Technical Theater

The Technical Theater Certificate of Achievement will prepare individuals for entry-level positions as a stagehand working in stage, production, film, and television production as well as other special events. This program will prepare students to join in the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E) Union which influences better salaries especially in large cities such as San Francisco. Students will gain skills in theatrical lighting, set construction, video presentation setup, basic sound reinforcement, and wardrobe. Examples of entry-level employment options after successful completion of the Technical Theater Certificate of Achievement include carpenter, scenic painter, wardrobe dresser/ assistant, properties artisan, rigger, lighting technician, and event technician. Events and venues include casinos, concert, conferences, film, video, music videos, commercials, and multimedia projects. This program will also serve as a base for further education leading to careers such as Set Designer, Lighting Designer, Technical Director, and other theater-related jobs, including occupations represented by the I.A.T.S.E union.

Upon Completion of the program, students will be able to:

·      Demonstrate proficiency with typical professional lighting equipment and computer systems.

·      Understanding of the terminology and operations of the theater and production industries

·      Apply critical thinking skills to resolve challenges in the workplace

·      Function competently in entry-level stagehand business.

·      Work effectively with other in a creative team environment

This certificate fits the college mission by providing Career and Technical Education responsive to the community needs for entry-level entertainment workers. Within our curriculum, it is refocusing our Theater programs and Music program to be in alignment with modern workforce needs. 

The most recent enrollment data for existing, required courses at the college is listed in the following table (Source: Mendocino College Colleague System): Course Code 

There is no current data for TOP code 1006. Technical theater, in the Mendocino district since this is a new program.  Statewide for under 20 units for 2018-2019 is 128 and for 2019/2020 is 51 (I believe the drop was due to the pandemic) Annual completions are anticipated to be between 3-5.  It is anticipated that awards will increase with new program scope and direction.

https://datamart.cccco.edu/Outcomes/Program_Awards.aspx  

The goals and objectives of this Certificate of Achievement are to prepare students for entry-level stagehand positions. This program aligns with the CTE responsive to the community needs for entry-level entertainment workers.  This Certificate is a collaboration between the Theater and Music departments at Mendocino College and working theater/entertainment professionals.  The appropriate vocational TOP Codes are: 

·       1006.00 – Technical Theater 

Through the course of a year students will take a variety of classes that will help them prepare for entry level work as stagehands.  Additionally they will complete two levels of production crew giving them actual experience working in the entertainment industry.  Every student must achieve 75% or higher for completion.