Local 706 - The Artisan

Summer 2018

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6 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2018 For many years now, I have talked and written on the subject of education for our members … to never stop learning and to stay ahead of the curve. To that end, Local 706 has made it a priority to make available comprehensive skills training for both our make-up artists and hair stylists. Each year, we utilize Contract Services/Local 706-sponsored classes for our IER "Roster" members through their "Skills Training" programs, or promote in-house education for all our mem- bers regardless of Roster status; this includes our Theater, Theme Park, Commercial and Network Television members also. We also have urged our trainees to take the journeyman classes, which are offered each year to both make-up artists and hair stylists. We strongly believe that education is a cor- nerstone of our existence. As new members join our Local each year, many of our industry icons who brought culture and history to our craft are either sadly passing on or are retiring and moving on with their lives. With their exit so goes their knowledge and skills, leaving a void of their expertise to pass on. We now have many members who have not been fortunate enough to be able to have the extensive training that many in our ranks received from apprenticeship programs or learning from their peers. Fortunately, they do have options … Now, most all members have the opportunity to be taught in all facets of their craft by some of the most talented and award winning artists and stylists around, our own members. Whether you are new and are eager to learn or an old hand just wanting a little refresher course, please take advantage of what we have to offer. I am a firm believer that the more prepared you are, whether on the Roster working as a department head, a key, a third or a "day player," or working elsewhere in the industry, the better your chances are for getting the job in the first place, and once there, keeping it. Many of us, including myself, were fortunate to have worked during a time when so much work was available that there was plenty to go around, but times have changed. Even with production coming back to LA, and Gov. Brown signing another five-year extension, there still are going to be people scrambling for the many jobs available and the competition will be intense and you will need to be at the top of your LOCAL PERSPECTIVE game. To keep yourself in the mix, education, along with practice, is the key. Take any and every class that may help to improve your skills. Along with those practical skills, hone your people skills also, for your getting the job can also depend in part on your being one who your peers, the "tal- ent" and production likes having around. The bottom line is, you just can't live on your laurels. You must do better if you are going to survive as a viable part of the workforce. I know it isn't easy, but I have faith in all our members' abilities … I know they can do anything they put their minds to. In our industry, there always has been and always will be the unknown lurking around the corner. Life is an adventure. None of us are crystal ball readers, and we can't be prepared for everything, but we can use com- mon sense and plan for some things … we know there is liable to be an earthquake so we can have some things put away in a shed … we know there could be a job stoppage of some kind in our careers so it would be prudent to try and put some money away … we also know or should know that in most instances, jobs are not going to be offered to us just because we are nice. We are going to get those jobs because we are a value and prepared for anything and everything that we are asked to do. I know that for many reading this article, I am preaching to the choir, and you have done or already are fol- lowing the same path I am suggesting. But, if what I say helps even a few of our members to better their careers, I feel I have done my job. An old saying comes to mind by the American orator and politician William Jennings Bryan who sort of ties up all that I am saying. That is, "Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." Please enjoy this quarterly issue of The Artisan. Sincerely and Fraternally, by Tommy Cole Business Representative, I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 We strongly believe that education is a cornerstone of our existence. " "

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