Atlanta Launches Nation's First-Ever Entertainment Training Program

Atlanta will be the first American city to train workers specifically for the film industry. 

You've spotted filming signs scattered around town. You've driven past filming locations decked out with camera equipment and crew. Heck, you may've been lucky enough to have spotted a Hollywood star or two in a local Atlanta institution. But have you ever wondered what it's like to work on one of the production sets in the area? To contribute first-hand in the creation of movie magic? Now, you can. 

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE Local 479) recently announced plans to launch the City of Atlanta Entertainment Training Program designed specifically to train below-the-line workers for Georgia's entertainment industry.

Introducing the Georgia Film Academy

Jeff Stepakoff will serve as Georgia Film Academy's Executive Director.

It's no secret that Georgia has become one of the country's most sought-after states in which to film. With competitive tax incentives, abundant production resources, and a multitude of filming locations and studios, we have attracted Hollywood blockbusters such as "Ant-Man," "Selma" and the "Hunger Games" series to Georgia. With the creation of the Georgia Film Academy, our camera-ready state seeks to add another attractive component—locally trained production professionals and staff—to our already long list of desirable features.

Through a partnership between the University System of Georgia (USG) and the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), the Georgia Film Academy is poised to support the workforce needs of Georgia's $6 billion film industry. The Film Academy will offer certification programs for employees in needed areas and prepare students for careers in the entertainment industry.