The PA Academy Call Sheet
Everything you need to know about the workshop
The PA Academy in a Nutshell
The PA Academy is a two-day, boot-camp-style Production Assistant job training workshop for industry newbies and those looking to step up in their career from a day player to core crew.
Created to help you succeed in crafting a career in the film business, we cover commercials, corporate videos, reality TV, music videos, indie film, television series, and studio features.
This workshop serves as a fundraiser for Atlanta Film Society and Georgia Production Partnership, supporting education and outreach, and film tax incentive lobbying efforts.
2019 marked the 10th anniversary of The PA Academy. Since then, we’ve trained over 2000 attendees from around the country.
The PA Academy gave me an internship opportunity that developed my career with the camera department. It’s educational and prepares individuals to work on set. I recommend Linda’s courses to anyone wanting to expand their interests in production.
I’ve worked 4 jobs now, and I am IN LOVE with PA work and production life. Every time I set foot on-set, PA’s with more experience look to me to take the lead because of all the knowledge and materials you gave us! Everyone on the crew is always shocked at how green I actually am.
If not for your program and Facebook group posts I would not have had the opportunity to network and develop lasting friendships with some of the most creative people in the industry. And for that, I wanted to express my most sincere appreciation. Thank you!
I learned SO MUCH. You really clarified a lot of things and the class was a wonderful reality check and learning experience. You really know your stuff and are a great resource and asset to the ATL film community. It’s nice to have someone who genuinely cares so much.
All the Bennies Attendees Receive
Linda is a strong advocate for her students career success. She works tirelessly to give them the experience, support, tools, and network they need to start out in this business. She lobbies local production companies to offer internships to graduates, indie film crews to round out their no/low budget productions with less experienced staff, and she invites former instructors and industry members to offer paid entry-level positions for former attendees, ready for their “big break.”
Job Opportunities
We’ll share volunteer and paid work opportunities for at least two years through our secret Facebook page.
Networking
The opportunity to network with other potential crew members and industry experts.
Resume Prep Tips
Learn how to prepare a FILM resume to actually get a job in this industry.
Advice from Industry Experts
All PA Academy speakers work in the industry, so you’ll have a pulse on what it’s like in the real world.
Registration Details
Feb 22 & 23, 2025
Registration Opens in December- TIME: 8am – 8:30pm
- LOCATION:
- TBD
- You must be 18+ to enroll.
- Scholarships Available
- Sign-up and register on Atlanta Film Society’s Site.
June 8 & 9, 2024
Registration Closed- TIME: 8am – 8:30pm
- LOCATION:
- Electric Owl Studios
- You must be 18+ to enroll.
- Scholarships Available
- Sign-up and register on Atlanta Film Society’s Site.
Aug 10 & 11, 2024
Registration Closed- TIME: 8am – 8:30pm
- LOCATION:
- Electric Owl Studios
- You must be 18+ to enroll.
- Scholarships Available
- Sign-up and register on Atlanta Film Society’s Site.
Nov 16 & 17, 2024
Registration Closed- TIME: 8am – 8:30pm
- LOCATION:
- Electric Owl Studios
- You must be 18+ to enroll.
- Scholarships Available
- Sign-up and register on Atlanta Film Society’s Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Take notes.)
Can I transfer to another bootcamp if I can't make the one I signed up for?
Yes. If you reach out in advance of class, and before the stated refund deadlines on the registration page.
I’m an older student and transferring from another career, is this workshop right for me?
Attendees are a mix of high school graduates, college students, mid-career transfers, and retirees. Although the job of production assistant is an entry-level position, there are jobs in the industry that translate more easily from other careers. It’s a young person’s game due to long hours and physical demands, but by the end of the bootcamp, you’ll know whether you’re up for the challenge or not and where to start.
I have a medical condition that prohibits some activities, or requires special consideration, can I still attend?
Yes, but reach out to us in advance of registering to discuss any restrictions, needs, etc. so that we can be sure to accommodate you.
I don’t live in Georgia, will this still be relevant to me?
Absolutely. PAs drive and fly in from around the country for this training. However, most of the job opportunities offered to attendees who finish the course are in Georgia.
Will I get placed in a job after the workshop?
This workshop prepares you for work, but we do not guarantee you a job or offer job placement. We offer volunteer and paid job opportunities for up to two years. Each PA Academy class gets its own secret Facebook group page. Jobs are listed there. The page is also used for mentorship, sharing resources, and networking amongst the class attendees.
What are the hours of The PA Academy?
Saturday and Sunday from 8am – 8pm each day. It is not a sleep over. If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. Just like a film set, you can’t come an hour late to work or leave early. You must attend both days in full to receive it’s benefits.
Must attendees really be 18? My child is very mature.
Yes. This course is adult education and job training. It’s not a summer film camp. We discuss very adult topics not meant for those under 18. This is real-world training that allows you to get a job tomorrow. Plus we curse a lot. Wait ’til you’re 18. We promise, it will be worth it.
I have food allergies, do I need to bring my own food and snacks?
If your allergies are life threatening, i.e., you can’t be in a room with peanuts — reach out and let us know immediately. The catering company knows how to handle most food allergies, and provides gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Do I need to be a film school graduate to have a career in the industry?
We’re all big fans of education, so get that degree if you can afford it. But you’ll learn more in these two days than you did in film school. Film school is about theory. This training is about the hard and soft skills of being a PA, no matter the department. We get you job ready.
Is the workshop only for PAs?
Heck no! This workshop is for anyone and everyone looking to work in the business, from camera and G&E to wardrobe and craft services. We’ve even had up and coming directors and actors join in, to learn how bigger sets run and see what it’s like behind the scenes. All the same protocol, terminology, and hiring practices exist no matter where you start your career.