Arizona’s Film Industry Expands with New Certification Program
In a bold move to solidify Arizona’s position as a burgeoning hub for film production, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) has announced a strategic partnership with Scottsdale Community College (SCC). This collaboration aims to equip local talent with the necessary skills to thrive in the industry through an innovative Production Assistant Certification program set to launch from October 3-7, 2022.
The state has seen a significant uptick in high-profile production inquiries, such as the HBO series Duster, which filmed its pilot in Tucson. To meet the demands of this growing interest, the new program plans to train over 2,000 production assistants over the next five years, ensuring that Arizona retains its talent and financial investments.
A Collaborative Effort Across Arizona Colleges
Matthew Earl Jones, Director of Arizona Film and Digital Media, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, This initiative will be a big boost for Arizona.
SCC, recognized for its top-tier film education, joins a consortium including Glendale Community College, Coconino Community College, Yavapai College, and Pima Community College, in spearheading this effort.
Participants in the program’s first cohort will benefit from the expertise of a seasoned Hollywood line producer. The five-day intensive training, followed by an internship opportunity through the Arizona Production Association, aims to provide comprehensive exposure to the production assistant role across various departments. Graduates will receive a certificate co-endorsed by the ACA, the Arizona Production Association, and the host college.
Building a Foundation for Future Success
Bill True, Chair of the Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre Department, emphasized the importance of this program, remarking, Arizona has proved we can attract the biggest names in Hollywood…This training program is a key component to helping achieve Arizona’s potential as a top international film destination.
The program aligns with broader state efforts to rejuvenate Arizona’s film industry, including collaborations with tribal nations. Notably, in 2021, the Navajo Nation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the ACA to promote its lands as prime locations for filming. This training initiative will also extend outreach to tribal communities, fostering new career paths in the industry.
Arizona’s strategic development of a skilled workforce is set to bolster the state’s appeal as a competitive film destination, offering economic benefits across multiple sectors.
For more details on the Production Assistant Certification program, visit azcommerce.com/film-media/training-opportunities/.
About The Arizona Commerce Authority
The ACA is Arizona’s premier economic development organization focused on enhancing the state’s economy through business attraction, expansion, and the nurturing of entrepreneurial ventures. For more information, visit azcommerce.com and follow on Twitter @azcommerce.
About Scottsdale Community College
SCC is committed to providing high-quality education and support services, serving around 10,000 students annually. Located on Native American land, SCC offers affordable coursework with a focus on active and engaging learning. More information is available at www.scottsdalecc.edu.
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