Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Lighting Technicians in Burbank, CA
Iatse Local 728 Training has served the motion picture and television industries since its charter in 1939. Specializing in the installation and removal of temporary electrical power systems, lighting control systems, and lighting instruments, the organization supports productions ranging from major motion pictures to streaming content. The union represents a full spectrum of professionals, including Chief Lighting Technicians (Gaffers), Assistant Chief Lighting Technicians (Best Boy/Girl), Lighting Console Programmers, and Rigging Technicians. With a nationally recognized training program and a workforce skilled in cutting-edge technologies, the organization provides services globally while maintaining its headquarters in Burbank, California. Rooted in a rich history of labor advocacy, the union emerged from a 1939 split of IATSE Local 37 and has since established itself as the only all-lighting local within the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.Its members adhere to rigorous safety standards and technical expertise, ensuring reliable solutions for complex production needs. The organization emphasizes continuous education through initiatives like its Safety Summits and ETCP-certified training programs. Leadership includes experienced officers and a dedicated executive board committed to advancing members' professional interests. The union operates under strict ethical guidelines, prioritizing member welfare, fair labor practices, and industry innovation. With decades of collective experience, the team maintains its reputation as a trusted partner for high-stakes lighting operations in entertainment production.
Services
Lighting Installation
Electrical Systems Setup
Rigging Operations
Safety Training Programs
Console Programming
Details
- Year established: 1939
Highlights and features
- We offer 85+ years of specialized experience in entertainment industry lighting since 1939.
- Our nationally recognized training programs ensure cutting-edge technical expertise.
- We provide globally available, union-certified professionals for all production scales.
- Our team maintains rigorous safety standards through ETCP-certified training initiatives.
- We operate under strict ethical guidelines with a focus on member and client welfare.
Services
Lighting Installation
Professional installation of temporary lighting systems for film, television, and live performance productions. Our certified technicians ensure optimal illumination while adhering to strict safety protocols. Services include equipment setup, circuit management, and compliance with industry standards for all production types.
Electrical Systems Setup
Comprehensive temporary electrical power system deployment for production environments. Our experts handle complex power distribution needs while maintaining OSHA compliance. Services support high-demand equipment requirements across studio and location shoots.
Rigging Operations
Specialized rigging services for lighting and structural support in entertainment production. Our certified riggers implement safe, efficient systems for overhead equipment placement. Services include load calculations, hardware installation, and safety inspections.
Safety Training Programs
ETCP-certified safety education programs for entertainment electricians. Curriculum covers electrical safety, rigging protocols, and emergency procedures. Training ensures compliance with national safety standards and industry best practices.
Console Programming
Advanced lighting control system programming for dynamic production environments. Our technicians configure digital consoles to manage complex lighting sequences. Services support both traditional and LED-based lighting technologies.
People
Martin Weeks
President
Martin Weeks leads Iatse Local 728 Training with extensive industry experience in studio electrical operations. He oversees union strategy and member representation while maintaining industry partnerships.
Malakhi Simmons
Vice President
Malakhi Simmons supports union operations and member advocacy efforts. He works closely with industry stakeholders to maintain labor standards and professional development initiatives.
Greg Reeves
Business Representative
Greg Reeves manages daily union activities and serves as a key liaison for member concerns. He focuses on contract compliance and industry relations across production sectors.
Questions
What services does Iatse Local 728 Training provide?
We specialize in lighting and electrical systems for film, television, and streaming productions, including rigging, console programming, and safety-certified installations.
How can I join Iatse Local 728 Training?
Visit our Future Member Resources page for application details, including eligibility requirements and training program information.
Do you offer training programs?
Yes, we provide nationally recognized safety and technical training, including ETCP-certified courses for entertainment electricians.
What areas do you serve?
Our members work globally, supporting motion picture, television, and streaming productions across North America and international markets.
