Advanced - Arena Rigging Class - Recognized by ETCP - ESTA
CM-et Certification

HOUSTON, TX - July 5~8, 2010 - Upstage Center and LD Systems hosted an Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) focused on entertainment rigging at LD Systems' Houston facility. The classes lasting over a 4 day period were headed up by renowned entertainment rigger 'Rocky Paulson' whom also is well know as the founder and former owner of Stage Rigging. Between Upstage Center & LD Systems aprox 30 technicians & and seasoned regional riggers attended the classes.

The Entertainment Technician Certification Program is an industry-wide program that has brought together an unprecedented group of industry organizations, businesses and individuals to create a program of rigorous assessments for professional technicians. ETCP focuses on disciplines that directly affect the health and safety of crews, performers, and audiences. Areas of certification through ETCP include the following areas: Rigger – Arena, Rigger – Theater, and Entertainment Electrician. Some of the attendees will go on to take the ETCP - ESTA accredited rigging examination, but with out a doubt these classes better informed all that attended and will translate to a much safer work place in our region. Those who go on to pass this rigorous test will become ETCP Certified Riggers - and will be recognized by other professionals as the industry's best.

Also, during the summer months LD Systems dispatched two senior staff members, Jim Brace & Richard Evans, to attend a two day CM-et Certification School held in Dallas Texas. This two day class is a recognized training course which consists of the design and operation of hoists, maintenance needs, inspection requirements and troubleshooting. All achieved through hands-on tear down, inspection and reassembly of motors. Now with the successful completion of this course both staff members will carry a five year motor technician certification card and are now sanctioned by CM to generate motor certificates. Below is a sample.

Going forward LD Systems branches in Houston & San Antonio will be deploying annually certified CM Hoists thus raising the bar of rigging hardware safety & overall knowledge on all LD Systems events.