A robust technical artist workforce is integral to the region’s art organizations. PSW recognizes that organizations are often too small to engage full-time technical artists, but the caliber of their programming often requires advanced expertise and craftsmanship.
Too often young, talented individuals do not enter the industry, or leave the industry quickly, because they do not know what work exists, or because it involves training that is too expensive or long, while not making a living wage.
The Technical Artist Workforce Development Program
bridges that gap in a number of ways:
PSW offers free, public skill-broadening training, designed to give tangible skills that are useful in and out of the industry.
These free one-day technical and skills workshops, ranging from carpentry and paint to financial literacy and narcan administration. Taught by independent technicians with expertise in carpentry, electrics, and scenic painting, these workshops not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to a healthier and more diverse pool of artists and technicians in our community. Some workshop attendees have been hired as part-time employees. See our current workshop offerings here!
PSW is working to expand and diversify the pipeline without necessitating an expensive degree, through a series of field trips, after school programs, internship, and apprenticeships.
We offer free field trips to schools, providing tours and hands-on activities related to art and scenic fabrication. PSW helps high school students explore careers in theater and related fields through site visits, professional networking, and hands-on training. PSW also provides internships in collaboration with educational partners, offering tailored lessons and exposure to different projects. Additionally, PSW partners with local schools, to teach scenic design and fabrication on location, aiming to guide students toward higher education.
PSW centralizes the work of many arts organizations to provide reliable work with competitive wages and equitable employment policies in a well-resourced environment. This includes paid time off from the first hour worked, flexible hours, as well as sick leave, and insurance, and retirement plans for full-time and long-term employees.