Governor Pritzker Cuts Ribbon at IATSE Local 2’s New Training Center

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 2 Chicago Stagehands to celebrate the opening of their new training center, which was supported by a $5 million grant from the State of Illinois.

“Illinois is a prime cultural hub and major tourist destination – thanks in no small part to our skilled entertainment workforce,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “IATSE’s new training center will further solidify that status while bringing quality jobs, opportunity, and investment to our communities.”

“With this program, we’re showcasing once again that Illinois is the place where creativity and opportunity meet” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “This helps ensure Illinois artists and stagehands have the skills, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.”

Illinois continues to bolster its reputation as a top destination for film, due to the state’s growing production infrastructure, state-funded training programs, expanded talent pipeline, and the competitive Film Production Tax Credit. Unlike many other states, Illinois does not have a cap on film and television tax credits.

“If you’ve been to a great show or concert — or seen Chicago looking magnificent on the screen — it was made great in large part because of the work of IATSE Local 2,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “This facility ensures they’ll continue leading the way in skill, safety and innovation, preparing the next generation of professionals for the high-tech, high-skill jobs that quite literally keep the show going.”

“Today’s ribbon cutting of IATSE Local 2’s new training facility marks an investment into the future of our community by bolstering access to resources equipping laborers with the skills needed to be successful in their roles,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). “With this new training facility, we are uplifting and supporting the arts, no matter if it’s a community production or a new television show, by unlocking new opportunities.”

“This investment in training people for the good-paying union jobs that make events small and large possible is an investment in advancing careers, creating culture, and strengthening communities,” said House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Westchester). “As we open this training center, we’re opening doors to opportunity, because the training that will happen here and the union jobs that will come from that are the difference between just getting by and actually getting ahead.”

"Chicago continues to be a hub of skill and talent in the U.S. because we have supported the thousands of behind-the-scenes workers that make our world-class productions possible,” said State Representative Jaime Andrade (D-Chicago). “Illinois continues to be committed to creating an environment that attracts and keeps talented workers by supporting job training programs such as this one. This new training center on the Northwest Side will help us further those goals together. Chicagoans deserve greater access to job opportunities, training, and developments in their field. Vocational training like this makes that possible.”

The Illinois General Assembly recently passed a bill to strengthen the state’s film and TV community by expanding the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit. The expansion will support good-paying jobs throughout the state with numerous enhancements including an increased tax credit for local labor and Illinois vendors, incentives to relocate TV series to Illinois, regional production bonuses, and more. ​

“The importance of training in the entertainment industry cannot be understated. ​ It goes to the heart of safety at work, and ensures workers have the skills required to succeed in their crafts,” said IATSE President Matthew D. Loeb. “By supporting the training center Governor Pritzker has proven he understands the economic and cultural significance of our business, and the contribution IATSE members make to it.”

“We are fortunate in Illinois that labor and politics meld in a manner that supports workers,” said IATSE Stagehands Local 2 Business Manager Craig Carlson. “This training center is a great example of our political leadership always putting people first, with innovative initiatives in job creation and development, making Chicago and Illinois a beacon for others to follow.”

“Thank you to IATSE, Governor Pritzker, and everyone who made today possible,” said Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea. “This new training center raises the bar for Illinois’ entertainment and creative industries. As the first of its kind in the state, it proves what we can achieve when we put workers — and the future of our workforce — first. With this $5 million grant, we’re training the next generation of entertainment professionals for good, safe, union jobs in Illinois’ world-class venues — from Broadway blockbusters and sold-out concerts to the behind-the-scenes crews driving our film and television industry. Thank you, Governor Pritzker, for standing with workers and ensuring that Illinois continues to lead the nation in building a stronger, safer, and more skilled union workforce.”

“IATSE members may work literally behind the scenes, but their talent is essential in bringing major productions to life,” said Chicago Federation of Labor President Bob Reiter. “With support from state investment, IATSE Local 2’s new facility will help train the union workforce that fuels our robust and always expanding entertainment industry.”

Illinois’ incentive program, which offers tax credits for local labor and production expenditures, has been a key factor in Illinois landing major productions. The State's tax credit has resulted in a $6.81 return on investment for every dollar spent on the incentive, resulting in over $4.5 billion in economic activity between FY17 and FY24. 94% of Illinois' current film industry economic impact is attributed to the impact of the tax credit enacted by Governor Pritzker.

Illinois’ film production expenditures reached $653 million in 2024 – the second-highest expenditure total in state history – along with estimated wages of $351 million and 18,200 estimated hires in the industry (excluding extras). The high expenditures demonstrate Illinois’ ability to bounce back in the wake of the strikes that halted production in 2023.

“As Illinois’ world-renowned film industry continues to grow, the State is prioritizing supporting the Illinoisans that make the magic happen on screen and behind the scenes,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Our state already serves as a hub for film productions, and IATSE Local 2’s new training facility will open the doors to individuals looking to join the industry or grow their talents in Illinois.”

In order to build upon the state's reputation as a national destination for film and TV production, in 2022, the state launched the Film and TV Workforce Training Program, which is designed to increase diversity in Illinois' film industry. Since the program’s launch, the Illinois Film Office has partnered with various organizations across the state to train and hire over 600 individuals, mostly women and students of color, that are historically underrepresented in the industry.

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