Television Academy Foundation and Best Buy Partner to Train LA High School Students for Production Jobs

The Television Academy Foundation is teaming up with Best Buy to launch a free 10-week after-school program that will train Los Angeles-area high school students for entry-level production roles such as production assistants, coordinators, and assistant directors. Funded by the consumer electronics retailer, the initiative aims to open doors to the entertainment industry for young people who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities. The program reflects a growing push to diversify Hollywood’s talent pipeline by equipping students with practical skills and industry knowledge before they enter the workforce. By targeting high schoolers, the foundation and Best Buy are addressing a critical gap in early career development and creating a direct pathway into production jobs that are often learned on the job. Students will gain hands-on experience and mentorship, positioning them to compete for roles in a competitive field. This partnership underscores how corporate funding can support workforce development in creative industries, benefiting both the local community and the broader entertainment ecosystem. As demand for skilled production staff continues to rise, programs like this could become a model for industry-education collaboration across the country.