Author Topic: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer  (Read 3507 times)

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klgreene

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Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« on: Jun 05, 2013, 05:41 pm »
I am the full time stage manager/production coordinator for a ballet company, and my boss has offered me the opportunity to take continuing education classes or get certifications in our down time during the summer. There are no specifics as to what these classes/certifications need to be, so I was wondering if anyone has suggestions on something interesting/useful to pursue for stage managers. I am already first aid and CPR certified. All ideas are welcome, thanks!

PSMKay

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #1 on: Jun 05, 2013, 09:55 pm »
Do you tour at all? If so, CDL (large vehicle driver license) might be a good route. Beyond that? Music classes if you don't read music. AED cert to go with first aid & cpr.

lsears

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #2 on: Jun 06, 2013, 12:48 am »
I recommend looking at local schools with good theater programs to see if you are interested in any of there summer classes.  As a faculty member at a university I am frequently jealous of classes my students get to take!  Just pursuing the course list may give you some new ideas.

ejsmith3130

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #3 on: Jun 06, 2013, 12:54 am »
Something like this may not be available where you are at, but Villanova University offers a 'certificate in non profit managment' that is really interesting. You learn how non profits run, raise money and function as a business. Perhaps if you had an interest in pursuing a career past stage managment at some point this could be useful. Learning the business side of things could prove beneficial to your communication with your current company as well.

Bwoodbury

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #4 on: Jun 06, 2013, 01:13 am »
Also, first aid lasts a long time, but AED/CPR expires every year in most places. Might be worth it to re-cert early if it means you can do it for free.

ScooterSM

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #5 on: Jun 06, 2013, 09:27 am »
Any foreign language would be great, or more industry related certs like pyro or basic rigging.

It is excellent that your employer is willing to do this!
“I've never been paid a lot, but the theatre has kept me, and for that I shall be eternally grateful.” Tony Church

Melissitchka

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Re: Continuing Education/Certifications through Employer
« Reply #6 on: Jun 10, 2013, 01:00 am »
Some other ideas -

Psychology classes? Especially behavioral psych...
Music theory
Shakespeare
Dance classes
MA School
VariLite School
EMT Training
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