The MBS Illumination Grip & Electric Training Program in Alberta
Are you interested in a career in the Motion Picture Industry but don’t know where to start? This was a FREE opportunity to learn about two of the major departments on a film set: Grip and Electric.
The MBS Illumination Training program seeks to provide individuals from traditionally underrepresented communities with hands-on below-the-line training. Over two weekends in May 2024, participants learned film production basics in Gripping and Set Electrics. The program was completely FREE. Applicants were 18 years of age or older. Eligible participants also received a $500 stipend.
Selected participants were contacted for a Zoom (video conferencing) interview.
The program was taught by leading industry professionals. Training days were 8 hours long, starting at approximately 9:00am. Applicants were responsible for their own accommodation and transportation to and from Rocky Mountain Film Studio in Calgary, Alberta. Lunch was provided each day.
Applicants were required to indemnify and hold harmless MBS Group and REEL CANADA and Creatives Empowered. This means that should anyone become sick or injured during or after the training, MBS Group, REEL CANADA and Creatives Empowered had no financial obligation to assist with medical care (bills) or loss of income. Participants took this training at their own risk.
PREVIOUS TRAINING DATES:
MAY 18, 19, 25 & 26 2024
JULY 15, 16, 22 & 23, 2023
OCTOBER 15, 16, 22 & 23, 2022
APRIL 23, 24, 30 & MAY 1, 2022
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WHAT TO EXPECT
A masterfully lit film set creates the tone and mood for a scene as well as an entire project. Bending, shaping the light, softening and using every color of the rainbow allows the storyteller to illuminate their vision for the audience.
The MBS vision for Illumination Training seeks to guide the film and television industry toward greater diversity and inclusion in the areas of lighting, grip and set construction. MBS initiates the trainings in partnership with like-minded organizations in regions across the film and television landscape. The program lights the way on education, job placement and mentorship for participants. MBS’ goal centres on developing an industry workforce as diverse and vast as the world itself.
SET GRIP BASICS
A customized production grip program focusing on the core skills required to work as a beginner Grip. A detailed discussion of the roles within the Grip department (Key Grip, BBG, Dolly Grip, Company Grip, etc.) will be explored. Foundational Hollywood Grip techniques will be taught including basic knots, setting flags, cutting light and diffusion, scene docking, teamwork and proper etiquette, etc. Participants will use tools essential to grip work. All discussions will reinforce the safety aspect and protocols of responsibilities within the grip department.
SET ELECTRIC BASICS
A customized production set lighting program focusing on the core skills required to work as a beginner Set Lighting Technician, (SLT). A detailed discussion of the roles within the set lighting department (Gaffer, BBE, SLTs, Generator Op, etc.) will be explored and how to create simple lighting for a film and television production. Participants in the course will learn basic knot tying, essential equipment, distro, different types of lights and processes for safe operation with electrical systems used on film and television sets. Teamwork and fundamental communication will be stressed for safe work environment.
These are hands-on courses taught by industry professionals!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I know nothing about being on a film set. What can I expect?
Please check out the above video from the MBS Illumination Grip & Electric Training in Alberta, Canada!
After I take this program, can I join a film union?
The MBS Illumination Training program does not meet all of the minimum requirements to join IATSE 212 as a Permittee. You must also complete the mandatory Set Etiquette & Protocol course, and any other requirements listed per department.
For specific information about the requirements per department, please CLICK HERE to visit the IATSE 212 website.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the GRIP DEPARTMENT.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the LIGHTING and ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT.
What is a Permittee and how do I become one?
Becoming a “Permittee” allows you to work on productions under the jurisdiction of Local 212. Permittees are dispatched when a position cannot be filled by a union member. Permittee status does not guarantee receiving a call for work. Persons applying for Permittee status in all “Motion Picture” departments are required to take an IATSE Local 212 approved Set Etiquette & Protocol course. When the Union supplies personnel to facilitate safe and proficient productions, the organization must be able to stand behind each worker, confident that they are an experienced, trained, competent and a talented professional. After candidates have submitted an application package, resume and department required material, Permittee status will be determined based on the following:
- Professional training in a specific craft.
- Demonstrated talent in a specific craft or related area of expertise.
- Understanding of the entertainment industry workplace / environment.
- Honesty, good character and professionalism.
CLICK HERE to access the IATSE 212 Permit Application Package.
For more information on IATSE 212, the departments they represent, and how to become a Permittee, CLICK HERE to visit the IATSE 212 website.