The Digital Media Arts class at Wenatchee Valley Technical Skill Center (WVTech) has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Film Workforce Development (FWD) to purchase three new video cameras and monitors. These cameras are the same models used by NCWLIFE Channel, a local television station.

The FWD Funding Initiative is designed to invest in community-led motion picture industry workforce development efforts that serve historically underrepresented communities. Eric Link, the Digital Media Arts (DMA) advisor, believes that the new cameras will provide students with hands-on experience using professional-grade equipment, helping them prepare for careers in the film and television industry. 

"Many of my students keep their videography jobs after they graduate, so these cameras provide a way into this field of work for my students," Link said.

White in the DMA program students get the opportunity to learn on the job through paid work experiences filming Wenatchee Wild Hockey, NCWLIFE athletic coverage, Stage Kids WA, and Livestreaming The Wenatchee Symphony Concerts and other Livestream events. Several DMA alumni have already secured full-time jobs in the field with these local groups.

The new cameras will be used for a variety of projects, including livestreaming local concerts, sporting events, and other events. Link says the cameras will also be used to record student productions and create content for the program's website and social media channels.

Jamie Howell, owner of Howell at the Moon Productions and a member of the DMA advisory board notified Link of the grant opportunity and encouraged him to apply "This grant will allow us to continue to provide our students with the best possible education and training," Link said. We are grateful to FWD for their support." 

For more information on the Digital Media Arts program at WVTech Center, go to their website