Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1531981
Spring 2025 – LOCAL695.COM 41 images in a multi-display environment. Both the second and third modules of the BRIC Grant training revolved around this platform in separate two-day training sessions, with our training partners conducting the classes at their facility in Santa Clarita, CA. As Local 695 video engineer members who actively do this work on set, the team went above and beyond to ensure the participants were set up for success. They even graciously coordinated additional half-day training for participants who needed the extra support. The first WATCHOUT module was academic, focusing on a common framework of understanding, terminology, and on-set communication. For the final module of the training, the cohort was able to put all their training together. The group struck a magnesium LED wall build, built an aluminum wall (where each panel was approximately seven pounds heavier), and then mapped images across the panels to create and simulate a true virtual production environment. All in, the participants spent almost a month focusing solely on Local 695's virtual production workflow jurisdictions, resulting in certifications for the entire cohort! The goal of this training has always been to leave the cohort with the skills to begin working in virtual production workflows, but the work is not yet done. While Local 695 is one of the first BRIC Grant partners to complete its cohort training under the grant, we are dedicated to supporting the cohort over the remaining two years of the grant with trainings specific to building upon the tools they learned in the three initial modules. As representatives for the virtual production field under Local 695, this community will continue to help educate the industry and serve as an example as to the caliber of what Local 695 members are capable of. With time, we hope to be awarded more grants so we may continue to develop skills training for many more members, protecting jurisdictions and work in California. A huge congratulations to the cohorts for their hard work and accomplishments thus far. They devoted themselves to something entirely new and have certainly raised the standard. After so many intensive days together, the cohort has organically become a community of dedicated, supportive, and good people. They consistently asked excellent questions, keeping the instructors on their toes, and tapped into their unique skill sets or expertise to aid one another and the development of the curriculums. This shared level of ingenuity and curiosity is what continues to spur on the advancements of virtual production, and we are pleased to represent a cohort of incredible workers adding value to this field. A big thank you to our training partners for their shared mission in furthering the expertise that has garnered Local 695 its reputation for excellence. Finally, thank you to the BRIC Foundation and all the associated affiliates that made this grant possible. As work picks up with the start of the new year, we look forward to interfacing with more productions on virtual production solutions and expanding our goal for industry security.