Applications Open
The COOL Cooperative's two-year Film Tech Fellowship Program uplifts the next generation of film artists and innovators. It offers hands-on instruction in all aspects of film production using industry-standard equipment, one-on-one mentorship, and real-world experience through professional projects. The curriculum instills the artistic, technical, and business skills needed to succeed as leaders in the competitive modern film industry.This program welcomes a cohort of six fellows, each specializing in a distinct film discipline, creating a powerful interdisciplinary team ready to tackle the challenges of modern filmmaking.
Program Structure
Year One: Technical Advisory and Support
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In your first year, you will serve as a vital Technical Advisor and Support Staff for our in-school teachers and various cohort projects. This foundational year is crucial for developing your leadership, problem-solving, and technical consultation skills. You will:
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Provide hands-on technical assistance to teachers and students.
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Support the implementation and maintenance of film technology and equipment.
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Collaborate with educators to integrate cutting-edge film technology into curriculum.
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Gain experience managing logistical and technical aspects of smaller-scale productions.
​Year Two: Film Production and Department Leadership
The second year is dedicated to the capstone of the fellowship: producing a film. As a fellow, you will step into a leadership role as a Department Head in your respective discipline. This experience is designed to simulate a professional film set, offering unparalleled opportunities to lead a team and execute a significant project from concept to completion.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The COOL Cooperative is committed to providing its fellows with the resources they need to succeed.
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Professional Development Opportunities: Access to workshops, seminars, and networking events designed to advance your career.
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Mentorship: Receive one-on-one guidance from established industry professionals in your discipline.
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Supportive Environment: Be part of a dynamic cohort that fosters collaboration, creativity, and peer-to-peer learning.
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Portfolio Building: Walk away with a significant, professionally produced film project as a department head to showcase your capabilities.
Who Should Apply?
The Film Tech Fellowship is designed for aspiring film professionals who are ready to commit to intensive, hands-on development. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate a strong foundation and passion in one of the key technical or artistic disciplines of filmmaking.
This program is an ideal fit for:
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Emerging Technical Specialists: Individuals with existing experience in areas such as camera operation, sound recording, lighting/electric, and grip, looking to elevate their skills to a professional, department-head level.
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Production Assistants (PAs) Seeking Advancement: PAs or other entry-level production staff who are eager to transition into specialized roles within editing, production management, grip, or electric departments.
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Recent Graduates and Advanced Students: Those who have completed a bachelor's degree or are currently pursuing a master's degree in film, media arts, or a related field, seeking significant practical experience and a launching pad for their professional careers.
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Dedicated Self-Taught Artists: Highly motivated individuals who may not have a traditional degree but can demonstrate equivalent professional potential and a specialized skill set.