The Arts Institute for Creative Advancement

“This apprenticeship made me realize that my creativity is not only a passion but can also be a sustainable career." --2025 Apprentice

87% of AICA graduates are working backstage at DC theatre and event production companies.

Technical theater is a high-demand field that includes set construction, lighting, audio engineering and stage management. Trained stagehands & stage engineers make $20-$30 hour in DC and have consistent opportunities for employment at over 90 theatres and performance venues in town.

AICA is a year-long stagehand training & apprenticeship program primarily designed to train and serve young adults facing economic, educational, social and other barriers to high wage careers.

We hire some of the best industry DC professionals in lighting, audio, and carpentry to provide classroom learning, hands-on simulated training, and real world backstage apprenticeship experience to each of our student apprentices. Student apprentices will sit for USITT’s Basic Stagehand & Safety Exam, Audio Exam & Lighting Exam. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to be trained through IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) for Union work.

Apprentices must be available Monday-Friday from 12:30pm-6:30 pm from late-January-April and have flexibility for evening and weekend work from May-August. Job placement support and mentorship will continue through December 2026. Apprentices earn minimum wage for every hour of work and learning. Childcare and transportation stipends available. No degree or previous training required. Job involves heavy lifting. Priority given to applicants who live in DC.

APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 ARE NO LONGER BEING ACCEPTED.
PLEASE CHECK BACK IN AUGUST FOR 2027 PROGRAM INFORMATION.

Please direct any program-related questions to
AICA Program Director, Natalie Pertz, at 202-655-2255