Film Florida has announced a partnership with Stage 32, an online education platform for film and television professionals, to provide industry-standard certification programs across the state. The initiative is intended to enhance skills among below-the-line professionals—those who work in technical and support roles on film sets—and aims to make Florida more attractive for production companies.
The program will launch with Film Tampa Bay in October 2025. It comes at a time when new local cash rebates and grants are being introduced to encourage more productions in the area. Training will be delivered through both online courses and in-person workshops led by experienced industry figures such as Brad Carpenter, Leslie Coverse, Shalonda Ware, Korey Pollard, and Miranda Carnessal. Topics covered include line producing, location management, post-production supervision, production accounting, assistant directing, production assistance, coordination, and script supervising.
The effort supports Film Florida’s ongoing goals of workforce development and promoting the state as a year-round destination for filming. Several counties—including Broward (Fort Lauderdale), Palm Beach, Pinellas (St. Pete/Clearwater), Hillsborough (Tampa), and the city of Jacksonville—offer local incentives alongside a statewide sales tax exemption for entertainment industry projects. These incentives total over $30 million across various locations within Florida.
A key part of the Tampa Bay program involves Master Certification for Production Assistants on set protocols and paperwork. Graduates will have access to job opportunities via Stage 32’s Certification Portal and top performers are guaranteed positions on professional productions that qualify them for IMDb credits.
John Lux, Executive Director of Film Florida said: “Film Florida is thrilled to partner with Stage 32 to bring world-class training to our members and elevate Florida’s film industry. By providing access to Stage 32’s certification program, we’re empowering our film commissions and organizations to build a robust, skilled workforce, starting with this exciting program in Tampa Bay.”
Amanda Toney, Managing Director of Stage 32 added: “Stage 32 is honored to collaborate with Film Florida to strengthen Florida’s production ecosystem. After successfully training talent for over 50 film commissions worldwide, including an impactful program with St. Pete/Clearwater, we’re excited to launch this initiative in Tampa Bay and expand opportunities for below-the-line professionals across the state with Film Florida.”
Tyler Martinolich from Film Tampa Bay commented: “Film Tampa Bay is proud to partner with Stage 32 to cultivate local talent and elevate our region as a premier filming destination. This program not only equips aspiring professionals with essential skills but also strengthens our creative economy.”
The first group began training in October 2025; graduates are expected on sets by April 2026. With this move Film Tampa Bay becomes the 51st commission worldwide working with Stage 32.
Stage 32 was established in 2011 as an educational platform connecting over one million creatives globally through online resources including more than three thousand hours of content related to filmmaking craft and business.
Film Florida serves as the main marketing organization representing all sectors of screen production within the state including labor groups and educational bodies.
