The Georgia Film Academy (GFA) is partnering with one of metro Atlanta’s biggest movie studios to provide education and workforce training to a new generation of film and television industry professionals.
GFA announced earlier this month that it will offer courses in a “state-of-the-art” facility beginning in fall 2025 for students interested in working in the entertainment industry.
The 32,000-square-foot learning space will be located at the former site of a General Motors assembly plant adjacent to Assembly’s Doraville-based facilities. It will provide what the partners describe as a “hub for innovation, sustainability and public engagement in film and television.”
“By integrating our curriculum with Assembly Studios’ world-class facilities, we’re giving students access to real sets, real professionals and real opportunities,” said Scott Votaw, Assistant Vice Chancellor of the Georgia Film Academy, in a press release. “It’s a hands-on experience that will help expand the pipeline of local talent ready to meet the needs of global productions.”
Gray Media executive chairman and CEO Hilton H. Howell Jr. praised the “extraordinary location” and hands-on resources offered to future students. Gray is Assembly’s owner.
“We are genuinely excited about this partnership, which places students right at the doorstep of Assembly Studios,” Howell said. “[The program offers] unparalleled opportunity to thrive in the vibrant film and production world.”
GFA was founded in 2015 to equip students with technical skills, professional connections and production experience. It has partnered with over 30 Georgia colleges and universities and with local school districts to offer professional certifications in film, television, live production, streaming and esports.
According to the release, several GFA alumni have gone on to successful Georgia-based projects such as “Captain America: Brave New World”, “Megalopolis” and “Creed III.”
Assembly Studios is home to 19 soundstages and four backlot facades. Productions shot there include Peacock’s “Fight Night” and CBS’s “Beyond the Gates.”
Assembly Studios vice president of studio operations Justin Campbell said the partnership is a testament to the strength of Georgia’s film industry.
“Assembly Studios was built to be more than a production facility; it’s a destination where creativity and community come together,” Campbell said. “Partnering with the Georgia Film Academy allows us to open our doors to students who will become the creators, technicians and visionaries of tomorrow.”
Classes will begin Aug. 18.
