FAQs

Where can I find a link to apply to the PA Training + Work Experience program?

How long will the application window be open?

The first application window will be open at 8:00AM Sunday February 22, 2026 and close on Monday March 2, 2026 at 11:59PM. All times are Pacific.

How many people will be accepted into the PA Training + Work Experience program?

I am not sure if my identity/experience qualifies as historically underrepresented. Am I eligible for this program?

Here’s our definition of Historically Underrepresented Community:
- An individual or group of persons who have been relegated to an unimportant or powerless position such that they are prevented from participating fully in decisions affecting their lives. People may experience further marginalization because of their intersecting identities. They are often communities or populations that face systemic economic, political, social, and cultural barriers, many of them embedded in local laws and norms. The term encompasses communities with a shared experience of marginalization stemming from circumstances beyond their control.
Our definition is focused on lived experience and not immutable characteristics. If you feel that your lived experience meets this definition, then please apply!
View the full definition in the Definition of Terms section of the program Guidelines & Criteria.

What if I get stuck or have an issue while completing my application?

Join the FWD team at an Info Session to ask any questions or get technical assistance — RSVP here

How will PA Training participants be selected?

Completed and eligible applications go through a jury evaluation process in order to select participants for the program.

What is a Production Assistant?

Production Assistants are the most common entry-level role in film, television, and creative media. They provide critical support, and are often found assisting on set and in production offices.
PA roles offer a pathway to grow skills, develop connections for future work, and identify areas of interest for future career development into specific departments and trades (example: art department, grip & electric, camera, and more).

How does the program define entry-level?

For the purposes of this program, FWD is defining entry-level as having 15 OR LESS days of paid production work in the film, television, and creative media industry. We define “paid” as receiving hourly minimum wage or more. Unpaid experience, or experience for which you received less than minimum wage would not count as “paid” days.
To put it another way: if you have between 0–15 days of paid production work in the film, television, and creative media industry you are eligible for the program (as long as all other eligibility requirements are also met).

What ages does this program serve?

Applicants to the program must be over 18 years of age. Beyond that, the program is open to all ages!

Do I need a work authorization for this program?

Applicants must have a legal right to work in the United States in order to be eligible for the program.
As the program provides the opportunity to be hired by employer partners, participants will need to be able to complete an I-9 form at time of hire, which confirms both identity and employment authorization.

When will I know if I was selected?

Applicants will be notified mid-March 2026. The program is set to start with a virtual onboarding session for those selected on March 18, 2026.

Who are the employer partners?

FWD is partnering with employers across the state creating commercials, features, shorts, documentaries, narratives, and more.

Is there a hands-on component to the PA training provided?

FWD has partnered with the Power PA Course to provide online asynchronous training. In order to increase statewide access for program participants, the training is entirely online.

How long does the training take to complete?

Participants can complete the online training at their own pace (but within 60 days of program start date in order to remain active in the program). Most folks complete the training within 1–2 weeks, although some have completed within a weekend!

Does the PA Training + Work Experience program guarantee jobs?

No. Washington Filmworks is always working to bring film projects to Washington state, and to support homegrown projects, but we cannot guarantee a certain number of opportunities each year.
Additionally, the program will provide the opportunity to apply for jobs, but employer partners will make all interviewing and hiring decisions.

What does the program offer?

Those selected to participate in the program will receive: online PA training; 1:1 resume and industry support from training partner, Power PA; monthly online professional development sessions, including office hours, panels, and workshops; online forum to connect and network with fellow program participants; the opportunity to apply and interview for jobs with employer partners; up to two paid work experiences; additional mentor support once hired.

How much does it cost to participate in the program?

The PA Training + Work Experience program is provided at no cost to participants.

What makes a strong application?

Be yourself! Jurors appreciate you openly sharing your experiences, background, and personality in your application!

I missed both Info Sessions! Am I able to watch a recording of them?

I have another question! How do I get in touch?

You can reach members of FWD, the Workforce Development Office at Washington Filmworks, at FWD@WashingtonFilmworks.org

How do I keep up to date with all that Washington Filmworks is doing?