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How to Get Started in Events: Venue Technician, Production, Lighting and More

By 10th January 2025Blog, Events
Venue Technician at event.

The events and venues industry in the UK has a diverse range of career opportunities across different sectors. Whether you’re interested in working behind the scenes to create stunning live events or taking a technical role to ensure everything runs smoothly, the possibilities are endless. The demand for skilled professionals in areas like production management, sound engineering and lighting design is growing, and this industry offers a path to a rewarding, dynamic career.

If you’re eager to break into the events and venues industry, understanding the key roles, responsibilities, and skills required for success is key. This guide will walk you through some of the most popular careers within the industry, including venue technicians, broadcast engineers, lighting engineers, production managers, electricians, and sound technicians and engineers. We’ll also explain how studying the T-Level in Events and Venues Technician at Big Creative Education (BCE) can give you the practical experience and industry-relevant training you need to succeed in this fast-paced and exciting field.

Why Choose a Career in the Events Industry?

The events industry in the UK is one of the largest and fastest-growing sectors, contributing billions to the economy every year. It encompasses everything from live concerts and theatre performances to corporate conferences, festivals, and large-scale sporting events.

The Importance of the Events Industry

  • Size and Value: The UK events industry is valued at over £39.1billion annually, supporting thousands of businesses and generating substantial employment opportunities across the country.
  • Diverse Career Opportunities: From technical roles like lighting engineers to managerial positions such as production and event managers, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals in all areas.
  • Global Reach: The UK is home to some of the world’s biggest events, with venues and festivals attracting international talent, tourists, and audiences.

With this rapid growth, the demand for qualified professionals continues to rise. If you have a passion for event production, a keen interest in technology, or a creative spark, the events industry could be the perfect fit for you.

Key Career Paths in Events and Venues

Now let’s explore some of the key events career paths in the events and venues industry. Each of these roles requires specific skills, training, and experience, and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of unforgettable events.

1. Venue Technician

Venue technicians are responsible for maintaining and operating technical equipment in a range of event venues, such as theatres, arenas, and concert halls. This includes overseeing the installation and setup of lighting, sound, video equipment, and stage setups.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Set up and test technical equipment before and during events.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues to ensure smooth operations.
  • Work closely with other technical staff and event organisers to meet specific event requirements.
  • Adhering to risk assessments and health and safety policy.

Skills Needed:

  • Excellent technical skills with a strong understanding of electrical systems, sound, lighting, and video equipment.
  • Problem-solving abilities to quickly resolve technical issues.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.

How BCE Prepares You: BCE’s Events and Venues Technician T-Level course provides students with a strong foundation in the technical aspects of venue operations, from lighting and sound to video systems and stage equipment. Through practical training in real-world settings, you’ll gain the skills needed to become a competent and reliable venue technician.

2. Broadcast Engineer

Broadcast engineers manage the technical side of broadcasting for live events, ensuring that everything is captured and transmitted for viewers. They oversee the cameras, audio equipment, and streaming platforms, playing a crucial role in live event coverage.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate broadcast equipment, including cameras, microphones, and mixing consoles.
  • Coordinate the broadcasting team to ensure high-quality live transmissions.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues during live broadcasts.

Skills Needed:

  • In-depth knowledge of broadcast technology and equipment.
  • Technical troubleshooting skills and quick thinking under pressure.
  • Strong attention to detail to ensure flawless transmissions.

How BCE Prepares You: BCE’s course includes modules that cover the technical aspects of live event production, including broadcast equipment and streaming platforms. You will also have access to professional-grade equipment to help you develop the necessary skills to work as a broadcast engineer.

3. Production Manager

Production managers are the backbone of event logistics, overseeing all aspects of event production from the initial planning stages through to the final execution. They are responsible for ensuring that everything runs according to schedule and within budget.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plan, coordinate, and manage all technical elements of the production process.
  • Supervise staff, crew members and contractors involved in the event.
  • Liaise with clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.

