Film Florida has partnered with Stage 32, an online education platform for film and television professionals, to launch a new training initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s below-the-line workforce. The partnership will provide Stage 32’s Certification Program to Film Florida members, non-members, film commissions, and industry professionals throughout the state.
The program began in October 2025 in Tampa Bay and is designed to support local cash rebates and grants intended to attract more productions to Florida. It offers both online courses and in-person workshops led by experienced industry figures such as Emmy-nominated Post-Production Producer Brad Carpenter, Post-Production Supervisor Leslie Coverse, Senior Production Finance Manager Shalonda Ware from Paramount Studios, DGA Assistant Director Korey Pollard, and Location Manager Miranda Carnessal.
Training will cover key roles including line producing, location management, post-production supervision, production accounting, assistant director positions, production assistants, coordinators, and script supervisors. As part of the initiative in Tampa Bay, production assistants can earn Master Certification in on-set protocols and paperwork. Graduates are added to Stage 32’s Certification Portal for job opportunities across Florida and beyond. Top graduates are guaranteed work on professional projects that count toward IMDb credits.
This initiative aligns with Film Florida’s focus on statewide workforce development and marketing efforts to promote the state as a year-round destination for film and television production. Local incentives are available in several counties—including Broward (Fort Lauderdale), Palm Beach, Pinellas (St. Pete/Clearwater), Hillsborough (Tampa), as well as Jacksonville—and combine with the state’s entertainment industry sales tax exemption. More than $30 million in incentives are available statewide with per-project caps up to $2 million in certain areas.
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 stated: “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 of 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.”
Film Tampa Bay becomes the 51st film commission globally within Stage 32’s network—joining other U.S. commissions like Pennsylvania and Texas as well as international partners such as Costa Rica and Poland.
More information about discounts for participants is available through Film Florida.
Stage 32 was launched in 2011 as an online platform connecting over one million creatives worldwide through education programs that include more than 3,500 hours of content on film craft and business topics.
Film Florida serves as the chief marketing organization for TV, film, and digital media industries across the state representing all aspects of screen production including labor groups and educational institutions.
