Carroll Community College has launched a new credit program in Entertainment Technology. The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) has approved the associate of arts and sciences degree and a certificate is pending approval from MHEC.

The new program will allow students to obtain audio, lighting, video and live-event crew training that supports presentation and entertainment events for organizations of all types and sizes. The hands-on program, which prepares graduates to enter the workforce with jobs in various technical positions, also provides partnerships with local organizations for on-the-job training. Such connections can open the doors to potential post-graduation employment.

“Carroll is pleased to provide state-of-the- art education in the field of Entertainment Technology,” said College President Dr. James D. Ball. “The introduction of this program illustrates how Carroll responds to the economic development needs in our community. Carroll is at the forefront of preparing audio and video technicians for successful entry into the profession.”

“This new program is uniquely designed to train people to be highly-educated professionals in the booming entertainment industry, by blending solid technical expertise with innovation, artistry, and creativity. We will provide the individuals behind the scenes of a theater or entertainment production—perfecting scenery, lighting, costumes, makeup, sound, and management—the professional skills necessary to pursue new and dynamic career opportunities within the arts,” said Scott Gore, division chair, Applied Arts.

“I am so excited to expose students to viable career options that most do not discover as a pathway in high school. I am looking forward to helping provide training and support in this ever- growing industry,” said Seth Schwartz, director of Production and Theatre Management, Program Coordinator, Entertainment Technology.

Carroll and Howard Community Colleges Receive NSF Grant

In addition to Carroll offering this new program, Howard recently began a similar degree program.

Both colleges recently received a joint award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education program.

The grant supports the training of audio-video systems specialists within college Entertainment Technology programs. The total grant award for both colleges combined was $427,583.

Over a three-year period, the award will fund equipment, staffing and assessment. The project title is “Addressing the Need for Innovative Education of Audio-Visual Specialists.” HCC and CCC collaborated in the grant application. Through a memorandum of understanding, both HCC and CCC are creating parallel programs that will share research and resources.

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