Are you between the ages of 18 and 24, and looking to start a career behind the camera? Then the new Long Beach Creative Corps Entertainment Production Assistant Program may be for you.
Recently launched by the Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity (EDO), this new program aims to train local eligible residents interested in pursuing careers in film, television, live events, broadcast production, digital media and more. Applications for the program’s first cohort can be submitted online until Sept. 4 at 11:59 p.m.
“Long Beach is rapidly becoming a premier destination for world-class entertainment, and the Creative Corps Program will connect our local residents with emerging opportunities in an industry shaping our city’s future,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “We are ensuring that the continued growth of our booming entertainment sector directly benefits the people of Long Beach.”
The Creative Corps Program is overseen by the EDO’s Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network (LBWIN) Youth Career Services Center, in collaboration with Codega Media.
Through this program, 10 young adults will receive industry-led production assistant training, career coaching and paid work-based learning opportunities as they become acquainted with the region’s entertainment workforce. Training is scheduled for Sept. 23 and Sept. 24 at the LBWIN Youth Career Services Center (508 W. Willow St.).
“By combining industry-recognized training with paid, real-world experience and comprehensive support services, we are preparing the next generation of talent for meaningful careers in the entertainment industry,” said EDO Director Bo Martinez in a public statement. “This initiative is about creating opportunity, strengthening our workforce and building the professional networks and career pathways that will help fuel Long Beach’s creative economy for years to come.”
Cohort members will receive production assistant training and be introduced to a wide range of career paths that may include the following roles:
- Stagehand
- Live event production technician
- Broadcast production assistant
- Camera production assistant
- Audio and lighting assistant
- Event operations support
- Digital media production assistant
- Production office assistant
- Streaming and live broadcast support
Participants will also be introduced to several entry-level positions with production companies, event operators, convention facilities and entertainment venues. Following classroom instruction, participants may connect to paid work experience and employment opportunities with entertainment employers, venues, production companies and public-serving entertainment facilities.
Applicants who face barriers to education or employment will receive priority for the program, which is funded through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult and Youth programs. Potential barriers include housing instability, justice involvement, disabilities, foster care and low-income circumstances.
“There’s no shortage of talent in Long Beach — there’s a shortage of access. Codega Media designed the Creative Corps Production Assistant Program in partnership with the City to open that door — training residents for real careers in film and television and getting them working, not someday, but right now,” said President of Codega Media Inc., Melanie Mack, in a public statement.
This program aligns with Long Beach’s 2030 Strategic Vision to bolster job access and industry-aligned workforce development. The 2030 Strategic Vision also aims to ensure residents, particularly those with employment barriers, are tied to the City’s economic growth.
Those interested in learning more about the Long Beach Creative Corps Entertainment Production Assistant Program can attend a virtual information session on Aug. 26 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
For more details about the program and additional employment opportunities, visit longbeach.gov/workforce.
