Information Request :: Industry Electricians

Hi Everyone!

I am in the processing of searching for a licensed Electrician that primarily does work in the Entertainment industry. I am thinking about doing an apprenticeship as an Electrician, but would prefer not to only work on domestic jobs.

I have a strong interest in the industry, and have been involved in Lighting, Sound, AV, General Stage Management, Rigging & Animatronics. Although I am still currently completing my VCE in Melbourne, I have completed several short courses including my CIII in Entertainment (Lighting). I have toured around Australia on several occasions, as well as overseas (specifically, the UK).

Any information you can provide me would be a fantastic asset.

Thank you!

Best Regards, Chris Hocking.

I canÂ’t give you any Electrical Contractors names in Melbourne. However may I suggest that you contact a few Commercial Theatre Companies such as the Â‘Mariner GroupÂ’, who own about 6 theatres there. However most do not employ Licensed electricians as such at best only Restricted or Limited licences Techies - Although I would suggest this is also a myth in the East as most are not licensed in anyway. When they need a specialist electrical installations, they deal with local contractors available from the phone directory otherwise the techies try & fix it. This happens throughout the Industry -as itÂ’s cheaper to have pick it ups do it & hope for the best.
You might be better off gaining a Limited or Restricted License, supervised under a licensed electrician & getting a techies job in the Industry - This involves about 1 year of supervision & 40 hours at a ProviderÂ’s course which will cost for the course - most TAFE Colleges are providers. However the best bet is to go to your local Electrical Supply & license Authority & they will give you the information. These licenceÂ’s are part of a National Licence System - otherwise gain an apprenticeship to get a full open licence. I think it would be better to find out the local information as it varies drastically from state to state. Otherwise keep slogging & ring everyone in the Yellow pages Theatre section on lighting.
In the meantime get along to your local community theatre group & help out with Lighting & you will gain some expertise & enjoyment. I know I count on one hand the total number of licensed Electricians working in industry through out this state & the numbers would be much the same else where!
Chookas
Best of luck Chris

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