Catherine Cohen

• Installation of motors, truss and lighting systems in indoor and outdoor venues in and around the DC and Baltimore region

• Show prep- measuring and marking power and data networking cables, addressing fixtures and organizing equipment to maximize on site efficiency for load ins

• Directing local crews in installation of systems

• Collaborating with clients to ensure that production needs were met while maintaining compliance with best safety practices

• On call technician/ grip with New York based company, installing temporary systems for televised Town Halls, election season news studios
• Permanent installation of studio lighting in area studios for CNN, MSNBC, Fox News
• Worked with other lighting technicians in set-up and operation of lighting equipment in television and film platforms.
• Analyzed and interpreted lighting designer's plans as well as detailed notes from stage management.

• Collaborated with stage managers, directors, and other team members to create visually appealing and functional stage environments.
• Enhanced stage production quality by efficiently setting up and breaking down sets, lighting, and sound equipment.
• Demonstrated flexibility in adapting responsibilities as needed due to unexpected circumstances or last-minute changes before showtime.
• Upheld professional standards of conduct and performance etiquette, contributing to a positive work environment among team members.
• Maintained open communication lines with production teams to address any concerns or changes needed before curtain time.
• Troubleshot technical issues with lighting and sound systems to prevent delays or disruptions during shows.

* Direct stagehands in hanging and cabling conventional and intelligent lighting fixtures

* Troubleshoot technical issues and work with technicians and leadership to develop solutions in a timely manner.

*Worked from ladders, scaffolds and MEWPs to install and troubleshoot lighting fixtures

* Worked on teams managing lighting rigs in excess of 300 fixtures

* Some highlights include e-sports tournaments, President Obama 2nd Inaugural Ball, Partnership for a Healthier America events with Michelle Obama

Freelance production electrician for 4-Wall, Atmosphere, Audio Visual Services, Event EQ and LMG

• Directed stagehands in proper installation techniques, safety protocols, and troubleshooting rigs at locations around the US
• Developed strong working relationships with clients through consistent professionalism, reliability, and transparency during projects.
• Coordinated with other tradespeople seamlessly during large-scale installations or renovations to ensure smooth project progressions.
• Achieved consistent client satisfaction by prioritizing open communication throughout project stages, addressing concerns promptly and efficiently.
• Provided exceptional customer service through clear communication, accurate estimates, and timely project completion.

• Coached employees through day-to-day work and complex problems.
• Resolved conflicts swiftly among team members through effective mediation techniques, fostering an amicable working environment conducive to collaboration.
• Recruited technicians, assembled teams and distributed skilled and unskilled technicians equitably across departments to maximize efficiency
• Coordinated labor needs, assisted with logistics and found solutions for everything from equipment organizing, labor changes and costume storage
• Managed client needs from the CEO to employee talent/ skit night to swiftly adjusting set pieces during session breaks to wrangling horses.

• Carry out the duties of a Rigger with additional managerial responsibilities
• Manage staff on projects at multiple locations in Washington, DC
• Train incoming staff on company procedure for task completion, guiding staff in building hard and soft skills in order to deliver projects on time in a cooperative work culture
• Working with client representatives and vendors to determine timelines and execute promptly
• Forecasting equipment needs for tasks and ensuring equipment was in place and ready for use
• Tracking location of equipment in multiple locations & maintaining inventory lists for each location
• Sequencing steps for task in order to keep workflow consistent in order to meet deadlines
• Track equipment inspection and replacement needs and work with senior management to ensure all equipment is safe for use.
• Worked at heights and in confined spaces without difficulty.
• Determined correct rigging requirements for equipment based on job specifications and environmental conditions.
• Streamlined the rigging process for efficient setup and dismantling of stage equipment.
• Adapted quickly to changing circumstances and last-minute adjustments in event requirements, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability under pressure.
• Mentored junior riggers, sharing knowledge and techniques for safe and effective rigging practices.
• Addressed emergency situations promptly, applying problem-solving skills to resolve technical issues quickly without compromising safety standards or show quality.
• Developed strong professional relationships with vendors and suppliers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that resulted in efficient on site workflow

• Execute tasks on projects
• Coordinate with other technicians and leadership to determine scope and timeline for tasks
• Coordinate with client representatives on site to ensure needs are being met
• Conduct frequent and annual equipment inspections and determine safety for use
• Correctly use equipment to execute projects
• Identify potential issues which could cost time, and develop solutions.
• Rigged for heavy lifts according to blueprint requirements.
• Improved lifting efficiency with proper selection of rigging equipment for specific tasks.
• Ensured compliance with OSHA regulations by implementing safe work practices at all times during rigging operations.
• Secured safety equipment and always used gear according to requirements.
• Assisted in the development of lift plans, considering factors such as load weights, rigging capacities, and workflow in different spaces
• Enhanced team productivity through clear communication with colleagues regarding job assignments and expectations.
• Consistently assumed additional responsibilities and worked extended hours to meet project deadlines.
• Decreased potential hazards by promptly addressing any identified risks or issues related to rigging activities.
• Contributed to a positive work environment by fostering teamwork and consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic.
• Developed a strong understanding of rigging principles, enabling the accurate interpretation of blueprints and diagrams related to load handling activities.

Interpretation of drawings and leading crews in construction of scaffold and tower systems.

We frequently worked in high security and sensitive locations, such as the White House or Lincoln Memorial and large, complex spaces such as the National Mall.

Awareness of timelines, safety and security concerns while working with Secret Service and National Park Service in areas accessible to the public.

Worked as a climber, rigger, carpenter, electrician, spotlight operator, machine operator and deckhand on high level corporate and industrial events throughout New York City.

• Andrea Bocelli in Central Park
• various events for NY Fashion Week (Park Avenue Armory, Chelsea Studios, MoMA, Basketball City) for clients such as Nike, Tiffany and Marc Jacob
• various events for 2014 Super Bowl (on board the Intrepid, large tent jobs which included tent rigging, building self climbing tower systems and large lighting rigs)
• Governors Ball 2012 - 2015
• NFL Kickoff 2012 @ Rockefeller Center - assisted in rigging and securing large truss for construction of fascia surrounding above Prometheus sculpture
• Maintained a safe work environment by strictly adhering to established safety protocols and guidelines.
• Trained new technicians on standard operating procedures, ensuring consistency across the team.

Interpretation of drawings and leading local crew in construction of scaffold and tower systems in stadium, amphitheater and large venue settings (Piedmont Park, Lincoln Memorial, etc) for one off and touring productions.

Paul McCartney

Ozzfest 2007

Live Earth 2007

Dave Mathews Band

The Inauguration of President Obama, 2008

MLB opener with Bon Jovi, Central Park

Rigging tower system components in excess of 2 tons to fly into place with cranes

Installation of power and hoists to lift roofs for staging systems

Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.