Boosting its internal ranks of experts, RatPac Controls has hired renowned Lighting Programmer Joshua Thatcher, who comes from a lengthy career on set, as well as IATSE Local 728’s in-house Instructor who focused on lighting control and lighting technology. With credits ranging from TV series Star Trek: Picard and Loki, to features like one of the summer’s biggest hits, Top Gun: Maverick, Thatcher is an industry professional who brings over 20 years of experience to RatPac Controls.
“On-set support of our customers and education are huge priorities for us,” said Craig Brink, Chief Innovation Officer and Founder of RatPac Controls. “As an IATSE 728 member, I am aware of what an asset Joshua has been to the lighting community and members of Local 728. Joshua will continue to work as an innovator and thought leader in the entertainment industry as RatPac leads in providing technology needed today and in the future.”
As Field Application Engineer, Thatcher will be tasked with troubleshooting complex networking in situations where nodes, opto-splitter, and Ethernet switches are deployed. His role will also include providing knowledgeable details on RatPac’s product line while assisting crew members, rental house, and studio staff. Recognized as a forward thinker in the use of new technology and implementation of new control concepts, he has worked closely with manufacturers to develop and test products in real production situations. Thatcher’s strong understanding of rigging power, dimming systems and data networking as used in film and TV stage work makes him the perfect candidate to join RatPac.
‘RatPac is a great company, and their gear is rock solid, so it was an honor and a huge surprise when I was asked to join the team,” said Thatcher. “With more than 20 years of programming experience, walking away from being on set full-time was a major decision for me and my family. I am excited to continue my work with leading edge technology in the entertainment lighting industry in a new role.”
Fixtures Design Supervisor and MBSE’s SVP of Technology and Innovation Mike Visencio, who worked with Thatcher on Star Trek: Picard applauded RatPac’s choice. “Josh has been integral in making lighting control on set streamlined and adaptable to lighting challenges. His forward-thinking collaboration on small, large and mid-size projects have made my job and the end product that much better. I look forward to seeing his thoughts and constant evolution of lighting control take shape with RatPac to elevate the on-set work experience.”
Added Thatcher, “Working with RatPac will allow me to continue my relationships with all the talented people I have had the pleasure of programming for and the hardworking crews I have been able to work with all these years. This is going to be great, and I can’t wait to see where we go from here.” Thatcher begins his new position on September 1, 2022, in the LA office.
Further information from RatPac Controls: www.ratpaccontrols.com
