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STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE CHAMBERS HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT 06106 |
M. Jodi Rell Governor |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 21, 2010
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Contact: 860-524-7313
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Governor Rell: Connecticut’s Third Film Industry
Training Program Now Taking Applications
Newly Revised Web Site www.ctfilmworkforce.com Now Up & Running
Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the state will again be offering its Connecticut Film Industry Training Program (FITP), an extraordinary opportunity for residents seeking the skills to work in the state’s rapidly growing film industry.
This will be the third time Connecticut has offered the program, the first of its kind in the nation. Applications are only available on the newly updated Web site www.ctfilmworkforce.com and must be submitted by April 23. Classes begin June 7.
“Connecticut is quickly gaining the reputation as a hub for the film industry – and with all our state has to offer, it’s no surprise,” Governor Rell said. “We are in the right location and our tax incentives are creating the right environment. Our diverse geography provides a range of scenic backdrops and the perfect settings for films and television shows. We have recognized film companies developing an established infrastructure for the growing industry. And by investing in the work force, we are completing the circle.
“With a work force that meets the demands of this creative, high-tech industry, media companies that relocate here will remain and others will start here,” the Governor said. “We are offering training for people who want to learn the basics of feature and episodic television film production and pursue entry-level work in the industry. Classes will be taught by motion picture professionals who have significant career experience and are active members of the motion picture trade unions related to the skills they teach.”
The 2010 training program will again be offered at Quinnipiac University in Hamden.
“This training program is essential to our effort to grow and strengthen the film industry,” said Joan McDonald, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. “We are not only getting Connecticut workers the skills they need, we are sending a clear signal to the industry that a talented and knowledgeable labor pool exists here.”
Areas of specialization include: assistant directing, location management, production office coordination, script supervision, lighting and grip, camera, sound, props and set dressing, set construction and wardrobe. At the end of Week 4, graduating trainees will receive a certificate from the Office of Film, Television and Digital Media.
Upon completion of the program, certified trainees may receive up to 5 weeks of internship, working alongside producers and crew members on a project shooting in-state. Opportunities for internship participation are dependent on the cooperation of producers and on the shooting schedules of participating productions. Internships will take place throughout the year.
“This comprehensive program will equip students with the specialized skills and hands-on experience they need to pursue careers in the industry,” said Rob Keating of the Office for Workforce Competitiveness. “In addition, they will have the valuable and unique opportunity to build relationships with accomplished professionals in the field.”
The training program curriculum:
Week 1: Production Overview (June 7 – June 11, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – A comprehensive production overview and survey of job categories in the feature film and episodic television industry.
Week 2: Concentrated Training (June 14 – June 18, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – Each student will pursue his/her selected area of production or technical concentration during intensive, hands-on training in the classroom, studio and on location.
Week 3: Pre-Production (June 21 – June 25, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – Led by the assistant director instructor, final organization, scheduling, and planning. The script is reviewed to make sure all elements are in place to begin the shoot.
Week 4: Production (June 28 – August 2, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – A five-day film shoot of a short narrative script. Led by an experienced DGA director, trainees will work together to produce, manage, and coordinate this week-long effort.
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