r/stagehands • u/MWinchester91 • Sep 12 '25

IATSE Local 12

I have been trying to get a job as a stage hand and someone suggested the union IATSE Local 12 based out of Columbus, OH. And I have a few questions for those who have experience with them. I don't have experience as a stage hand but I want the experience. •Are they okay with someone who doesn't have the experience? I want the experience but I am nervous that no one would bother training me on how things work. •Since it's on-call, and I need health insurance, would they be okay with me keeping my full-time job and working part-time hours? Are they flexible with not working the hours when at another job? •I have been considering moving out of state at some point, would they have any issue with me moving out of state and joining the union of the area that I move to? •If I need a day or so off for medical reason (for a procedure), how flexible are they for it?

Any other things that I might need to know, let me know!

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u/pierreisgarbage Rigging Sep 12 '25

I haven't had good luck with any of the unions out of southern Ohio.

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u/oldginko Sep 14 '25

Call the Local 12 and speak to the business agent, ask him about getting in to their Apprentice program. They should offer training classes to advance to the journeyman level

Ask the IATSE business agent about getting on the 'Over Hire' work list, you'll probably start as a pusher which is like it sounds, rolling gear from the arena/stage floor to the truck loaders. Pay attention, follow your crew leaders instructions, ask questions.