At its recent meeting, the General Executive Board of International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) voted to contribute $75,000 to the development of the new Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP).
IATSE’s generous donation further demonstrates their significant commitment to safety in the entertainment industry. IATSE was formed more than a century ago and is the largest labor union in the entertainment and related industries. To show their commitment to ETCP, IATSE has appointed Anthony DePaulo 11th International Vice President, Brian Lawlor 13th International Vice President & Division Director of Stagecraft, and Tim Wade Chair of the IATSE Labor/Management Safety Committee to serve on the Certification Council.
The ETCP Fundraising Campaign is seeking funds for the development stage of the Program which is expected to become self supporting once the initial development phase is complete. The target for the campaign is $750,000 and IATSE's contribution brings the total pledges received to date to $312,495. "We are very pleased that the IATSE has recognized the significance of this program with their very generous contribution," says Tim Hansen, chair of the Certification Council. "This donation will allow the development of the program to quickly advance toward our goal of certifying Entertainment Technicians."
ETCP will set standards for safer working practices and reduce workplace risk in all entertainment venues. Industry experts will develop rigorous assessments, conduct examinations and award credentials to qualified entertainment technicians. ETCP will focus on disciplines that directly affect the health and safety of performers, crews and audiences. For more information visit www.etcp.esta.orgwww.etcp.esta.org