha’s role sits at the heart of broadcast production – keeping studios, systems and post-production running smoothly so shows stay on air. But her route into television wasn’t a traditional one. She entered the industry with zero broadcast experience, stepped into one of the most male-dominated technical roles in TV, and built her career by learning on the job while refusing to let gatekeeping slow her down.Since recording this episode, Mirusha has won a Rise Award 2025 in the Influencer category, recognising her commitment to sharing knowledge, supporting others, and helping open up access to technical roles in the industry. She has also been nominated for further industry awards to be announced later this year! Go Mirusha! In this conversation, Mirusha breaks down what a support engineer actually does day to day, the realities of being responsible for keeping high-output shows on air, and why knowledge-sharing matters more than ever in television.In this episode, we cover:What a Support Engineer really does in TVKeeping high-output shows broadcasting behind the scenesThe pressure of live and near-live technical environmentsEntering television with no broadcast experienceGatekeeping, confidence, and knowledge sharingWorking in a male-dominated technical roleWhy collaboration matters behind the scenesWe couldn’t fit everything into our recording time but Mirusha would also like to add: “Being part of the Rise Women in Broadcast Mentoring Programme in 2021 has been especially valuable as someone new to the TV and media industry with no prior experience. It has given me structured guidance, confidence, and insight into industry practices, while also helping me build a supportive network of women who work in the sector. This safe circle has made me feel welcomed and wanted, while providing role models and connections that encourage my growth and help me establish a strong foundation for my career in broadcasting. The programme has also helped me attend industry events till this day, meet new people, and continue to build my LinkedIn profile, strengthening my visibility and opportunities within the industry."Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Enjoying the series? Don't underestimate the power of the share, rate, and subscribe bit! It really helps! Whether you’re watching on YouTube or listening on your favourite podcast app, drop us a comment, or connect with us on Instagram at @tvmakerspodGot a question or guest suggestion? Email us at [email protected] you to our Sponsors:RIMMS- https://www.rimms.tv The Kit House - https://www.kithouserental.co.ukDirected By Good - https://www.directedbygood.comEdited By Ben SealRecorded by Ashley Golder - https://ashleygolder.tv/Instagram @tvmakerspod Email: [email protected] by Benjamin Leon  - Instagram: @benleondrawsWebsite:  www.benleondraws.com