Getting Started in the Film Industry

Becoming a PA (Entry Level Position on a Film Set – Locations/On Set PAs and Office PAs)

Here are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself to work in the film industry

Take introductory courses*.

Course Name	Where to take it
Motion Picture Industry Orientation Course (Note: recommended for everyone starting out)	Royal Roads University
WHMIS	Online through ActSafe BC
Traffic Control (for Locations PAs)	BCCSA Roadmasters Safety Group
Motion Picture Safety Awareness	ActSafe

* Note that courses listed are not required unless you want to become a DGC union permittee, but they are still recommended to improve confidence and competence on a set and can increase chances of employment.

Apply directly to a film or television production:

See what’s filming on the island and across BC on the CreativeBC Film List or the DGC Production List
Apply as a Locations PA, Office PA, or to a department that you have experience in (both union and non-union shows)

Create a Production Assistant resume and get on our PA list

A PA resume is: a one-page resume with your film, television or related experience and any certifications/licenses that are relevant.
Once you have at least one production on your resume, we can add your contact information to the ONLINE LOCAL CREW LIST as a PA or in a specific department where you have experience.
If you wish to set up an online crew profile (resume, availability, union affiliations, notes) please pay your membership fee with the Film Commission
We also have a PA MAILING LIST for those looking to gain entry into the industry. We try and send this list entry-level opportunities that we hear of. Not an official crew list–no membership required.
Note: this does not ensure employment. The Film Commission does not hire crew directly. We give the crew list password to Producers and Production Managers. A production that finds you from this list will contact you directly.

More Info on Becoming a PA

Entry Level Permittee Logbook Program

DGC PA Helper Manual

PA Survival Guide

Includes: role of the PA, info on the permittee program (becoming a union member), and a checklist of required courses.

Camera Trainee Program
Read more about the camera trainee program on the IATSE 669 website

Getting Additional Experience