Meet George Cheeseman, our recent Creative Venue Technician apprentice. From discovering an unexpected career path at the end of college to gaining hands-on experience at major festivals and theatre productions, his story highlights how an apprenticeship can open doors to opportunities that classroom learning alone can’t provide.
In this interview, George shares his experiences, challenges and proudest moments, offering an honest look at what it’s like to build a career in the creative industries from the ground up.
1) Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m a big fan of music, films and anything creative. After studying Media and Film Studies at A-level and playing bass with my college mates, I developed a real passion for indie, psychedelic rock, reggae and drum and bass. I also love classic horror films and modern thrillers. Outside of that, I’m an animal lover, longboard cruiser, and part-time photographer.
2) What inspired you to apply for the Creative Venue Technician apprenticeship?
Honestly, I was finishing college with no clear plan, except knowing university wasn’t for me. My mum suggested apprenticeships, and after applying to a bunch, White Light invited me to interview. Seeing the warehouse and learning about the course made everything fall into place. I’d always wanted to be part of a creative industry, and this felt like the perfect starting point. It was the opportunity I needed. Thanks, mum.
3) What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
No two days are the same. Early on, I rotated through different departments, learning technical equipment hands-on. As the year progressed, I started going on-site, contributing in teams, hitting deadlines, and eventually working independently. By the end, I really understood the systems and structures behind live events.
4) What type of venues or productions have you been involved with during your apprenticeship?
My favourite events and productions include:
- Working as a Stage Lighting Technician on the Greenpeace Stage at Glastonbury (2024–25)
- Event photography, videography and music tech with Climate Live at Wireless Festival (2024)
- Volunteering on the artist liaison team at Love Saves The Day (2025) in Bristol
- Helping install My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre
5) What are some of the key technical skills you’ve developed so far?
Some of the technical skills I’ve gained include:
- Terminating and soldering cables
- Troubleshooting equipment and systems during live events
- Ringing out frequencies, EQ tasks and setting up lighting fixtures
- Understanding event planning from start to finish, whether corporate PA or West End theatre
6) How has your confidence or creativity grown since starting your apprenticeship?
I’ve become much more confident in my career ambitions. Being around so many creative and technical people has inspired ideas for songs, lighting setups, video edits and more.
7) What’s been the most exciting project or event you’ve worked on?
Glastonbury stands out. You’re thrown straight into a huge event, working with people you’ve never met before, who you quickly bond with — even spending time together at the crew bars after shifts. It made the entire experience unforgettable.
8) Have you faced any challenges along the way? How did you overcome them?
Adjusting from college to full-time work was challenging. I struggled with work-life balance at first, but talking to others and getting advice helped me find a healthier routine and set boundaries without compromising either side of my life.
9) What moment are you most proud of during your apprenticeship journey?
Achieving two distinctions in my End Point Assessment. I had doubts going in, but staying focused and preparing properly really paid off.
10) How has this apprenticeship helped you plan or shape your career goals?
It opened my eyes to the huge range of roles in the entertainment sector. Now I’m considering multiple pathways in the industry, especially within music and live events.
11) What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a Creative Venue Technician apprentice?
Be daring, be motivated, and if you can’t, find what motivates you. Jump into the deep end and learn everything you can. The investment you make in yourself pays off more than you ever expect.
12) In one word, how would you describe your apprenticeship experience?
Uplifting!
13) What does being part of the creative industries mean to you?
It means being part of the team behind the shows, festivals and exhibitions people love. Most people don’t think about the work behind the scenes, but you wake up early, learn fast, stay motivated and see it all pay off when the show opens. You feel part of a collective making something memorable.
14) What’s next in your career?
I’m moving into a new role with Delta Live as a Warehouse Operative/Equipment Preparation Technician. I’m excited to expand my audio and AV knowledge, work on more music events, festivals and immersive projects, and invest more time into VJing and photo/video editing.
Turning Passion into a Career
George Cheeseman’s apprenticeship journey shows just how much a hands-on, creative pathway can transform both skills and confidence. From learning technical systems and working on major festivals to discovering his own career ambitions, George’s experience highlights the unique opportunities apprenticeships offer in the creative industries.
For anyone considering a similar path, his story is a reminder that passion, curiosity, and a willingness to learn on the job can open doors to a fulfilling and dynamic career — one live event at a time.
Ready to start your own journey? Explore our latest apprenticeship vacancies and take the first step toward your future career today.
