Neg Earth Lights believes that being ‘job-ready’ is about more than just technical skills. As an employer, the proudly independent lighting and rigging specialist values those who align with its culture and demonstrate a desire to learn – through reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to offer a quality service and collaborate across the teams that make up the live events sector.
Millie Weston joined the CAD and Fabrication departments at Neg Earth Lights after discovering the placement programme during her search for a route into the industry following a Fine Art degree. “I was eager to explore how I could combine the creative knowledge I’d developed during my studies with more technical skills,” Weston told TPi.
“This placement stood out as a unique opportunity to bridge that gap. Knowing it was the first programme of its kind at Neg Earth Lights made it even more exciting – I felt privileged to be part of the early stages of this initiative and wanted to contribute to shaping its development.”
Coming into the role with limited experience, Weston described the placement as a learning curve – “in the best way”. She elaborated: “One of the biggest takeaways has been understanding how each department contributes to a project and how even the smallest decisions can have an impact. Seeing the level of collaboration involved has given me a much deeper appreciation for the process behind every outcome.”
A particular highlight for Weston was gaining in-depth exposure to the fabrication department. “Seeing both the design and physical production sides of Neg Earth Lights’ custom fabrication has been incredibly valuable, especially as I learn software like Vectorworks and CAD,” Weston added.
“It’s helped me understand not just how to draw something. When asked if she would encourage others to apply – particularly those at the start of their burgeoning careers – Weston was emphatic: “In just four months, I’ve already developed skills in CAD, Vectorworks and project development, and being involved in custom fabrication has helped me understand both the creative and technical sides of the work. The team are always willing to teach, which makes it a brilliant environment to grow.”
Neg Earth Lights offers three types of paid placement opportunities – lasting three, six, or 12 months – designed to ensure each participant finishes with confidence and a clear understanding of the expectations involved in meeting client demands. The three-month placement is aimed at individuals exploring a career in live events, while the longer placements are typically undertaken as part of a formal qualification.
Cameron Moore, who joined the Network and Control department, discovered the programme through Neg Earth Lights’ Instagram page. “What stood out to me was how much the company values its placement students and the hands-on experience we get,” he shared. “I’ve learnt a great deal about lighting control networks and gained a clearer picture of how technical and creative elements work together in large-scale productions. The placement also made me more aware of how much I still must learn.”
Moore cited assisting with the control network build for Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid Stage in his second week as a particular highlight. “It was eye-opening to see how the system came together and understand the level of detail that goes into preparing for a show of that scale. Having completed my placement, I’m leaving with a stronger technical foundation and a clearer sense of direction for my future in live event lighting. The experience has been invaluable, and I’d encourage others to apply if they’re interested in learning how large productions come together behind the scenes.”
Short-term placements – up to two weeks – are also available for those aged 16 and over who are still in secondary or further education. These opportunities provide real-world work experience and include standard onboarding, with health and safety embedded in every aspect of operations.
Stuart Taylor, who spent 12 months with the Motors and Automation teams, discovered the placement programme at Production Futures during his final year at the Academy of Live Technology. “This was a valuable opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of motors and automation, while working alongside industry professionals to build connections and advance my career,” he said.
Taylor shared how much he learnt about the behind- the-scenes preparation required before a production even reaches rehearsals. “It’s been eye-opening to gain insight into pre-production. Some of my personal highlights include working in the studios alongside industry professionals and understanding their requirements and the needs of each production.”
Now that he has completed the programme, Taylor is keen to continue developing his automation skills and growing his professional network. “I would highly recommend this programme to anyone interested in a career in the live events industry,” he added. “Whether you’re already in the industry or have no experience at all, I believe this placement can offer something new for everyone to learn from.”
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Words: Jacob Waite
Photos: Neg Earth Lights
