Quinnipiac was recently selected by the Connecticut state government to receive funding for a new film industry training program, which will teach individuals the basics of feature and episodic television film production.
Gov. Jodi Rell announced the new program on June 12. "Our motion picture tax credits have brought an influx of top production companies and jobs to our state," Rell said in a press release. "Connecticut is now established as a prime production location, but we must also establish a skilled in-state film workforce. Doing so will provide an additional incentive for producers to select Connecticut as the location for their films and television shows."
Classes, which begin July 7, will be taught by motion picture professionals who have significant career experience and are active members of the motion picture trade union related to the skills they teach. The three-step curriculum includes:
- Production overview, which includes a general overview and survey of job categories in the feature film industry
- Concentrated training, which includes intensive, hands-on training in the classroom, studio and on location in a selected area of specialization
- On-set mentorship, which allows students to work alongside department heads and crew members on a feature film or episodic television project shooting in-state.
"Quinnipiac is always interested in promoting economic development in Connecticut," said Liam O'Brien, associate professor of media production in the School of Communications. "We hope our participation will help students and others find new ways to create vibrant economic opportunities and further strengthen the Connecticut economy."
Applications for the program are due June 30, 2008. Learn more or download an application.