By Mary Sisk
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Rock Valley College will offer free job training for those interested in the film industry starting in January 2023.
The Illinois Film Office and RVC are collaborating to encourage more Rockfordians to pursue a career in production by supplying free, 80-hour, intensive training courses for those 18 and older.
“We are excited to offer this exciting new initiative that will give participants real-world and hands-on experiences,” said Jerry LaBuy, program manager and instructor at Rock Valley College, in a news release “This free training will prepare them for production assistant and other related high-demand jobs in Illinois television and film production.”
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RVC also hopes to garner interest from women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, people of color and other marginalized people groups.
“We are looking for area residents of all backgrounds who want to build a career in Illinois’ growing television and film industry,” LaBuy said. “The industry is growing here in Rockford and in all areas outside of Chicago, and we need to have skilled workers to meet that increasing demand.”
Applications are open, and courses begin Jan. 11 and conclude with a ceremony on Feb. 4.
How to apply/requirements
- Must be 18 or older
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Those interested can apply here
This article is by Mary Sisk. Email her at msisk@rockrivercurrent.com or follow her on Instagram at @maryrrcurrent