TV/Film

"Made in NY" PA: Katherine Fernandez

January 5, 2015 - A commute to one job helped set Katherine Fernandez on the path to a whole new career. Fernandez, who lives in Inwood in northern Manhattan, was working part-time as a receptionist in Queens when she saw an ad on the subway for the "Made in NY" PA Training Program, the free training program that prepares New Yorkers for entry level positions in the entertainment industry. Fernandez had always had a passion for the industry and was enamored by the idea of being part of a movie or TV show that would be seen by people all over the world. "[It] was fascinating to me," she said.

Katherine Fernandez

Her experience during the five weeks of intensive training was "absolutely amazing and insightful" as she learned set etiquette, walkie talkie jargon and other useful work skills. After completing the program in June 2013, she’s gone on to work on a variety of projects: Royal Pains, Spider-Man, The Blacklist, Law and Order: SVU, MLB Fan Cave, Life Itself, Million Second Quiz, and more.

Currently, she serves as the assistant production coordinator on Bravo’s Fashion Queens. "My life has changed for the better in so many ways," she said. "I am more economically situated. I’ve met so many amazing people who have helped me grow and learn along the way in my work environment. I've worked alongside some of the greatest actors of our time."

Although working in this industry can be very hectic, she’s found that her life has never been more stable. She’s also gotten to know herself better, which has helped her improve her job performance at work.

"My favorite parts of working in production are learning new things work-wise and coming across different people and listening to their own success stories," she said.

Her friends and family are also thrilled by her career. "They have gotten used to the idea that I do not have a standard job, but they are happy for me nonetheless and are very supportive," she said.

With a goal of becoming a line producer one day, Fernandez also has advice for aspiring applicants to the "Made in NY" PA Training Program: "this is more than just a career. It is a lifestyle that comes with many sacrifices, but with hard work, dedication, and discipline, the rewards will be endless."

Interested in learning more about the “Made in NY” PA Training Program? Click here.