Top 10 Stage Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a stage technician in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency, professionalism and expertise. Certifications can give employers confidence that the technician has the necessary skills to do the job well. They also show potential employers that the technician is knowledgeable about industry standards and practices, which can be beneficial when applying for jobs. Additionally, certifications are often required for certain positions or roles, so having them can help a technician stand out from other applicants. Finally, certifications may provide access to higher-paying jobs or more desirable roles within an organization.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Stage Technicians and explains how they can help to enhance a stage technician's career.

What are Stage Technician Certifications?

Stage technician certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful stage technicians. This certification program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the technical aspects of putting on a show, from set design and lighting to sound engineering and rigging. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field, making them more attractive for potential employers.

Completing a stage technician certification program can give individuals a competitive edge when applying for jobs, as they will have the necessary skills and qualifications to work in this specialized field. The courses included in these programs cover topics such as building sets, using lights and sound equipment, rigging techniques, electrical engineering concepts, safety protocols, and more. Being certified also allows individuals to network with other professionals in the industry and stay up-to-date on the latest technologies used in stage production.

Having a stage technician certification can open up many career opportunities for individuals interested in working behind the scenes of theater or film productions. It can also help those already working in this field advance their careers by demonstrating their expertise and commitment to excellence.

Pro Tip: If you're interested in becoming a stage technician, make sure to check with local industry organizations to see if they offer any certification programs. This can help you gain the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a professional stage technician.

Related: What does a Stage Technician do?

Top 10 Stage Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Stage Technicians today.

1. Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT)

Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT) is a professional certification that is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of audio visual technicians. It is offered by the InfoComm International, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the audiovisual industry.

The CAVT certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as installation, system design, troubleshooting, and maintenance of audiovisual systems. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in two hours.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the exam online. After registering, they must pay a fee of $250 USD to take the exam. The fee covers the cost of the exam itself as well as any study materials or other resources needed to prepare for it.

Once registered and paid, applicants can then schedule their exams at one of InfoComm’s testing centers located around the world. After taking and passing the exam, they will receive their official CAVT certification card in the mail within four weeks.

Overall, it typically takes about four weeks from start to finish (registration to receiving your certification card) to become a Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT).

2. Certified Technical Production Manager (CTPM)

Certified Technical Production Manager (CTPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who are responsible for managing technical production operations. The CTPM certification is offered by the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA).

To obtain the CTPM certification, applicants must successfully pass a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as safety, rigging, lighting, audio, video, staging, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in technical production management or related fields.

The cost of the CTPM certification exam varies depending on whether you are an ESTA member or non-member. For ESTA members, the cost is $400 USD; for non-members, it is $600 USD.

3. Certified Lighting Technician (CLT)

A Certified Lighting Technician (CLT) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot lighting systems. The CLT certification is offered by the National Council on Qualifications for Lighting Professionals (NCQLP). To become a CLT, an individual must pass an exam administered by the NCQLP. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as electrical safety, lighting design principles, and installation techniques.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any of the NCQLP's approved testing centers. The cost of the exam is $250 USD plus applicable taxes. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their CLT certificate and are eligible to use the title "Certified Lighting Technician" or "CLT".

4. Certified Stagehand (CSH)

Certified Stagehand (CSH) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides a comprehensive knowledge base of rigging, lighting, sound, and other technical aspects of the entertainment industry. It is designed to give stagehands the necessary skills to work in any type of venue. The certification process includes a written test and practical assessment.

The CSH program typically takes two to three months to complete. It includes both online study and hands-on training. During the course, students will learn about safety protocols, rigging techniques, electrical systems, audio/visual systems, and more.

To get certified as a CSH, you must first complete an application form and submit it with proof of your experience in the entertainment industry. You will then be required to take a written test covering topics such as rigging safety protocols, electrical systems, audio/visual systems, and more. After passing the written test, you will need to pass a practical assessment that covers all areas taught in the course.

The cost for the CSH certification varies depending on where you take it from but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

5. Certified Sound Engineer (CSE)

Certified Sound Engineer (CSE) is a professional certification program offered by the Audio Engineering Society (AES). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful sound engineer.

To earn the CSE, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as acoustics, signal processing, audio systems design, and digital audio workstations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass.

The CSE program typically takes around two years to complete. During this time, applicants must take classes in sound engineering, attend workshops and seminars, and complete an internship or apprenticeship. They must also pass the CSE exam before they can receive their certification.

The cost of the CSE program varies depending on where you take it and what type of courses you choose to take. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$2000 USD for the entire program.

6. Certified Rigging Technician (CRT)

A Certified Rigging Technician (CRT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to safely and effectively perform rigging operations. Rigging technicians are responsible for the safe installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of rigging equipment used in construction, industrial, and entertainment settings.

To become a Certified Rigging Technician (CRT), you must complete an approved training program through a qualified training provider. The length of the program varies depending on the type of rigging being performed. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from two days to three weeks to complete the coursework required for certification.