Skills Needed:

  • Strong organisational and leadership skills.
  • Knowledge of event planning and project management.
  • Ability to multitask and stay calm under pressure.

How BCE Prepares You: BCE’s T-Level course provides valuable exposure to the planning and execution of large-scale events. With a focus on project management and practical training, students learn how to effectively manage resources and teams to produce successful events.

4. Electrician

Electricians in the events industry are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems, including lighting rigs, power distribution, and other equipment vital for events.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Install electrical systems for live events and venues.
  • Ensure electrical safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Work with lighting engineers and production teams to meet event requirements.

Skills Needed:

  • Expertise in electrical systems and installations.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations and codes.
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

How BCE Prepares You: As part of the T-Level course, BCE students gain hands-on experience working with electrical systems commonly used in event venues. The practical training prepares students for a wide range of roles in the electrical and technical sectors of event production.

5. Lighting Engineer

Lighting engineers design, set up, and operate lighting systems for events. They work closely with production teams to create the desired lighting effects and ensure they align with the artistic vision of the event.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and programme lighting setups for live events.
  • Operate and monitor lighting equipment during events.
  • Ensure lighting systems are safely installed and maintained.

Skills Needed:

  • Technical knowledge of lighting equipment and software.
  • Creative vision to design lighting effects that enhance the event experience.
  • Attention to detail and the ability to work to tight deadlines.

How BCE Prepares You: BCE’s course includes practical training on lighting design and operation, giving you the technical expertise and creativity needed to thrive as a lighting engineer. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard lighting technology.

6. Events Sound Engineer

Sound engineers in the events industry are responsible for managing audio equipment, ensuring that sound is clear and balanced throughout an event. They are vital in live events such as concerts, theatre performances, other live performances ,and corporate conferences.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Set up, test, and operate sound equipment for live events.
  • Balance audio levels and adjust sound to suit the venue and event.
  • Work with artists, performers, and production teams to meet specific sound requirements.

Skills Needed:

  • Expertise in sound systems and audio mixing.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to address sound-related issues.
  • Attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure.

How BCE Prepares You: BCE’s T-Level course offers training in sound engineering, from setting up audio equipment to mixing sound during events. With access to professional sound systems and equipment, you’ll gain valuable practical skills for a career as a sound engineer.

event management

Skills and Qualifications Needed for Events Industry Jobs

Each of the roles outlined above requires specific skills and qualifications. However, there are common skills that can be applied across various roles in the events industry:

Core Skills Required:

  • Technical Expertise: A deep understanding of equipment such as lighting rigs, sound systems, and video setups is essential for many technical roles.
  • Project Management: The ability to plan, coordinate, and manage various aspects of event production, including budget and resources, is a crucial skill.
  • Communication: Whether you’re working with a team or liaising with clients and suppliers, clear and effective communication is key to success.
  • Creativity: Many roles, such as lighting engineers, creative venue technician and production managers, require creativity and the ability to design solutions that enhance the audience experience.

How BCE’s T-Level Course Prepares You:

The T-Level in Events and Venues Technician at BCE focuses on providing industry-relevant training in all of these areas. The course includes practical modules and real-world experience to ensure students are equipped with the skills required for roles such as venue technician, sound engineer, lighting engineer, and more. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard technology, BCE students gain hands-on experience that sets them up for success in the events sector.

How BCE’s Events and Venues Technician T-Level Course Prepares You for These Careers

College courses like BCE’s T-Level in Events and Venues Technician offers a comprehensive, practical curriculum designed to prepare students for a wide range of roles in the events industry. The course covers:

  • Technical Skills: Learn to set up and operate technical systems such as lighting, sound, and video equipment.
  • Production Management: Gain experience in managing the logistics and coordination of events, from small gigs to large festivals.
  • Industry-Standard Equipment: Students have access to professional-grade equipment, providing them with the hands-on experience needed to succeed in their careers.
  • Professional Development: With a focus on employability, BCE offers guidance on career pathways, networking opportunities, and internships with industry partners.