Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Acess Corporation logoHome Page Link
Web site indexStudio B Schedule LinkMap and Directions to CMPAC LinkLinks to Related Web SitesDownloadable Forms LinkProgram Guide LinkHow You Can Get Involved LinkStaff LinkCMPAC Information LinkProgram Guide LinkLinks to Related Web SitesFrequently Asked Questions LinkPhoto Galley LinkStudio A Schedule LinkPublic Access LinkBoard of Directors LinkStaff LinkTV Access 21 Information LinkHome Page Link

Training Overview

Because of the nature of television production, the emphasis of our classes is on hands-on experience. This includes in-class work, labs, and volunteer sessions outside of class. Attendance at all sessions is REQUIRED to pass the course. Courses may include practical and/or written tests.

Class and Workshop Schedules


Course Catalog 1 - 2 - 3

This page: Orientation | Basic Studio | Workshop Cancellations | Class Size | Testing Out | Labs | Fees | Dress
Course Descriptions

Orientation – The starting session for everyone interested in becoming a member, using the facility, and/or taking the other courses. The orientation includes a tour of the facilities, a review of the basic rules and regulations, and discussion of "what is public access?" After attendance at the orientation, you may register at the main office and begin taking the other courses.
Day: 2nd Tuesday of the month
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Length: 1 session
Prerequisite: None
Labs: None


1. Basic Studio – Introductory course for working in the studio. This course covers the operation of the studio cameras, basic lighting, set design, and floor directing. Students will also learn the basics of framing a shot and be given a brief overview of the positions in the control room. The course will include the taping of short programs as a practical test as well as a written test. Following the final session, each student will also be required to serve on 4 volunteer lab sessions for current producers.
Day: Thursdays
Time: 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Length: 4 weeks
Prerequisite: Orientation and registration
Labs: 4 volunteer studio sessions
Workshop Cancellations – If inclement weather or insufficient enrollment necessitates canceling a course, we will notify registrants by phone. The course dates may be altered if sessions are affected by weather. In case of overall cancellation, the registrants will be moved to the next available course date unless they choose otherwise.

Class Size – To ensure quality training and a good teacher/pupil ratio, class size is kept relatively small. When the maximum number of registrants has been reached, the course will be closed. If demand warrants, CMPAC may add additional classes in future quarters.

Testing Out – For those who have prior experience in television production, you may "test out" of courses by taking the required written and practical tests. You must schedule testing out with the Operations Manager, and pay a non-refundable fee of $20. If you do not pass the tests, you will be required to take the appropriate course for certification.

Labs – Several courses require the completion of lab sessions. In the studio classes, these take the form of required crewing on other producers’ programs. CMPAC can help you find programs to perform your labs on, but producers will also be able to contact you directly through our volunteer list. You should also take the initiative to complete your labs.

Fees – Many of our classes are free to our members, however some courses do require a small fee. All fees are non-refundable.

Dress – We keep the facility cool to help maintain the equipment. Make sure to dress warmly! For the studio classes in particular, make sure to wear footwear which will be comfortable while standing for long periods.


Continue - 1 - 2 - 3
tvaccess21.com © ARR 2008