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Carbondale Today
By the People, for the People
SIU Offers Free TV, Film Production Assistant Training
The 80-hour program prepares participants to work as production assistants in Illinois' growing film and TV industry.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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Southern Illinois University Carbondale is offering a free, 80-hour weekend training program to prepare participants to work as production assistants in the region's growing film and television industry. The program runs for four consecutive weekends starting March 20 and includes a graduation ceremony on May 3. Participants who complete the full program are eligible for a stipend.
Why it matters
The training program aims to strengthen Illinois' film and TV production workforce by providing free, hands-on training to aspiring production assistants. As the industry continues to grow in the state, this program helps ensure a pipeline of qualified local talent to support productions.
The details
The SI Film and TV Workforce Training Program covers a range of production assistant skills over the 80-hour curriculum. Participants must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, be Illinois residents, and agree to complete future employment surveys. The inaugural 2025 program trained 46 people, and organizers expect a similar number to be accepted this year. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and The Illinois Film Office are providing funding for the initiative.
- The training program runs for four consecutive weekends starting on March 20, 2026.
- The graduation ceremony will take place on May 3, 2026.
The players
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
A public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois, known for its strong film and television production programs.
Holly Sparkman
The program director of business operations for SIU's Office of Innovation and Economic Development, overseeing the training program.
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
A state agency providing funding for the production assistant training program.
The Illinois Film Office
A state agency also providing funding for the production assistant training program.
What they’re saying
“The inaugural program in spring 2025 gave 46 people the training and tools to become successful television and film production assistants. Organizers anticipate a similar number will be accepted into the program this year.”
— Holly Sparkman, Program Director of Business Operations, SIU Office of Innovation and Economic Development (webqradio.com)
What’s next
Interested participants must complete the online application soon, as space is limited in the program.
The takeaway
This free training program is an important investment in developing Illinois' local film and television production talent pipeline, helping to support the state's growing creative industries and provide career opportunities for aspiring production assistants.
