D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration has announced a new on-the-job training initiative aimed at the city’s underserved residents.
The “Creative Economy Career Access Program: Stagehand Apprenticeship” provides access to a first of its kind program on technical stagehand training, mentorship – which can lead enrollees on a pathway to union membership.
“We are excited to develop and establish this innovative Apprenticeship Program as a new pathway to the middle class for our creative community,” said Angie Gates, director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment. “The program was developed as part of the 202Creates Initiative and is a testament to the Administration’s commitment to uplifting District residents and providing unique opportunities to establish sustainable careers in the creative economy.”
Two six-month training sessions will be included during the program’s inaugural year. Each session will provide four District residents an immersive paid, on-the-job training and apprenticeship opportunity. GLP DC, a professional staging and lighting services company that has served the city for more than 30 years, will provide program training.
District resident trainees will train at some of the most preeminent entertainment, special event, and sports venues in the District, including the Entertainment and Sports Arena, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the DC Armory and DAR Constitution Hall.
“GLP DC is excited to be a part of this exciting new program,” said its president, Gary Pair. “The team at GLP DC looks forward to offering training, guidance and mentorship to District of Columbia residents that aspire to build careers as stagehand technicians.”
