Los Angeles programs help young people break into the industry

These organizations offer job training programs or internships in the entertainment industry to high school students and recent graduates. Many were founded to promote diversity in film and television. The programs are free, unless otherwise noted.

JOB TRAINING:


Hollywood Cinema Production Resources
Offers two training programs for under-represented youth. Job Track is an 18-month apprenticeship for ages 18 to 25 taught by industry professionals. Students learn trades including set and costume design, camera, makeup, painting, scenic art and special effects. Students can earn college credit. After School Track is a 10-week program that introduces students ages 15 to 18 to various aspects of the crafts of the entertainment industry. (310) 258-0123 or www.hollywoodcpr.org.

Hollywood International Institute
The 13-week Minorities in Media program provides training in computers, digital camera and editing and a four-week internship with a studio or production company. For ages 18 to 28, classes held at downtown L.A. Center Studios. Cost $5,000, scholarships available. Guarantees internships for graduates. (213) 534-3801.

Inner-City Filmmakers
The Summer Program for graduating high school seniors is an introduction to filmmaking and production. Students write, shoot and edit their own films. Classes are held at USC’s School of Cinema-Television. Application required, scholarships available. Job Program places graduates in entry-level jobs at film studios and production companies. (310) 264-3992 or www.innercityfilmmakers.com.

Scriptwriters Network
Ten high school students are selected from a writing contest to participate in the High School Fellowship Program. The students are awarded a one-year membership to Scriptwriters Network, in which they are paired with a mentor who helps them write a short screenplay. Deadline for entries is Oct. 31. Go to www.scriptwritersnetwork.com/hsrech.html or your local city library.

Workplace Hollywood
Refers high school graduates to 32 training programs, including production assistant preparation and the 18-month training programs offered through Hollywood Cinema Production Resources (see above). Helps with job placement when training is complete. (323) 467-2525 or www.workplacehollywood.org.

INTERNSHIPS:

Emma L. Bowen Foundation
Selects minority students to work in paid internships for media companies during summers and school breaks from the end of their junior year in high school until they graduate from college. Companies can opt to hire students after college graduation. Requires application, 3.0 G.P.A. and plans to attend four-year college. (818) 655-5708 or www.emmabowenfoundation.com.

Y.E.S. To Jobs
Exposes minority high school and college students to career options behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Provides entry-level summer jobs at record companies, retail stores, radio and television stations, film and production companies, public relations and entertainment law firms. Requires application, minimum 2.8 G.P.A. and teacher recommendation. (310) 358-4922.