Tod acknowledges that the two years he spent at the college made an impact on him that continues to this day, which is why he’ll always be proud to be an Alfred State Pioneer.
If you like to watch movies, chances are you’ve experienced Tod Maitland’s work.
Throughout his career as a sound engineer, Tod has been involved with more than 100 films, ranging from “I Am Legend,” to “Seabiscuit,” to “Joker.” He also has four Academy Award nominations in the “Best Sound” category to his credit.
Before he began counting Will Smith, Joaquin Phoenix, and other A-list stars as co-workers, however, Tod was a student at Alfred State. He acknowledges that the two years he spent at the college made an impact on him that continues to this day, which is why he’ll always be proud to be an Alfred State Pioneer.
A native of Long Island, Tod initially wanted to pursue a career in marine biology. After seeing his father, Dennis Maitland, at work, however, Tod decided to follow in his dad’s footsteps and become a sound professional in the movie industry.
In 1975, Tod enrolled in Alfred State’s audio visual technology program, which he says helped him to understand the details of his business.
Immediately upon graduating in 1977, Tod began working in the film industry with his father. After three films, Dennis suggested that his son work with other sound professionals in order to see how they work. As a sound engineer, Tod wound up developing relationships with some of the biggest stars and directors in Hollywood.
As for his favorite movies that he’s worked on, Tod has a long list that includes “Tootsie,” “The Greatest Showman,” and four Oliver Stone films that he considers some of the most influential of his career: “Talk Radio,” “Born on the Fourth of July,” “The Doors,” and “JFK.” A more recent film that Tod worked on that has been both challenging and rewarding is Steven Spielberg’s remake of “West Side Story.”
In addition to the work he does on set, Tod also owns his own sound company called “New Deal Inc.” and teaches sound classes at New York University (NYU). Additionally, Tod worked with his sister, Kim, and two brothers, Dennis Maitland Jr. and Dean, who have both passed away. Tod is now helping to guide his nephew, Terence McCormack Maitland, who also works on sound for films.
Today, Tod lives in New York City and upstate near Delhi with his wife, Sarah. They are the parents of four children, Emma, Matthew, Emma (his stepdaughter), and Rowan.
No matter where he lives or where his life and career have taken him over the years, however, Tod still thinks often about the two years he spent at Alfred State, especially when speaking with the lifelong friends he made there.
“Some of my fondest memories in life are from Alfred,” he said.
The next time you watch one of the films Tod has worked on, pay extra attention to how it sounds. Close your eyes for an instant, listen closely, and you’ll be sure to appreciate the incredible work of an Alfred State Pioneer. And wait for the credits!