International Cinematographers Guild, Reel Works Partner for Loader Training Program
Originally published in The Hollywood Reporter.
Education and workforce development organization Reel Works has joined forces with the International Cinematographers Guild on its latest initiative for aspiring filmmakers, the IATSE Local 600 loader training program.
Between Feb. 6 and March 1, the Brooklyn-based nonprofit schooled 12 New York-based trainees on tasks and skills required of digital and film loaders in the film and television industry. (On entertainment sets, loaders — whose job is often considered a classic entry point into the camera department — are responsible for downloading, carrying and organizing media magazines like film and digital and keeping track of their transportation to and from labs and transfer facilities.) In partnership with Netflix, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Empire State Development, the inaugural program guided participants through the ins and outs of downloading digital, 35mm and 16mm film, working through on-set and media loading and supporting the camera crew, among other skills.
The International Cinematographers Guild and members Kyle Gorjanc, AJ Strauman-Scott, Vanessa Viera, Kristina Allen and Quenell Jones developed the curriculum, along with Reel Works. Taneice McFadden, David Satin, Kyle Blackman, Katie Greaves and Pedro Corcega also acted as instructors.
“Being in this program expanded my technical knowledge. On top of learning proper etiquette, I also learned how to be a better crew member to my team,” participant Paola Muñoz, who had previously worked on non-union sets, said in a statement. “I am now prepared to look out for my safety, as well as the safety of my team. It was a truly exhilarating experience to learn all the facets of being a loader and learning about the steps to being in the union. What used to feel very uncertain now feels like a path I know I want to take.”
The training took place daily for four weeks and included tours of the historic Kaufman Astoria Studios, which was opened in 1920 and provided the setting for the production of more than 100 silent films, and Kodak Film Lab, where trainees learned about the process of developing film. Participants also attended classes at the ARRI Rentals and Panavision rental houses to practice working directly with equipment.
Participants, who graduated on March 1, have been encouraged to apply for jobs on Netflix projects and to join Warner Bros. Discovery’s Access to Action program, which offers opportunities for diverse candidates to join WBD productions in New York in crew roles.
Said participant Layla Dozier, “My long term goal is to be a First AC, and with the support and knowledge of this program I have no doubt that I can and will achieve my goals sooner rather than later.”
Though Reel Works has previously organized pipeline programs with IATSE Locals for makeup artists, hair stylists, costumers, electricians, grips, set dressers, carpenters and others, this program marks its first partnership with a Local of the union whose membership is national. The International Cinematographers Guild, with members including film loaders, directors of photography, camera operators and publicists, is IATSE’s largest Local.
“After seeing so much success with our bespoke programs implemented in various IATSE districts across the country, it’s incredible to be able to partner with a national charter for the first time,” Reel Works co-founder and CEO John Williams said in a statement. “Our graduates possess so much potential and we are thrilled to help them actualize their goals.”