As London’s award-winning venue RCP London Events enters another year of delivering standout conferences and hybrid experiences, we reflect on the journey of our first AV apprentice. The AV apprenticeship programme was launched in 2025 and is designed to bridge the skills gap in audiovisual technology, blending hands-on event training with academic study, helping shape the next generation of event tech professionals.
The audiovisual industry is evolving rapidly, with live, hybrid and digital events now demanding broader technical expertise than ever before. Alongside this growth, the sector continues to face a well-documented skills gap. At RCP London Events, investing in people has always been a priority to build a resilient, skilled workforce for the future.
That commitment took shape with the introduction of the Level 5 Audiovisual Technician Apprenticeship, developed in collaboration with Middlesbrough College and leading industry employers. One year into the programme, our AV apprentice Arron Montgomery is already seeing how structured training and real-world experience can shape a career in live events.
A year in, I’m glad I chose the AV apprenticeship. I first found the job on the Government apprenticeship site and the process was straightforward.
I was drawn to the mix of hands-on work with pro AV tech, from audio consoles to projectors and control systems and structured learning. I’ve always been fascinated by technology and how audiovisual systems enhance communication, entertainment and business operations.
This apprenticeship provides the opportunity to work with high-end equipment, develop technical skills and gain industry-recognised qualifications while learning from experienced professionals. Working with real kit in live environments while learning from experienced technicians has given me a great foundation in the industry.
The biggest learning experience has been working on live events. Setting up and troubleshooting equipment, from wireless mics and digital mixers to hybrid video conferencing systems, has sharpened my problem-solving skills and helped me stay composed under pressure.
I’ve also learned how important clear communication and teamwork are when coordinating with colleagues and clients.
What I enjoy most about AV is that no two days are the same. I like the mix of technical problem-solving and live environments, especially seeing everything come together just before an event goes live.
Working with audio, video and control systems, and knowing your setup plays a key part in a successful event, is what makes the role exciting.
One of the main challenges has been learning to work under time pressure during live events, particularly when issues need to be fixed quickly. The team has been supportive, talking me through fault-finding steps, signal flow and best practices on shows. Having experienced technicians around has helped me stay calm and deal with problems efficiently.
Over the past year, my skills and confidence have grown significantly. I’m now much more comfortable setting up AV systems, carrying out checks and troubleshooting issues during live events.
Looking ahead, I’m keen to get more involved with advanced setups, larger hybrid events and technologies like AV over IP, while continuing to take on more responsibility.
The Level 5 Audiovisual Technician Apprenticeship was created to address a long-term AV skills gap recognised by event stakeholders and employers, ensuring the next generation is equipped with practical experience and industry qualifications. Our venue has played an active role in shaping this framework, with Ben Pain, Head of Audio Visual Resources at RCP London Events and Spaces at The Spine, working alongside AV experts to establish a structured and comprehensive training model tailored to industry needs.
“Five or six years ago, there was no Government-supported AV apprenticeship framework, making it difficult to bring new talent into the industry,” says Ben Pain. “I was approached by a specialist AV recruitment agency to discuss solutions, which led to a collaboration with AV experts and venues to create this much-needed programme. The launch of the apprenticeship is a significant milestone, and I’m thrilled that the RCP is playing a key role in developing the next generation of AV technicians.”
Arron officially began his two-year apprenticeship in January 2025, embarking on a journey that combines practical learning in our state-of-the-art venue with academic study. The structured programme equips apprentices with the technical expertise and real-world experience needed to thrive in the AV industry.
With contributions from top employers - including Google, the British Museum, Bloomberg, and the National Gallery, the programme ensures that apprentices gain industry-relevant skills. Originally designed to bring fresh talent into the events sector post-COVID, it provides young people with a solid foundation to flourish in this dynamic field.
Through initiatives like this, RCP London Events continues to champion professional development, innovation and inclusivity in the AV sector. By welcoming Arron as our first apprentice, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting emerging talent and strengthening the future of the AV industry.
Reflecting on the importance of this apprenticeship, Ben Pain adds: “Having worked in the AV and live events industry for over 25 years, since my first role as an AV technician, I’m passionate about this industry and the people who work within it. Knowing how to design and operate AV technology to support communication and the sharing of ideas is a vital skill that requires knowledge of physics, electronics, IT and communication. I feel strongly that we have a responsibility to support the next generation in every way we can. I was very proud to be part of the team that designed the apprenticeship and I’m extremely happy to offer Arron an opportunity here with us at RCP London Events.”
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