All technician's have been here at some point, wondering how they'll ever join the industry and work their way up the chain to reach the top. Here are some of our best ideas on how to get a head start!

The Tips...

Work Experience
Work Experience is the best way to give yourself an insight into the daily routine of Light, Sound and Rigging allowing you to decide whether it is the right path for you, most major companies will accept you for a weeks work experience especially if you show a keen interest!  This will also help you develop industry contacts that could help you down the line.

Start Working Small
Start work small at your local theatre or a pub doing one off events and build up a reputation as a reliable worker - don't be disappointed if you don't get noticed quickly!  Local drama clubs can also be good places to volunteer and gain experience.

Try Working as a Warehouse Tech
This can help you get noticed by larger companies who maybe looking for potential candidates.  It will also provide you with experience working with high end equipment which can be extremely beneficial later on as you will understand which fixtures are best for what.

Gather Small Qualifications
Employers don't necessarily want to see that you have a masters degree in lighting control with a minor in brain surgery, sometimes an extensive range of simple qualifications from Working at Heights to Lighting Console Training can show them you are experienced in the technical aspects of the work you will be under taking.  But bear in mind that the work you will be starting with will not be major international arena tours.

Build up an Online Portfolio
An online portfolio will allow potential employers the opportunity to see examples of your work in action as well as how the audience appreciated it - try and get testimonies as well even they're from some very small events.  Remember never to lie on you CV or website.  This is an industry of names and it is likely that your potential employer has the phone number of the person you claimed to work for.