UPDATE – Sept 17. 2012 – See bottom of post.
What is #MISSION 818?
The name of my blog is “Four Names of Professional Creativity” and I have posted about my writing, about my artwork, about comic books and movies. I’ve also given suggestions and guidance to new writers on how to find ideas out of the world around them. I’ve promoted my novels, and written reviews of the novels of others. This week I’m writing about employment and my continued long-term career search and what I call Mission 818.
For over a year I have been in a part-time job with the Fullerton College Foundation where I design, assemble, and write content for newsletters, event programs, and advertisements that have increased the Foundation and it’s scholarship programs. They tell me I do a good job.
I am blessed by this job, and glad to help to the Foundation and my alumni of Fullerton College, however I know it is time I turn my focus towards the future.
I am engaged to one of the most – no, make that the most – wonderful woman in the world. We’ve been together for years and we share so much including a lifelong passion for television animation. It is time we get married and I become the best husband she deserves.
To make that happen, I need to find a full time job and join her in the 818.
With that intent, I can’t continue the way I have. Whether it be at an animation studio or not, I must find employment now and it must be near her in the Burbank area, hence the 818.
So, what is Mission 818?
It is my quest to find employment, be married, and live in the 818 area code.
As I’ve mentioned before, since heaven knows when I have wanted to work in comic books and animation. My goal was patricianly achieved in comics, but I still intend to do more with it and I keep my hand in with the webcomic “Flying Glory and the Hounds of Glory” (now in it’s eleventh year). As for animation I got my first script writing credits on several episodes of a show called “Midnight Horror School” in Japan. Unfortunately it has never aired in the U.S. I have also professionally written and developed series.
Additionally I have worked with numerous studio executives and producers as a contracted assistant from time to time over the years (read temp.) With every job, no matter how small, I have gained experience, which I bring to the next one.
Though my dream is to be a scriptwriter on a long running animated television series, or better yet, create my own show that runs for multiple seasons with fantastic rating numbers (I really am dreaming), for now that’s not what Mission 818 is about.
I will not to give up that dream (even those ratings) and will keep fighting for it. Yet, right now, I need a concrete foundation to build that dream upon. I am seeking a “day job,” a secure position in the production offices of an animation studio or prod co. Yes, I know there is no such thing as a long-term secure position in our industry, especially now, but that’s what I’m after. Receiving a regular paycheck while helping produce the best animated television series.
So what type of position am I looking for? It would be so easy to say, I want to get my foot in the door. Well, that’s not enough any more; I need to get my entire body in the door and down the hall. A Production Assistant or Coordinator on a show would be great start, and wouldn’t turn it down, but with my experience and skills I’m looking for something more.
The assistant position I am seeking is in the Television Animation Series Development department of a major studio. A few years ago, I had a temp job in the development department of one such studio, and even though I was there for a short time, it was an extremely thrilling experience as new and potential shows passed across my desk. I fell in love with those offices and am looking to return and be part of that work on a long-term basis.
Additionally, working in a studio’s development department may have a whole lot more stability than in the production of a show.
As much as I would like the above jobs and working in animation, I won’t say no to other positions in or out of the entertainment industry. My only requirement is that should be in the 818, preferably Burbank/Glendale area.
So Mission 818 has begun, seeking employment, and planning for marriage.
Part of this is asking my friends in the industry if they know of or could keep an eye out for any job opening inside or outside of television animation.
All help is appreciated. Know that this isn’t just for me but for the woman I love.
Who knows, one of the studios might need someone to work on their newsletters. I’ve been told I’m pretty good at them.
UPDATE – Sept 17. 2012 – I’m still pursuing employing with in the 818 Area code and the studios. This coming Friday I will be visiting the offices of an Animation Production Company and have the opportunity to pitch a television series. I’ve prepared a pitch bible for a action adventure series, and a pitch for a short, and have also have a back up in case the producers ask “What else you got?” This is very important.
I’ve had the opportunity to pitch before, and even if the shows are bought or turned into successful series, the experience is always good. A little scary, a little fun. It’s a great learning experience.
Hope to write a blog about the experience next weekend.
My #Mission818 continues.
Thanks for the support.
