Cage master: Zachary Blocker

Zachary Blocker in Studio A
Photo: Sadie Short

Zachary Blocker is a 2009 graduate of Gaylord College and is currently working for the college.

Blockers' major was journalism with an emphasis in broadcast and electronic media.  “I picked that major because a lot of the stuff just came easy for me, and I wanted to learn how to do more camera work.” Today he is putting many of the things that come natural to him to good use in an effort to better the success of the college, its many productions, and most importantly, to its students.

Blocker has many jobs and responsibilities at Gaylord. The opportunity came about while he was still a student. “The semester I was supposed to graduate, Scott called me and said, ‘Hey do you want a job?’ and I said ‘Sure, that sounds great.’” Blocker’s jobs include being the teaching assistant for the intro to video class, the facilities manager for the new wing and also the cage manager.

As exciting and as busy as his job might be Blocker does not intend to work at Gaylord forever. He ultimately aspires to work in film or television, but he is not picky about where he ends up. “Big or small, I don’t care where I start out at, just as long as I get the opportunity to do what I really enjoy; making stuff and doing creative projects.”

Blockers advice for current Gaylord students is to take advantage of the opportunities that are given to them and to get involved with the practicums and internships. Blocker believes getting to know your professors and advisors is also key. “There are no other journalism colleges in the country that have the assets (professors/advisors and facilities alike) that we do, so take advantage of it.”

The infamous cage dragon
Photo: Sadie Short

If you have ever been to the cage where students check out equipment, you probably have noticed the ‘Cage Dragon’ that is on the marker board. It always has a friendly or threatening message for students. So I had to ask, “What is the deal with the ‘Cage Dragon’?“ Blockers reply: “That is a Josh Shockley creation, all rights reserved. He just asks me if there is any messages in particular that I would like posted up there, other than that it is all him.”

Students of Gaylord College can look for Zack Blocker in the classroom and also working about the college. He has lots to offer to the students, as his experience as one is relevant and always helpful.