In order to receive your CRT certification, you must pass both a written exam and a practical skills test administered by an accredited testing organization. The cost of the exam varies depending on the testing organization but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with attending the training program itself.

7. Certified Video Technician (CVT)

Certified Video Technician (CVT) is a certification program offered by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). The CVT program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the field of video engineering.

The CVT program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as video signal formats, digital video production, and audio/video synchronization. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field of video engineering.

In order to apply for the CVT certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume, portfolio, and applicable fees. The fee for the exam is $250 USD and there may be additional fees associated with submitting a portfolio or other materials.

Once an applicant has passed the exam and submitted all necessary materials, they will receive their Certified Video Technician certificate from SMPTE within four weeks. This certificate is valid for three years from the date it was issued and can be renewed every three years by passing another exam or providing evidence of continuing education courses taken during that time period.

8. Certified Projectionist (CPJ)

Certified Projectionist (CPJ) is a certification program offered by the International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA). It is designed to provide professional recognition for individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of motion picture projection systems. The CPJ program consists of two components: an online course and an in-person exam.

The online course covers topics such as safety, projection system components, basic projector operations, film handling, digital cinema operations, and troubleshooting. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the course, candidates must pass an in-person exam administered by an ICTA-certified proctor. The exam consists of both written questions and hands-on demonstrations of projector operation.

The cost for the CPJ program is $250 USD for members of ICTA or $300 USD for non-members. This includes access to the online course and one attempt at the in-person exam. Additional attempts at the exam can be purchased separately for $50 USD each.

9. Certified Digital Media Technician (CDMT)

Certified Digital Media Technician (CDMT) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the digital media industry. The certification is offered by the Digital Media Training Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality training and certification for those working in digital media.

The CDMT certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of digital media production, post-production, audio engineering, video editing, graphic design, web development, animation, and other related fields. It requires passing an exam that covers topics such as digital asset management, workflow optimization, project management, and more.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the coursework and prepare for the exam. The cost of the certification varies depending on which modules you choose to take but can range from $1,500-$2,500 USD. To get certified you must first register with DMT Council online and then complete all required coursework. Once you have completed your coursework you will be eligible to sit for the exam. Upon passing you will receive your CDMT certificate from DMT Council.

10. Certified Live Event Technician (CLET)

Certified Live Event Technician (CLET) is a certification program offered by the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA). It is designed to provide professionals in the live events industry with an internationally recognized standard of excellence.

The CLET program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as safety, rigging, audio, lighting, video and staging. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in each of these areas.

The entire process takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Candidates must register for the program online through PLASA’s website and pay a fee of £250 (approximately $330 USD). Upon successful completion of the program, candidates receive a certificate that is valid for three years.

Do You Really Need a Stage Technician Certificate?

When it comes to becoming a successful stage technician, having a certificate is not always necessary. Depending on the position you are seeking, some employers may require certifications in order to be considered for the job. Additionally, having a certificate may also give you an edge over other applicants who do not possess one.

For those looking to get into the field of stage technician, there are several paths available to them. One option is to attend a technical school or college that offers courses related to theatre and stage production. These classes often cover topics such as sound engineering, lighting design, set construction and rigging, as well as other aspects of production. By taking these classes and earning a certificate from an accredited institution, you can demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field.

Another way to gain experience in the field is through internships or apprenticeships with established theatre companies or production companies. This allows you to learn valuable skills from experienced professionals in the industry while gaining real-world experience in the process. This type of hands-on experience can be even more valuable than any certificate when it comes time for employers to make hiring decisions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a stage technician certificate depends on your individual circumstance and goals. For those just starting out in the field, having a certification can help open doors and provide employers with assurance that you have what it takes to succeed in the role they are offering. However, if you already have significant experience working as a stage technician or have done internships in the field then having a certification may not be necessary for certain positions.

Related: Stage Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Stage Technician Certifications

1. What certifications are available for stage technicians?

Answer: The most common certifications available for stage technicians include the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) Level 1 and 2 Certificates, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Certificate in Audio/Video Technology and Production, and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) Certified Technician Program.

2. What is required to become a certified stage technician?

Answer: To become a certified stage technician, you must complete a training program or course related to the certification you are seeking. This may require passing an exam or completing a hands-on project. You may also need to have experience working as a stage technician in order to be eligible for some certifications.

3. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the specific certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, certifications can take anywhere from weeks to several months depending on the level of training required.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified stage technician?

Answer: Yes, some certifications may require that you have previous experience working as a stage technician or that you pass an exam before becoming certified. It is important to check with the organization offering the certification for more information about their requirements.

5. What benefits do I gain from becoming a certified stage technician?

Answer: Becoming a certified stage technician can offer many benefits, such as increased job opportunities, higher pay rates, and more respect from employers and peers in your field. Additionally, having certification can make it easier to find work in other areas of production or even outside of production altogether!