In an effort to overcome a critical industry challenge, the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) and Stage 32 are embarking on a significant educational alliance. This partnership is specifically designed to alleviate the growing scarcity of trained technical personnel in the global film and television sector, a problem that has become more pronounced as production activities expand into new territories. The joint venture will be formally introduced at the AFCI's Power of Place Global Film Commission Network Summit, scheduled for May 15-16 at the Cannes Marché du Film, where discussions will center on both the opportunities and obstacles facing international productions.

The current landscape of film and television production is marked by an increasing number of regions offering tax incentives to attract projects, thereby intensifying the demand on local talent pools. This surge in production has highlighted a consistent global issue: a deficit of qualified crew members in essential behind-the-scenes roles. These crucial positions span various departments, including production accounting, management, assistant directing, line producing, location management, post-production, and coordination. By empowering film commissions with the necessary resources to develop local talent, this collaboration aims to enhance individual regions' capabilities and, consequently, bolster the entire global production network.

The primary objective of this program is to ensure that local workforces receive the training required to meet international standards, enabling productions to hire locally, qualify for incentives, and effectively manage their budgets. Stage 32's training and certification courses are led by seasoned professionals, including notable figures such as Mike Fantasia from Top Gun: Maverick, Miranda Carnessale from Barbie, producer Brad Carpenter of The Diplomat, and Shalonda Ware from Paramount Studios. With a track record of collaborating with over 50 film commissions and organizations across the globe, including successful programs in Saudi Arabia, Croatia, South Africa, Uganda, and Poland, Stage 32 brings extensive experience in developing local crews capable of supporting incoming productions at a global level. The initiative, set to launch worldwide in June, will offer comprehensive training, certification access, and ongoing educational opportunities to AFCI members, further solidifying the foundation for a thriving and adaptable film industry.

By investing in the education and development of skilled professionals, the film industry can cultivate a more robust and resilient global production environment. This proactive approach ensures that creative visions can be realized efficiently and sustainably, fostering innovation and economic growth within communities worldwide. Such initiatives underscore the power of collaboration in overcoming industry hurdles, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and interconnected cinematic future.