RVC Offers Tuition-Free Film and TV Workforce Training for Fall 2026

RVC Offers Tuition-Free Film and TV Workforce Training for Fall 2026

• Students
• 10/02/2026

Rock Valley College is accepting applications for its Fall 2026 Film & TV Workforce Training program, offering Illinois residents an opportunity to gain hands-on skills for entry-level careers in the motion picture and television industry.

The tuition-free program is supported by a grant from the Illinois Film Office through the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. Students who successfully complete the training will also receive a completion stipend.

The 80-hour program will include classroom instruction, field trips and hands-on film production exercises designed to prepare participants for entry-level production assistant and other support roles. Training will take place from mid-October through mid-November and will include weekday evening classes and some weekend sessions.

Participants will learn about a variety of careers behind the camera and gain experience with the terminology, equipment and practices used on professional film sets. The program also connects students with working industry professionals and includes a mock film set where participants can apply what they have learned.

"A lot of people don't realize how many careers exist behind the camera," said Lead Instructor Lonnie Iske. "IFO trains students as PAs, the entry point for almost everyone in this industry, and shows them where that can lead. Our mentors are working professionals in camera, grip and electric, directing, and more, so students get honest, current insight into each path."

Former student and graduate Gabriel Zahn said the program provided a valuable introduction to the production process.

"I can't imagine going on a film set without having gone through IFO," Zahn said. "IFO teaches you everything you need to know about how to be a useful PA on a film set, along with the small things that go a long way, like film set lingo, how to use a walkie-talkie and how to wrap a stinger."

Zahn said the program also gives participants an opportunity to learn about different departments through guest instructors who work in the industry.

Jerry LaBuy, MFA, program manager, said the training is designed to create pathways into the film and television industry while supporting the growth of the local workforce.

"The IFOxRVC Film and TV Workforce Training class is so important because it opens the door to opportunity," LaBuy said. "It gives anyone the hands-on skills, knowledge and industry connections they need to start meaningful careers in Rockford's growing film and television industry. That in turn helps grow the depth for production within the entire state of Illinois."

The program is open to Illinois residents age 18 and older. No prior film or television experience is required. Ideal candidates include young professionals entering the industry and adults looking to enter or return to the creative workforce.

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a current Illinois resident
• Have a valid driver's license
• Be a high school graduate or have a GED
• Be legally eligible to work in the United States

Selected participants are required to attend all 80 hours of training. Participants who miss more than one class or field trip will not be able to continue in the program. Students are responsible for transportation to and from classes and Rockford-area field trips. Transportation will be provided by chartered bus for the Chicago-area trip.

Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are due by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by Oct. 16.

Those who are not selected for the Fall 2026 cohort are encouraged to apply for future sessions.

For questions about the application process, contact Program Manager Jerry LaBuy at [email protected]. Include "IFOxRVC Workforce Training" in the subject line.

The Film & TV Workforce Training program is supported by a grant from the Illinois Film Office through the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity.

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