Tech25 believes that a strong, sustainable arts and culture community that makes talent want to stay here – and draws it from outside our region – means investing in training that leads to living wage careers in creativity-related industries. 

They provide youth and adults with education, vocational and certification programs in the entertainment technology field. The impact is substantial – each year more than 600 people take part in their programs, summer work opportunities and paid apprenticeships. Financial barriers are removed because they offer tuition-free and “pay-what-you-want" options.  

Collaborations with 20 regional high schools and community partners bring music creation software to youth where they are, and apprenticeship programs provide connections with regional entertainment production companies and year-long support as individuals transition from training to employment. 

“From audio, lighting or video production skills to the most current digital technology required for music, stage and multi-media creation, we provide those in our programs with what they need to succeed,” said Tech25 Founding Executive Director Pete Spynda. “We work to bridge the equity and access gaps in our region’s creative industries workforce so that all have the opportunity to build a sustainable career doing what they love.” 

Learn more about Tech25. 

Image credit: Students learn music mixing and production on Tech25's state-of-the-art equipment; image courtesy Tech25.