Stage 32 and Film Tampa Bay Launch Free Production Assistant Certification Program to Boost Local Film Industry
Tampa Bay’s Film Industry Gets a Boost: Free Production Assistant Training Program Launched
In an exciting development for the Tampa Bay film scene, Stage 32 and Film Tampa Bay have joined forces to offer a free Production Assistant Master Certification Program to twelve local candidates, a program valued at $2,000 per student. Kicking off this month, this initiative aims to cultivate local talent and strengthen the region’s film crews, setting the stage for a burgeoning industry.
As the local film industry continues to thrive, with over $100 million injected into Hillsborough County in the past decade, the need for skilled professionals has never been more pressing. This year alone has seen record-breaking activity, including 6,000 hotel stays and $31 million earmarked for upcoming projects. However, the influx of outside crews often drives up production costs, making Tampa less appealing for future endeavors.
To combat this, the new training program will not only equip participants with essential skills but also pave the way for additional job opportunities in roles such as assistant directors, grips, and set electricians in the coming year. Award-winning professionals will lead the training, drawing from Stage 32’s extensive library of over 3,000 hours of material, which has garnered partnerships with Netflix and major film festivals. Graduates will have the chance to work on local projects and earn IMDb credits, further enhancing their careers.
The program is actively seeking talent from five key institutions: Hillsborough Community College, University of Tampa, University of South Florida, Tampa Bay Community Network, and Film Florida. This collaboration aims to create a robust pipeline of qualified film workers, addressing the growing demand for local talent.
The timing of this initiative aligns perfectly with the screening of “What We Hide,” a locally-produced indie film that will be showcased at four venues: Tampa Theatre, Green Light Cinema St. Pete, Burns Court Cinema Sarasota, and Premiere Cinemas Plant City, from August 29 to September 4. This film not only highlights local storytelling but also underscores the importance of nurturing homegrown talent.
Moreover, the film office’s efforts to streamline the permitting process have attracted a diverse range of projects, from indie films to major television shows. Each production generates a ripple effect, creating jobs and boosting local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.
Building on previous training programs in Pinellas County, this initiative aims to fill West Central Florida with qualified film workers, removing financial barriers for newcomers eager to break into the industry. By investing in local talent, Tampa Bay is positioning itself as a competitive player in the film landscape, ensuring a vibrant future for its creative community.
As the film industry continues to flourish in Tampa Bay, this partnership between Stage 32 and Film Tampa Bay marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for local filmmakers and crews.