ETC is officially accepting applications for the 2024 Fred Foster Student Mentorship Program. Selected students will be introduced to established industry professionals through a series of lively online events. Ultimately, each student will be paired with at least one mentor who will help guide their transition into the working world. ETC will accept applications to the 2024 program through April 12, 2024. 

ETC Founder Fred Foster long championed the importance of mentorship in our industry. His passion for fostering the next generation led him to start ETC’s student mentorship program in 1999. Through this effort, Fred aimed to use ETC’s resources to help young lighting talent make lasting connections with seasoned industry professionals. 

Now, ETC hosts both a North American and International program, catering to students’ different needs. Selected students will attend a series of virtual networking events during the summer, meeting a variety of professionals working in different specialties within the industry. Ultimately, each student is matched with an industry mentor who will provide career guidance for the next year and often beyond. 

For the International program, the ETC team plans program activities and mentor introductions based on students’ regions of study and level of experience. 

North American program applications are open to students in their final year of undergraduate study or second- and third-year graduate students. The International program is available to students from outside of North America who are studying at the university level or demonstrate a keen interest in lighting and design through the submission of a CV. 

“I can say confidently that the mentorship experience was and is essential in my post-graduate life,” says Aria Sivick, a past recipient. “I have made countless connections and have received generous help from my mentors in terms of portfolios, resumes, and career advice.”

Applications are due by April 12, 2024. To submit your application and learn more about the Fred Foster Student Mentorship Program, please visit www.etcconnect.com/studentmentorship