Who we are

Our Story

Founded in New Orleans, Tech Lagniappe was born from a simple idea: real training should be available to everyone who wants to work in live production.
In an industry built on skill, trust, and hands-on experience, too many talented people never get the chance to learn. We set out to change that.

What began as a small community workshop has grown into a regional network of technicians, educators, and industry partners working together to raise the standard of production across the Gulf South.
Our name—Lagniappe, meaning “a little something extra”—reflects our commitment to giving back more than expected: more access, more opportunity, more connection.

What We Do

Tech Lagniappe provides free, hands-on training in live event production, including:

  • Audio Engineering: signal flow, console operation, and system tuning

  • Lighting & Control: fixtures, patching, and creative design

  • Video & Camera Systems: setup, switching, and playback

  • Rigging & Stagecraft Fundamentals

Each class is taught by working professionals using professional-grade equipment, ensuring participants leave with skills they can immediately use on the job. Whether you’re an aspiring technician, student, artist, or volunteer, our workshops are designed to build confidence through practice, mentorship, and community support.

Our Approach

We focus on experience over theory. Participants learn by doing—connecting cables, running cues, and solving real problems in real environments. Every session emphasizes safety, collaboration, and the professionalism expected in live event settings.

By partnering with local venues, production companies, and manufacturers, we create training opportunities that mirror the conditions of an actual show.
It’s education grounded in reality—taught by people who make their living behind the scenes.

Our Organization

Tech Lagniappe is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. That means every dollar we receive—whether through donations, sponsorships, or grants—goes directly into funding free education, equipment access, and community programming.

We operate with transparency and accountability: our instructors and volunteers are all working professionals donating their time and expertise to give others a chance to learn.
We keep our overhead low so resources can go where they matter most—into gear, space, and students.

If you’d like to support us, your contribution is tax-deductible and helps us continue offering workshops, certifications, and mentorship programs that open real career pathways in live production.

Our Community

Tech Lagniappe is a collaborative effort between working AV professionals, students, and industry partners. We believe the best way to strengthen the industry is by sharing knowledge freely and supporting those who are ready to learn.

Our community includes instructors and volunteers from some of the Gulf South’s most respected production houses, theaters, and touring crews. Together, we’re building a pipeline of skilled technicians who will define the next generation of live event excellence.

Get Involved

If you’d like to attend a workshop, sponsor a session, volunteer, or make a donation, we’d love to hear from you.
Your support keeps the lights on, the gear rolling, and the next generation learning.

Lighting