About FTM

Film Training Manitoba (FTM) is a non-for-profit charity and our goal is to develop a highly skilled and adaptable workforce to support the activities of Manitoba’s film industry. FTM partners with Manitoba’s secondary and post-secondary schools, Manitoba film festivals, unions, production companies, associations, and a wide collection of industry stakeholders.

FTM collaborates with members of the film industry to identify the training needs within the community. With this information we offer practical, skill-based training that is targeted where labour gaps occur.

Our Vision

To provide world-class training and workforce develop to support the growth of Manitoba’s dynamic film industry.

Our Mission

Founded in 1999, FTM is a member of the Province of Manitoba’s Sector Council program and we provide high caliber workforce development programs to sustain Manitoba’s dynamic film and television industry. FTM works closely with the industry to identify training needs within Manitoba.

Core Values

Practical. Innovative. Industry-driven.

Training

FTM’s online courses make training easily accessible! Through our website, FTM offers the basic courses for membership to ICG Local 669, and the Director’s Guild of Canada – Manitoba District Council.

FTM workshops are designed to offer Manitoba crews the opportunity to train for advancement within the industry. We deliver practical workshops that provide entry-level and advanced skill development for Manitoba crewmembers and we also collaborate with labour organizations and industry partners to put together workshops and presentations that provide our local crewmembers with advanced training and professional development opportunities.

FTM also offers extensive training for the development of writers, directors and producers, and works closely with ACTRA MB to develop courses for Manitoba’s acting community.

FTM recognizes the value of working with established institutions to lay the foundation for the future by partnering with post-secondary institutions.

Work Experience

FTM partners with local production companies to offer work experience opportunities. We work closely with IATSE 856 and DGC Manitoba to assess candidates applying to our work experience training programs and determine the level of training needed. All work experience opportunities occur within active film environments such as film sets, production offices or related facilities.

FTM’s wage subsidized work placements give interns the experience and professional growth they need to sustain a career in the film industry.

Our crew mentorship program offers mid to advanced-level training for crewmembers that want to move to a higher position in their department.

We provide subsidies to production companies that upgrade crewmembers who are advancing to a more senior position on a production. FTM works with these production companies to identify eligible crew and develop a training plan for each individual.

Outreach

FTM recognizes the importance of community outreach and we frequently liaise with educational and training institutions, as well as various organizations, to build support for Manitoba’s film and television industry. We conduct year-round visits to trade schools, universities, colleges and high schools to provide an opportunity for individuals to learn more about a career in film and television.

FTM staff is also available for career guidance and one-on-one consultations. Anyone can book an appointment with a training coordinator to discuss mapping his or her path to success in Manitoba’s film industry.

Sector Councils and What We Do

Film Training Manitoba is a member of the sector council program funded by the Province of Manitoba’s Economic Development and Training.

What Are Sector Councils?

Sector Councils are organizations dedicated to human resource development.

Sector Councils bring industry partners together to develop human resources solutions that are specific to their sector or industry. By acting as a bridge between different companies sector councils address human resources challenges, which benefit all industry partners. Having industry work with sector councils helps employers and workers by creating solutions that are tailored to the community’s needs and more responsive to the industry. The Manitoba government recognizes that a skilled, adaptable and productive workforce is essential for employers to complete locally and in the global market.

The Sector Council Program supports organizations in key Manitoba sectors to develop and deliver workforce training for new and existing employees to support business growth and prosperity.

With funding provided by Education and Training, these organizations:

  • Consult with sector employers to identify immediate, short and long term skills and labour gaps and develop strategies to fill those gaps;
  • Provide short-term training for existing workers to meet business goals such as increased productivity and competitiveness, new product and process development and increased market access;
  • Provide training and other supports to assist entrepreneurs to grow their business;
  • Advise post-secondary institutions on curriculum development and updates;
  • Provide school-to-work bridge training to ensure graduates have the skills required by employers;
  • Work with other organizations to inform Manitobans, including youth, Indigenous people, newcomers and those with disabilities about jobs and careers in their sectors; and
  • Promote sector jobs and careers through career development activities in schools and through social media.

Film Training Manitoba – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respectful Workplace Policy

1. Purpose

Film Training Manitoba (FTM) reaffirms its commitment to fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and a respectful workplace across Manitoba’s film and television industry. As an industry-serving, training, and capacity-building organization, FTM recognizes its legal, ethical, and moral responsibility to create a supportive environment where all participants, staff, trainers, contractors, and partners are valued and treated with dignity.

FTM is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive community that reflects the people of Manitoba, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples, newcomers, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and other underrepresented groups.

