photos by Jeff Kash
On January 18, Assistant Directors, Location Managers and Assistant Location Managers in the greater Chicago area were invited to meet one-on-one with local DGA members who are experienced dramatic entertainment professionals and have hiring authority. Presented by the Chicago Coordinating Committee (CCC) as part of its mission to facilitate the exchange of ideas, and further professional opportunities for all Midwestern DGA members, this special event was designed to give attendees a chance to ask questions, seek guidance and discuss their own personal career growth.
After the attendees were checked in by CCC Co-Chair Rich Lederer and DGA Field Rep Brett Wise, Lederer spoke about the Committee’s efforts towards building, strengthening and supporting the Chicago DGA community through professional development and member support. In illustration of that mission, he then welcomed the more than 50 Chicago-area members to the CCC’s Speed Mentoring sessions.
During the sessions, all attendees were matched with experienced mentors for brief 20-minute sessions, during which they discussed topics including professional development, best practices for seeking employment and general tips for working on set and working in higher categories.
The mentors for this event included:
- Directors Joe Chappelle, Bob Hercules, Rick Lefevour
- 1st ADs Senica Billingsley, Jim Giovanneti, Stefan Rand, Chris DeAngelis, Tim Harris
- Location Managers: Nick Rafferty and Mono Wilborn
- 2nd AD: Jason Dusenske
About the Committee:
The Chicago Coordinating Committee was formed in the mid-1960s to coordinate Guild activities in the Chicago Area, including acting as liaison between members and the Guild, disseminating information, and promoting public awareness of the Guild. The Committee is Co-Chaired by Director Thomas Wekony, Jr. and UPM Richard S. Lederer.
