I need
To get an apprenticeship in
pyro . I just seem to have some trouble getting
foot in the door.
If you want to get in to pyrotechnics, you need to get to know a
pyro company in your area and start working either in the warehouse or as an assistant on shows. If they're worth your time (and you do your part by showing up), they'll be eager to bring you in and get you the training you need.
Pyro is something that you have to learn from the
ground up. You learn while doing, and from someone more experienced than yourself. Then you get the certificates, licenses,
etc. You got the certificate first which isn't a problem, but you still need to work under someone for a while.
Pyro (like rigging) isn't one of those things where you can attend a class, take a test, and expect to go out working on your own.
Since you asked about
pyro in the states, here's my knowledge on the subject. There are three levels of
pyro licensing in the states:
SEO (Special Effects Operator; NFPA 1126) which allows one to perform proximate/indoor [1.4G fireworks] pyrotechnics,
FPO (Fireworks Pyrotechnics Operator; NFPA 1123) which allows one to perform high-level [1.3G explosives] outdoor displays, and
FEO (Flame Effects Operator; NFPA 160), which allows one to perform indoor/outdoor flame effects. How you go about getting these licenses depends on the state. Most require some requisite amount of experience before you're eligible to take the tests. For example, more experience is required before you can take the FPO test than the SEO or FEO since 1.3G is classified as explosives. However, being licensed is only half the battle. One still has to interface with the ATF in order to possess and store the pyrotechnics, DOT for transportation, and the local
AHJ to coordinate permitting on a show-by-show, venue-by-venue basis. Of course Canada is different, but similar mechanisms are in place.
Basically, a certificate will get you started and at least noticed, but you can't "hit the
ground running" with it. But it is a good start and can help you get an 'in' with a local
pyro company! But beware that many have non-compete agreements (at least they do here) so you'd do well by sticking with one company or at least asking about their policies on working with other firms. Most see you as an investment and may put resources in to your training, and might be unhappy if you're using your knowledge 'against them' at a competitor. It's an interesting niche with some trade-secrets that they prefer not getting passed around.
Final thought: read the local codes and become familiar with the way things should be done before you choose a company. If you go to work for someone and you see that they are cutting corners or have a lax attitude about
safety, go somewhere else. Don't expose yourself to bad habits. They exist everywhere in the industry, so that goes for riggers, electricians,
etc as well.