One of this year's recipients of the Brad Sousa Impact Fund, Tech25 is a nonprofit focused on the growing demand for skilled AV broadcast and event technicians. Currently based in Pittsburgh, the organization aims to provide awareness, access to training, and a pathway into the constantly growing industry. Considering the city's art sector bringing in $651 million dollars across 32,000 jobs annually, there are no vocational programs that prepare jobseekers for careers in event production and broadcast technology.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

One of their main focuses is providing this access to women and BIPOC communities to help create a more diverse workforce in the pro AV industry. They have programs for all ages, even youth-specific programs, that allow for anyone interested to get involved in this constantly growing field. Outside of their own programs, Tech25 collaborates with schools, libraries, museums, and workplaces to provide customized training sessions.

Core Training Offerings

Some of their current core offerings include introductory level courses in audio and lighting basics, which cover analog and digital signal flow, EQ, mixing, fixtures, controls, design principles, and safety. There are also specific courses on live sound which heavily feature hands-on training, culminating in a real live event support experience. For more specialized topics like RF coordination, Dante networks, and FOH mixing, they offer advanced masterclasses and certifications – some coming with Credly credentials.

Specialized Programs for Different Life Stages

Start on Success Program

Tech25 offers unique and inclusively designed programs that allow for people who may not have otherwise had exposure to or access to the resources needed in order to pursue the live events field. Start on Success is a program designed for high schoolers to receive daily, immersive training in audio, lighting, DJing, and digital media. The program also emphasizes resume building, digital organization, and teamwork, so participants can be more prepared to succeed in any career path.

GAP Year Apprenticeship

They also offer a GAP Year Apprenticeship which offers recently graduated a paid, hands-on pathway and learning experience in live events and broadcast production. Over the year in the program, participants train in audio, lighting, video, and stagecraft with industry professionals, bridging the gap between school and a career.

Real-World Experience and Community Building

Beyond educational programming, Tech25 provides access to apprenticeships and real-world experience so participants can work side-by-side with industry professionals to help build their knowledge, confidence, and network, all while creating community within such a large industry.

Brad Sousa Impact Fund Support

With the support of the Brad Sousa Impact Fund, Tech25 will offer more technical skills, certifications preparation, and hands-on experiences to children and adults to help them secure careers in the professional AV industry.

To learn more about the other recipients of the Brad Sousa Impact Fund, check out Rosie Riveters and WorkSource Montgomery.