A West Coast Swing apprenticeship program for aspiring MCs, DJs, and Judges!
Testimonials
“I participated in the Judge Apprenticeship program in 2026, and it was an incredible experience! Estelle Bonnaire was a fantastic mentor before, during, and after the weekend, always available to answer all my questions, and ensuring my experience allowed a clear window into what being on an event judging staff was like. And that integration with the staff really set the program apart from other judge training I've done! It gave me opportunities to connect with many of the judging staff members to broaden my education for the weekend, and it gave me a clearer sense of what being a judging professional in the WCS could look like. Additionally, I really appreciated that this program was not level restricted, which allowed me to participate even though I was WSDC Intermediate at the time of applying (some judging programs are Advanced+). I'm very excited this program is continuing and expanding to other events because it's so valuable; I don't know of any other opportunity in WCS for such a full and comprehensive apprenticeship-style experience at an event!” - Sarah Rempel
"I had the privilege of being the apprentice DJ and I highly recommend the program for anyone who is committed to their growth! The apprenticeship exposed me to the joys (and realities) of DJ’ing an event with hands on application and real-time feedback. The program supported me in my development as a DJ and for that I am incredibly thankful!" - Kathleen Sun
"Apprenticeship programs like Passing the Mic opens doors. In an earlier version of PTM, I got a ton of practical hands-on experience that both refined my skills and prepared me to work as part of an overall judging team. Plus, I came away with a much improved understanding of my values and biases, so that I can continue to improve fairness in my scoring. I felt so supported and welcomed the whole weekend — and the experience helped launch me into judging at WSDC events nationally and abroad!"- Alaina Yee
"The apprenticeship was the perfect chance for me to learn, grow, and practice my MC-ing in a safe and exciting environment. I would highly recommend it to anyone!" - Jeff Wingo
"The apprenticeship program helped me cultivate and refine my skills in real time not only from feedback and support from other DJs but also from the instant feel of community and feeling that i was a part of something amazing." - Lizzy Spann
“Being a part of the apprenticeship program helped kickstart my entry into WSDC events. It gave me the guidance, connections, and confidence to feel that there was a place for me, and that it was actually achievable. Continued mentorship even after the official program ended has been an incredible gift, too! 10/10 would recommend.” - Anne Snell
“Going through the apprenticeship program was an incredible experience, in large part because of how thoughtfully the program was structured. My mentor worked with me beforehand to help me prepare, taught me an incredible amount in the course of a weekend, and gave me kind and insightful feedback to help me improve my craft as an MC. It was a joy to be a part of and really renewed my love for the WCS community.” - Eli Schlenker