2. Principles

This policy supports FTM’s commitment to embedding diversity, equity, human dignity, and respectful relationships into all organizational practices. FTM believes that inclusive training environments and workplaces strengthen our industry and enhance creativity, innovation, and the professional development of all Manitobans seeking careers in film.

3. Policy Statement

FTM is committed to:

  • Upholding the principles of dignity, diversity, equality, equity, and respect.
  • Ensuring fairness, inclusiveness, integrity, and ethical conduct in all decisions and interactions.
  • Fostering a sense of belonging for all participants, staff, and partners.
  • Supporting healthy and respectful professional dialogue, including diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
  • Recognizing diversity as essential to strengthening Manitoba’s screen-based workforce and industry.

FTM demonstrates this commitment through its mission, strategic initiatives, partnerships, training programs, community outreach, and ongoing equity and inclusion efforts.

4. Scope of this Policy

This policy applies to all individuals who engage with Film Training Manitoba, including:

  • Staff and contractors
  • Board members
  • Trainers and facilitators
  • Participants in any FTM course, workshop, or program
  • Volunteers
  • Industry partners, employers, and sponsors
  • Visitors, service providers, and external collaborators

This policy complements existing FTM policies and Manitoba legislation related to human rights, accessibility, discrimination, harassment, and workplace health and safety. It should be read alongside any relevant internal procedures, codes of conduct, or guidelines.

5. Responsibilities

A. Responsibilities of All Members of the FTM Community

Everyone engaged with FTM is responsible for contributing to an inclusive and respectful environment. All individuals are expected to:

  • Foster a culture that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
  • Recognize and address biases, stereotypes, and assumptions that may limit opportunities.
  • Engage with others respectfully and with openness to diverse perspectives.
  • Help maintain environments free from discrimination, harassment, bullying, or intimidation.
  • Elevate and include the voices and experiences of underrepresented groups.

B. Responsibilities of FTM Staff, Trainers, and Contractors

Staff, educators, and training partners are accountable to:

  • Review program design, delivery methods, and organizational processes to identify and address barriers.
  • Ensure training content, imagery, language, and materials reflect diversity and use inclusive, non-discriminatory practices.
  • Support accessibility in both physical and virtual learning spaces, equipment, and resources.
  • Cultivate inclusive training and workplace environments through culturally respectful practices, inclusive communication, and a welcoming atmosphere.

C. Responsibilities of FTM Leadership and Board of Directors

FTM leadership is accountable to:

  • Model commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and respectful workplace practices.
  • Review organizational structures, policies, and operations to address systemic disadvantage or underrepresentation.
  • Ensure organizational communications and public materials reflect inclusive language and imagery.
  • Provide accessible physical and online environments for staff, participants, and community members.
  • Foster welcoming spaces that reflect cultural and community diversity, including through signage, artwork, language, protocol, and representation.

6. Compliance

FTM’s commitment to equity and respectful workplaces requires continuous learning, reflection, and improvement. All FTM community members are expected to understand and apply equity, diversity, inclusion, and respectful conduct principles within their role and level of influence.

FTM and all individuals operating under this policy must comply with relevant Manitoba legislation, including:

  • The Human Rights Code (Manitoba)
  • The Accessibility for Manitobans Act
  • Workplace Safety and Health Act
  • Any related workplace, employment, or training standards

Formal complaints or allegations involving discrimination, harassment, bullying, or policy violations will be reviewed and addressed through the appropriate FTM policy or procedure or, where relevant, through external legislation and regulatory processes.

7. Definitions

Equity: Recognizing diverse needs and providing individuals with the supports and opportunities required to succeed.

Equality: Providing each person with fair and comparable opportunities so they may fully participate and thrive.

Diversity: The range of human differences—talents, backgrounds, identities, worldviews, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences.

Inclusion: Ongoing, intentional practice of embracing diversity, respecting individuals, and creating accessible, welcoming environments.

Belonging: A state in which individuals feel acknowledged, valued, and supported for who they are, and feel connected to the broader FTM community.

Human Dignity: The right of every person to be safe, respected, valued, and treated ethically.

Respectful Workplace: An environment where all individuals act with professionalism, courtesy, and respect, and where harmful behaviors—such as harassment, discrimination, and bullying—are not tolerated.

Film Training Manitoba is committed to creating an inclusive and healthy workplace where participants, instructors, and staff are treated with dignity and respect. As defined by the Province of Manitoba’s Human Rights code, FTM will not tolerate any forms of harassment and we reserve the right to remove anyone who is creating an unsafe environment.