This
is the premiere organization for keeping track of technology and setting
standards in the industry.   Originally staffed by educational
theatre personnel,  USITT has grown to include all of the entertainment
industry.  When the IATSE International joined USITT, it truly became
a professional organization.  USITT’s influence can now be seen in
all aspects of entertainment from local theatre to major conventions to
movie production.  USITT was instrumental in setting the common standards
for lighting controls,  motor controls,  CAD symbols and protocols, 
rigging,  and safety.

If
you are a technical professional and want to keep up with current trends
as well as participate in the future of entertainment theatrics, 
seriously consider membership in USITT.  Their site is below and is
free to look around.

                                                   
—-Dale

http://www.usitt.org