At the Black Film Guild, we believe in creating opportunities for young talent to shine. Our Workforce Development Program is a core part of our mission to empower the next generation of artists, innovators, and creators. Through hands-on, paid experience on film and television sets, we are equipping young people in Oakland with the skills and confidence to thrive in the entertainment industry.

Workforce Development: Training the Next Generation of Creators

Our workforce development programming is designed to provide young people with training that will lead to direct, on-set experience in various facets of production, including:

Set Design: In partnership with Street Dog Fabrications, we provide young artists with hands-on experience in every stage of set design, from conceptualization to construction and painting. Through this collaboration, participants work alongside seasoned industry professionals, bringing commercial creative visions to life while learning the critical skills of set construction, design techniques, and teamwork. This immersive experience not only enhances their artistic capabilities but also prepares them for careers in the entertainment industry with the goal of job placement.

Production Assistants (PA): Through partnerships with industry leaders, such as MediaSeam, participants in our program gain invaluable experience as Production Assistants (PAs), learning how to manage on-set logistics, support operations, and become essential members of a production team. This entry-level role serves as a springboard into the broader world of film and television production, offering practical skills and networking opportunities that paves the way to land a job in the industry.

Real-World Experience with Corporate and Community Partners

We are proud to partner with corporate clients who believe in our mission and value the opportunity to collaborate with our workforce. These clients not only offer professional mentorship but also pay our participants for their time and dedication, ensuring that they are compensated as they build their skills. This hands-on learning model bridges the gap between education and employment, giving young people the tools they need to enter the workforce with confidence.

Why Support Our Workforce Development Program?

Your support will enable us to scale this vital program, providing more young people with the opportunity to gain work experience in the arts. By contributing to the Black Film Guild’s workforce development initiatives, you will:

Support Underserved Youth: All of our participants come from underserved communities, where access to creative opportunities is limited. Your funding helps ensure they can take part in this life-changing program.

Drive Economic Opportunity: By training the next generation of set designers, production assistants, and other vital behind-the-scenes roles, we are equipping young people with career paths that lead to economic mobility.

Scale Our Impact: With additional funding, we will be able to expand our workforce development offerings, provide more resources to our participants, and connect with more industry partners to offer even greater opportunities for on-the-job training. assistants

Current Course Curriculum

Settiquette Course

This course is designed to equip aspiring production assistants (PAs) with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel on a film set. Participants will learn set etiquette, proper behavior, and the critical roles and responsibilities of a PA through hands-on training. Topics covered include mastering tools like C-stands, understanding crew dynamics, and effectively utilizing industry-standard terms and techniques to support film crews efficiently.

The course emphasizes professionalism and practical application, ensuring attendees are prepared to contribute to a set’s success from day one. Upon completion, participants will earn a Certificate of Completion, symbolizing their readiness to join the industry and highlighting their commitment to fostering professional standards in film production. This initiative aligns with the Black Film Guild’s mission to empower new generations in the art of visual storytelling while supporting community connection and cultural expression.

Set Design Course

The Black Film Guild, in partnership with Street Dog Fabrication, proudly presents a specialized course designed to prepare students for the dynamic world of on-set production and fabrication. This immersive program bridges the gap between technical training and practical application, ensuring participants are ready to contribute from day one.

Through hands-on workshops and mentorship, students will gain expertise in essential set operations and fabrication techniques tailored to meet the high standards of Street Dog Fabrication. Participants will explore key aspects such as set construction, safe tool handling, efficient workflow management, and collaboration with production crews. The curriculum emphasizes professionalism, creative problem-solving, and adherence to industry best practices, making graduates indispensable assets to any set.

Upon completing this course, students will receive a Certificate of Completion, signifying their readiness to excel in on-set roles. With this partnership, the Black Film Guild continues to empower individuals by opening doors to meaningful careers in the film and fabrication industries, fostering the skills and confidence needed to thrive in creative and technical environments.