Written by Joe Jackson on Nov 9, 2021. Posted in General Interest

New Mexico’s Film Office and Department of Veterans Affairs unite for workforce development scheme

Representatives from the New Mexico Film Office (NMFO) joined forces with the New Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs (NMDVS) to involve the state’s veterans in the film and television industry. As part of an innovative Digital Lunch and Learn series, the two groups met on 5 November 2021 to discuss Operation Soundstage (OSS) and its perks for qualifying New Mexican veterans.

 “Operation Soundstage is a peerless, forward-thinking workforce development program for New Mexico veterans to utilize transferrable skills and kickstart their career in the state’s film and television industry,” stated Amber Dodson, director of the New Mexico Film Office. “As demand for crew continues to increase, the time is now for New Mexico Veterans to be a part of this thriving industry, helping to scale up our workforce, and launch new life-long careers.”

The OSS workforce development scheme is a part of the Film Crew Advancement Program (FCAP). However, it offers extra perks for qualifying New Mexican veterans. In providing a fast track to film industry union membership, the OSS presents waived joining fees and required hours for members of IATSE Local 480, a chapter of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

It also offers waived fees for joining the local union Teamsters Local 492. New Mexico veterans who are interested in a career in the film and television industry and possess transferrable skills, or are interested in advancing their career in a specific craft department, may participate in these schemes.

The online series organised by the NMDVS offers an opportunity for New Mexican veterans to learn about innovative programs and services available to them and their families. The New Mexico Film Office will be announcing training opportunities for entry-level film industry positions later this month.