In partnership with local employers, KAF has just launched its new ArtWorQ initiative with the goal of connecting St. Louis job seekers with careers in the arts and entertainment industry, which currently has a high demand for qualified workers. This special workforce and employment training program is focused on practical skills and cross-sector job opportunities within the arts and entertainment sectors.
ArtWorQ is designed to create a pipeline to jobs for low to moderate income individuals in the city and county of St. Louis, as well as the entire Missouri region and is aptly suited to take place within KAF’s numerous arts and entertainment venues.
“Since 2006, KAF has been committed to providing local, emerging artists and community arts organizations with the vital infrastructure, including space and tools, to perform and showcase their work. Now, we’re taking that commitment into the broader arts and entertainment community by supporting those who perform skilled jobs within the industry,” says KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen.
The A&E Industry Career Prep Program is a free six-week intensive training for workers to gain a solid foundation in essential skills needed by employers via a customized curriculum focused on the arts and entertainment sector. Participants will gain real-world exposure through guest speakers, behind-the-scenes site visits, and exclusive industry insights and will earn industry-recognized certifications to give their resumes a competitive edge — all while receiving a weekly stipend. The program will employ apprentices to learn and train alongside training partners, onsite in the Grand Center Arts District.
Program enrollment is targeted to persons of low to moderate income in underserved and underrepresented urban and rural areas throughout Missouri, with no prior experience needed. Applications are now open at: https://kranzbergartsfoundation.org/workforce/.
