Joe Short has been a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) for more than three decades. He joined IATSE Local 209 in 1991 and Local 27 in 1992.

Joe was elected to the Executive Board of IATSE Local 27 in 1997 and has served as President of the Local since 2009. In addition to his leadership responsibilities within Local 27, Joe served as an IATSE Special Representative from 2005-2025. In 2025, he became an IATSE Representative, working in the Stagecraft Department, and in 2026 was appointed by President Loeb as Assistant Department Director, Stagecraft.

From 2000 to 2025, Joe served as Stage Manager of The Cleveland Orchestra, overseeing stage operations for one of the world’s leading orchestras. During his 25-year tenure, he participated in 22 international tours and more than 50 national tours.

As a fourth-generation IATSE stagehand from Local 27 in Cleveland, Ohio, he is proud to carry forward a family tradition of dedication to the craft, union solidarity, and service to his fellow workers.