The FutureWorks Academy 6-month training program at the Chennai studio includes mentorship, specialized training, and a paid internship; successful graduates are offered a 3-year paid service agreement.
Indian film production company FutureWorks has announced their new VFX training framework for the FutureWorks Academy, located in Chennai, that provides entry-level artists the opportunity to learn from senior level professionals and work on live projects in a structured, supportive environment.
Three levels comprise the academy’s free, six-month long training program. Level one provides an overview of the industry, enabling entry-level talent to gain insight into the types of work and required skills. At level two, students focus on their area of interest and benefit from training with a senior artist. The final level is a paid internship which provides the opportunity to work on ongoing projects, including hands-on experience in the practical aspects of working on a shot alongside their mentor. Once artists have completed all three levels successfully, they are offered a three-year paid service agreement with a career development projection.
Savita Shekhawat, Head of Training and Development at FutureWorks, oversees and manages the academy. With 25 years of industry experience both in artist and leadership roles, Shekhawat’s experience spans 2D cell animation to 3D, and beyond.
FutureWorks Academy is currently accepting 18 entry-level applicants per cohort per month. Cohorts work with a mentor who guides them through the entire training process, ensuring they have ample time for tailored career development and access to specialized training. The program is fully in-person, with approximately 80% of students coming from the immediate geographic area of Chennai, India.
Shekhawat stated, “Building this program and overseeing the development of our students has been hugely rewarding. As the demand for content grows, so does the need to bridge the gap between the current capabilities and the new, expanded potential. We want to ensure that we give our artists all the tools they need to succeed in their careers, including regular one-on-one review sessions that provide actionable short-term goals as they progress through the ranks.”
“Our goal with FutureWorks Academy is to make the Media and Entertainment Industry as attractive a career prospect as other technical industries such as IT or Engineering,” said Gaurav Gupta, Managing Director & Founder, FutureWorks. “Starting with Chennai, we plan to open training academies in other locations in the future, creating a whole ecosystem dedicated to nurturing new talent.”
Source: FutureWorks
Whitney is a freelance writer focusing on VFX-driven fantasy film & TV as well as preschool animation.
