Editor's Note: The following is a press release from Tompkins Cortland Community College.
DRYDEN, N.Y. – Tompkins Cortland Community College is hosting a two-day training program for students interested in becoming a production assistant in the entertainment industry. P.A. Bootcamp is based in California, but is coming to Dryden the weekend of February 24-25 to work with 30 students from around the region, including 10 each from Tompkins Cortland and SUNY Cortland.
P.A. Bootcamp has been in business for more than 10 years, providing intensive job training program for those interested in working in the film, TV, and commercial industry.
“I’m very excited we are able to bring this fantastic training program to campus to work with our students,” said Chris Xaver, the chair of Tompkins Cortland’s Digital Cinema, Broadcast Production, and Communication and Media Arts degree programs. “A production assistant is typically the first step into the entertainment industry and it ties in perfectly with the film and video productions that are being produced now in our region and across New York State. This training also nicely complements the education these students are receiving here and at our colleague institutions across the region.”
The P.A. Bootcamp is led by “drill sergeants” including Jody Brockway, who has a long history in the entertainment industry, including eight years as Vice President of Movies and Mini Series at NBC.
“This is a great opportunity for our students, and the students coming from other colleges in the region,” said Xaver. “In one weekend they will gather so much practical experience, the kind of experience you normally would have to go to Hollywood to earn. It’s thrilling to be able to bring Hollywood to us!”
