The Durham Region Film and Television Industry Career Fair provided a platform for young people to explore diverse job opportunities in the film and television sector, bridging the gap between talent and industry demand.
Organized by the Durham Region Film Commission in partnership with local educational institutions including Durham College, the career fair on March 25 brought together industry experts and students.
The event featured workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to clarify the pathway to success in the film and television industry. The panel discussion included representatives from prominent industry unions such as Night Day, IATSE 873, IATSE Local 667, IAC for 101, ACTRA, and DGC Ontario.
Speaking during the panel discussion, Eileen Kennedy, the commission’s specialist for creative industries, said the event offers students a chance to interact one-on-one with professionals “through vendor booths, mock production sets, and gain valuable insights into the unique industry.”
Kennedy encouraged students and aspiring professionals to seize employment opportunities within Ontario’s film and television industry, which invested more than $3.15 billion across numerous provincial communities and provided jobs to over 45,000 individuals in 2023.
Mike Harwood, national director of technical support and development at William F. White International Inc., said the entertainment industry offers a variety of jobs for people with varied interests. “The entertainment industry is where people from electrical, accounting, wardrobe, caterers, chefs — you name it — [have a chance to succeed],” Harwood said.
Another panellist, Beth Nobbs, training coordinator at IATSE Local 667, an organization representing camera professionals, underscored the importance of specialized training programs for entry-level positions. Nobbs highlighted the Camera Trainee Program as a key initiative that opens doors for newcomers to gain hands-on experience and enter the industry with a solid foundation.
Barry Waite, executive dean of the Faculty of Media, Art, and Design at Durham College, noted the strong interest among students in writing, technical, and production roles within the industry. He encouraged students to also explore opportunities on the business side of production.