Press Releases
WCNY Entertainment Academy Secures Third-Year Grant to Expand Workforce Training in Film and Television Production from Empire State Development
by
May 14, 2026
WCNY, Central New York’s public communications organization, is proud to announce the continuation of its innovative WCNY Entertainment Academy, now entering its third year of grant-funded workforce development programming. This milestone reinforces WCNY’s commitment to building a diverse, skilled talent pipeline for the growing film, television, and digital media industries across the region.
Since its inception, the WCNY Entertainment Academy has provided hands-on, career-focused training to underserved adults ages 25–39, equipping participants with industry-relevant skills across multiple production disciplines. The third-year grant will allow the Academy to expand its reach, deepen training opportunities, and strengthen pathways to employment.
“This continued investment affirms the impact of the Academy on both individuals and the regional creative economy,” said Mitch Gelman, President and CEO of WCNY. “We are not only training talent—we are creating access, equity, and long-term career opportunities in an industry that has historically lacked a broad range of representation.”
“Receiving third-year support from Empire State Development reinforces the strength and impact of WCNY’s commitment to growing the entertainment industry in Central New York,” said Carol Opee-Stelios, Vice President of Human Resources and Workforce Development at WCNY. “This continued investment allows us to expand opportunities for creators, foster innovation, and strengthen our regional economy.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York’s film and television industry depends on a strong, skilled and diverse workforce, and the WCNY Entertainment Academy is helping build that talent pipeline in Central New York. Through the CREW grant, Empire State Development is proud to support hands-on training that connects participants with the skills, certifications and industry experience needed to pursue sustainable careers in film, television and digital media.”
Empire State Development’s CREW grant program supports workforce development and training initiatives that prepare New Yorkers for careers in the film and television industry. By funding hands-on instruction, industry-recognized certifications, mentorship and job placement support, the program helps build a skilled, diverse talent pipeline that can meet the needs of productions across New York State.
Expanded Training Opportunities:
The third-year program will offer comprehensive instruction in four core areas of media production:
• Location & Scenic Design
• Costume Design & Animation
• Post-Production & Animation
• Production Operations & Set Support
Participants will also receive industry-recognized certifications and foundational workforce skills, including:
• OSHA 10 Safety Training
• CPR and Workplace Readiness
• Respect in the Workplace
• Computer Literacy for Production Systems
The Academy emphasizes practical, on-set experience and direct engagement with industry professionals. Graduates benefit from:
• Job placement support and defined career pathways
• Continuing education opportunities
• Mentorship from media and production experts
• Access to WCNY’s production facilities and professional networks
The program requires all applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and proficient in reading and writing in English, ensuring readiness for workforce placement and industry standards.
With film and television production expanding across New York State, the WCNY Entertainment Academy plays a critical role in preparing a local workforce to meet industry demand. The program supports economic development while providing life-changing opportunities for individuals seeking sustainable careers.
WCNY is a public media organization serving Central New York, committed to education, community engagement, and workforce innovation. Through initiatives like the Entertainment Academy, WCNY continues to lead in developing inclusive pathways into emerging industries.
For more information or to complete an application, visit wcny.org/academy.
For media inquiries, please contact Lauren Easton at lauren.easton@wcny.org or (585) 797-4314.
About WCNY:
WCNY was founded in 1965 as The Educational Television Council of Central New York. Today, it is a public communications organization that produces content across multiple platforms, including television and radio, dynamic web and targeted email content, the WCNY CONNECT magazine, and social media. Through its media platforms, in-person and virtual events, WCNY brings local coverage and educational services to Central New Yorkers. WCNY operates four digital, pledge-free broadcast channels and three radio stations. Classic FM is one of the few radio stations in the world dedicated to locally programmed classical music, and Pulso Central is Central New York’s first Spanish-language radio station.
About Empire State Development:
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
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