Workforce Development Program

The Workforce Development Program is designed to advance and strengthen the training of current and future workers in independent live performance spaces. The program aims to foster community-building strategies that aid in developing local talent and removing barriers for entry, in particular for currently underrepresented communities, towards viable career paths within the industry. Currently, the program consists of Virtual Trainings and the 4-month Venue Operations Experience (VOX).

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT - VIRTUAL TRAININGs

The FREE virtual trainings cover a range of topics related to independent venues and promoters. These interactive sessions involve various venues and organizations that contribute their unique insights, expertise, and best practices. These trainings are open to any current or prospective employee of an independent venue or promoter. Venues and promoters must not be owned (in whole or in part), managed, or exclusively booked by an organization that has more than one of the following three attributes: (1) “publicly traded”, (2) multinational, or (3) owns, manages or books venues in more than one state. We encourage live attendance to get the interactive benefits of each session. If you are unable to attend during the live virtual event, you can access the archived portion of the events.

To access the Training Hub archive of recorded trainings and supporting materials, please fill out the form here.

For questions or partnerships surrounding the workforce development programs, please reach out to christy@nivf.org.

RSVP HERE!

Upcoming Development sessions

September 18 | 3:30pm ET

Amplifying Access: Best Practices for ASL in Live Music

Live music should be accessible to everyone and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation plays a vital role in making that possible. This session will equip venue operators, promoters, and staff with practical tools and strategies to successfully integrate ASL interpretation into live music events.

The session will cover:

Legal requirements – Understanding what the law requires when an interpreter is requested and how “reasonable accommodation” is defined in practice.
Hiring interpreters – Where to find qualified ASL interpreters with music-event experience, how to budget appropriately, and tips for building relationships with interpreters.
Artist coordination – Best practices for working with artists to provide set lists and lyrics in advance, including navigating situations when materials aren’t readily available.
Stage considerations – How to position interpreters on stage to balance visibility and accessibility.