“MADE IN NY” PRODUCTION ASSISTANT TRAINING IN NYC

The “Made in NY” Production Assistant Training Program helps low-income New York City residents get their foot in the door of the dynamic world of film and television. We offer this free program in partnership with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment.

No previous production experience is required. Applicants who do not have a high school diploma, GED, or college degree are encouraged to apply. We’re looking for individuals who are available full-time, ready to learn, and eager to work.

IMPACT STUDY

In 2023, this report was released by Bloomberg Philanthropies and Brooklyn Workforce Innovations and authored by Buro Happold. It illustrates that investing in early career development in the production industry creates conditions for well-paying jobs and increases opportunities for underrepresented communities to be a part of this iconic industry.

OUR TRAINEES

We serve unemployed or low-income New Yorkers who face significant barriers launching their careers. Our students are not only passionate about TV & film, but committed to building a long-term career in the industry. The ideal applicant is well-suited to the freelance lifestyle, shows up on time and understands set etiquette, and is ready to work hard.

We screen hundreds of applicants each year for about 80 training slots, so please read our Apply page to make sure you’re a good fit before attending an Information Session. Many applicants fall outside of our target populations, particularly when they have Bachelor’s degrees or paid industry experience.

Interested in hiring a “Made in NY” PA grad? Employers, please visit our Hire page for more details.

OUR PROGRAM

The training program is 4 weeks long, full-time, with homework and occasional evening sessions. Our base of operations is the Brooklyn Navy Yard, but we occasionally hold training elsewhere in the city.

Participants who successfully complete the program receive 2 years of job placement assistance, career counseling, and support as they work their way up the ladder.

All BWI training programs are free of charge. However, trainees must be able to cover their personal expenses during the training and job search. We are unable to provide stipends.

WHAT COMES AFTER TRAINING

Graduates are placed into jobs as Production Assistants (PAs) on set and on location for film, television, commercial, and music video productions, where they provide support to the rest of the crew. PAs often:

• drive crew to and from set
• pick up equipment
• purchase production supplies
• perform “lockup” so that pedestrians don’t walk onto the film set

Almost everyone in the industry starts out as a PA. After working for 2-3 years to gain experience and connections, graduates often move up into more skilled positions in specific crew departments.

The “Made in NY” PA Training Program family includes thousands of alumni, employers, instructors, and industry friends committed to our graduates’ success.

OUR PARTNERS