Become a Production Assistant
We recommend that those interested in becoming crew members begin with an entry-level position as a PA.
#1. You will need to complete the Motion Picture Industry Orientation Course (MPIO).
Developed in partnership between Creative BC, MPPIA, and industry labour organizations, this course is administered by Actsafe and provides the information you need to know before working on a film set. It’s also a requirement for membership or permittee status in most unions.
Build skills and confidence. Earn industry-recognized certifications. Kickstart your career in Film and Television.
Take the Film Production Assistant Micro-Credential Here
#2. Get to know people in the industry!
Everyone who hires in film and broadcasting wants applicants who already have experience, whether volunteer or professional. Most people get their first film or broadcasting job through a contact – an acquaintance who knows about an unadvertised job or where work can be found.
How can you make these very important contacts?
- Make yourself visible. The only way people will know about you is because you’re already working, or from your school or volunteer work.
- Be an enthusiastic worker. If you’re willing to try anything and enjoy what you’re doing, people will remember you.
- Be curious about others. Your network is not just about you. Have a genuine interest in what others do and enjoy learning from them.
- Stay in touch. Relationships need constant work. Give your contacts a call now and then, and ask them how they’re doing. Tell them what you’re up to.
- Volunteer at the Film Commission
- Become a Film Commission Member and come to our events!
#3. Visit the Creative Pathways™ | Get Into #BCFilm Website
A 2019 Labour Market Study found B.C.’s motion picture industry was growing, but the below-the-line workforce (artists, technicians, craftspeople, designers, drivers, performers and business managers who realize the artistic vision of the writer, director, and producer in motion picture production) was less diverse than B.C.’s overall workforce. B.C.’s motion picture industry designed a workforce strategy with Creative BC called Creative Pathways, which focused on increasing its workforce through more fair and balanced representation.
Motion Picture Production Industry Association (MPPIA) and Creative BC collaborated with industry stakeholders to launch Creative Pathways and continue supporting workforce development.
Discover tools to start a career or find jobs in #BCFilm:
Please note that you must be 19+ to work on set and possess Motion Picture Industry Orientation course certification for DGC Union shows.
Sign with an Agency
We recommend that those interested in becoming an extra sign with an agency. No cost is associated with signing up unless you wish to get professional portraits taken. You do not need to be signed with a Victoria agency to get work in Victoria.
Victoria Film Industry – Networking & Events
Check out this comprehensive guide on the Creative BC Website outlining how to get started in the industry.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
The Film Commission regularly recruits volunteers throughout the year to assist with:
- Location Scouting & Location Database Updates
- Special events: galas, industry mixers, and workshops
- Administration
- IT: website, network, office computers
- Fundraising
- Communication, marketing & member relations
We keep a general list of volunteers we contact when we have specific projects and events we need help with. We also take on volunteers who would like to help out more regularly. If you’re interested in volunteering, please email us.
Please note, that we do not do any film production in our office and as such do not have production assistant volunteer opportunities.
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