VANCOUVER, B.C., — The IATSE and InfoComm have partnered to offer a certification preparation program for IA members, who now have access to state of the art training and certification in the growing audiovisual industry.
The most recent Certified Technology Specialist examination prep course was held in Vancouver, B.C., from July 28 – 30. InfoComm instructor Andrea LaJeune led the course, while IATSE Safety and Training Coordinator Kent Jorgensen gave input throughout on safety and union-specific situations. Also in attendance at various times during the three-day training were International Representative Julia Neville, IATSE CLC Delegate Kelly Moon, and Dusty Kelly of Local 891.
Twenty-two IATSE members representing Locals 15 (Seattle), 16 (San Francisco), 118 (Vancouver), 471 (Ottawa), 600 (US Cinematographers), 669 (Canada Cinematographers), 675 (Oregon), and 891(Vancouver) attended the course. Jorgensen reports that the students were engaged in the InfoComm course, asking questions and participating in all of the group sessions.
“It is great to know that the members are taking advantage of this opportunity to acquire new skills and refine ones they already have,” said IATSE Director of Education and Training Patricia White. “The IATSE Education and Training Department is committed to working to be sure that IATSE members have the most up-to-date skills possible, and are familiar with the latest technology. This partnership with InfoComm is a big step in that direction.”
InfoComm is the leading non-profit trade association dedicated to serving the professional audiovisual communications industry worldwide. The partnership between the IATSE and InfoComm recognizes that InfoComm-trained technicians are the standard for excellence in the AV industry. The next CTS prep course will be held in Philadelphia, PA, September 24-26, and future trainings are also planned in Miami and Chicago.