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School of Applied Technologies (AT)

Program Profile

Program Description

There are two primary objectives to this certificate program:

• To provide a path to membership in the local film union for studentsseeking that career goal;
• To provide information, training, and hands-on experience for students who may not seek union membership, but who may pursue another path in the domain of electronic media in New Mexico.

Skills needed for success

• Energy, stamina, and the ability to listen.

Certificate and Degree Options

• Film Crew Technician, Certificate of Completion 
• Post Production Technician, Certificate of Completion 

Program Information

This program is a

• Certificate of Completion Program

This program can be completed

• Part-Time or Full-Time

This program is designed for

• Immediate employment

Program can be started

• Any Term

Scheduling Information

• Follow course catalog recommendations to avoid scheduling problems.

Primary course location

• Applied Technologies Center

Program Requirements

Students are expected to purchase textbooks, tools and personal safety equipment.

Physical requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods of time, lift up to 75 lbs., work in a variety of surroundings and conditions.

Other course requirements

•  A cell phone and transportation.

Information for people with felony convictions

• A felony conviction will not prevent entry into the program or employment.

Cost and Financial Aid

Financial Aid considerations

• Financial aid eligible program.

Approximate Cost of Program

Approximately $126 per term; $252 total cost for certificate.

Books and Fees (not including tuition)

• No cost.

Tools

• Approximately $100

Career and Educational Opportunities

This is primarily a job oriented program, but some colleges will transfer credits as part of their BFA in Film.

Educational Opportunities

Many of our courses are transferable to universities and CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges in New Mexico.

Employment Information

90% of graduates who choose to join IATSE Local 480 find employment on signatory movies.

• Gainful Employment information is available from Job Connection Services.

Potential Employers

• Movie crews are hired on a production to production basis. The more movies shot in New Mexico, the more work available.

Prospects for Employment

• Inside & Outside New Mexico – Good

Sample Job Titles

• Production Assistants, Locations, Set construction, Grounds, Set decorator, Set dresser, Props, Wardrobe, Makeup, Hair, Electrical, Grip, Boom operator and mixer, Camera, Special Effects, Medic, EPK, and Craft Services.

Sample Job Duties

• Production Assistants do clerical work in production office, general work on the movie set.

• A locations assistant would scout locations.

• Set construction would build sets.

• Grounds would maintain landscape.

• Set decorator would decorate set.

• Set dresser would dress set.

• Props assistant would take care of props.

• Wardrobe assistant would work with wardrobe department.

• Makeup assistant would work with makeup department.

• Hair assistant would work with hair department.

• Electrical assistant would work with lighting department.

• Grip assistant would work with the grip department.

• Boom operator and mixer would work with the sound department.

• Camera assistant would work with the camera department.

• SFX assistant would work with special effects department.

• Medic would work as a medic on set.

• EPK would interview talent during the shoot.

• Craft services would supply all the movie crafts with snacks and beverages.

Desirable Job Skills (non-technical)

• Punctuality, dependability, stamina, listening, communication, and teamwork.

Other Courses That May Help Employability/Promotability

• OSHA courses

Current pay rates

• Entry level pay for crew members is $15/hour.

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