New York, NY– IATSE – The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employes, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada has accepted a permanent seat on ESTA’s new Certification Council. The Certification Council is the governing body which will manage the development and implementation of a new industry-wide certification program for entertainment technology technicians. The key areas of electrical skills and rigging skills have been identified for initial development in the ESTA Personnel Certification Program.

President Thomas C. Short of the IATSE has appointed Anthony DePaulo, Eleventh Vice President of the General Executive Board and Business Agent of Local One, and Brian Lawlor, Co-Director of the Stagecraft Division as their representatives to the Council.

“Both Mr. DePaulo and Mr. Lawlor have first hand experience and knowledge of those skills that will be certified in this program. Knowing that the IA will have a guiding impact on this certification program will continue to assure that our members will remain the most highly skilled in the business while working in a well thought out, safe work environment,” commented President Short.

ESTA President Mike Wood commented, “It is essential for the success of this program that it has strong representation from the labor unions and we are delighted that IATSE has accepted this leading role on the Certification Council. Their input and support will be invaluable.”

The ESTA Certification Council will represent the diversity of the industry. Members will include key leaders in entertainment business, labor, facilities, associations, and academia. ESTA is in the process of extending invitations for Certification Council membership.