The training was carried out by ETC's Luke Delwiche and saw students undertake responsibilities including redesigning, upgrading and reinstalling the rig in the 'theatre style' training room - known as The Playhouse at Gypsy Corner - where staff, dealers and distributors learn about the workings of ETC lighting products. The 150W HID lamps were replaced with more environmentally friendly 70W HID lamps and the students serviced all the luminaires on the rig with help from Martin Professional. In addition, they also completed training on the Eos, Ion, Congo and SmartFade lighting control desks.
Delwiche says: "This is the first time we've offered a student training programme like this in the UK. Since we moved to this building in 2006, we've been continually adding lights to the rig; as a result, everything needed checking and servicing. So it's something both the students and ETC have benefited from."
The upgrade came as a result of ETC enhancing its training programmes - with regular sessions on a weekly basis. 10 Martin MAC 250s were added to the rig to make the training more comprehensive. Delwiche continues: "We didn't just want ETC lights in the rig as this doesn't give trainees a realistic picture. We wanted a more complete rig, but we also want to be more sustainable - although we have increased the number of luminaires, there is more discharge and less tungsten. It's great to collaborate with Martin Professional - they have loaned us their lights and their expertise, and obviously it is good for the students to get to know their products as well as ETC's."
Over the years, ETC has developed many initiatives to enthuse and support students including its popular LDI Student Sponsorship programme. ETC works closely with many art colleges such as the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), Rose Bruford College and The Brit School.
(Jim Evans)
