Entertainment Trades
Entertainment skilled trades refer to careers that involve technical skills and hands-on work in the entertainment industry. These trades are essential for creating and maintaining the technical aspects of productions, such as film, television, live performances, and events.
Types of Careers
Some common entertainment skilled trades include:
- Entertainment Industry Power Technicians: They handle power distribution systems, lighting, and portable power supplies.
- Sound Technicians: They manage audio equipment and ensure high-quality sound production.
- Lighting Technicians: They design and install lighting systems for various productions.
- Stagehands: They assist with setting up and dismantling stages and equipment.
- Special Effects Technicians: They create visual and practical effects for film and live performances.
Qualifications
Qualifications for these careers typically involve a combination of formal education and hands-on training. Many positions require completion of an apprenticeship program, which includes both on-the-job training and classroom instruction. For example, becoming an Entertainment Industry Power Technician involves around 5,000 hours of training, including 4,520 hours of on-the-job work and 480 hours of in-school training.
Work Environment
The work environment in entertainment skilled trades can be dynamic and fast-paced. Technicians often work long hours, sometimes overnight, and may need to travel frequently for different productions. The environment can be physically demanding, requiring good ergonomics and safety practices to prevent injuries.
Growth Prospects
The entertainment industry is continually evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. This creates opportunities for skilled trades professionals to advance their careers by learning new skills and adapting to industry changes. As the industry grows, the demand for skilled technicians is expected to increase, providing good prospects for career advancement.
Compensation
Compensation in entertainment skilled trades varies depending on the specific trade, experience, and location. For example, the national average salary for an Entertainment Industry Power Technician is around $72,898 per year. Other positions, such as sound technicians and lighting technicians, may have similar salary ranges, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and specialization.
