Meet Alison, a proud graduate of Sault College's class of 2021 Digital Film Production program. Hailing from Sault Ste. Marie, Alison's passion for film and TV has taken her through an exciting career, now thriving as Post-Production Manager in the Soo office of Rolling Pictures, a renowned Toronto-based film and TV post-production facility.
Before her time at Sault College, Alison spent six months of her senior year in high school living abroad. Once she returned home, she explored postsecondary options that would allow her to stay in her hometown. Even though she didn't initially consider a career in the film industry, Alison was drawn to Sault College’s digital film program. It promised a hands-on, engaging curriculum that covered a wide spectrum of the film industry, from development to distribution.
Reflecting on her college days, Alison speaks highly of the program and its professors. "Their knowledge and familiarity with each subject were invaluable," she recalls. The comprehensive curriculum equipped her with both technical skills, like camera operation and video editing, and essential soft skills, such as organization and time management. This balanced approach helped to prepare Alison and her classmates for a variety of areas in the world of film and TV production.
Just three months after graduation, Alison landed a role at Rolling Pictures. The company had a strong relationship with Sault College's professors and has a history of hiring its graduates. Alison became the fourth graduate from her class to join Rolling Pictures, where she continues to work with fellow alumni.
As the Post-Production Manager, Alison oversees the daily operations of both Toronto and Sault Ste. Marie locations. Her role involves managing multi-project workflows for diverse projects, including feature films, television series, animated series, documentaries, and short films. She acts as the bridge between clients and her skilled team, ensuring seamless execution and delivery of projects.
Reel of Fame
Here is a list of just some of the most recent and notable projects Alison has been proud to be a part of at Rolling Pictures.
- The Porter - CBC limited series; 12-time Canadian Screen Award winner
- Sort Of - CBC and HBO MAX series, Peabody Award winner
- In Flames - North American premiere at TIFF 2023; Canadian Screen Award winner
- To Kill a Tiger - Oscar nominee for Best Documentary Feature
- Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story - Canadian premiere at HotDocs 2024
- Dora - recently premiered on Paramount in Canada and the US
Alison is excited by the fast-paced and ever-changing environment of the film industry. She loves the daily challenges, whether it's developing new workflows, connecting with new people, or solving unique problems.
Find Your Way
For those considering a career in film and TV, Alison highly recommends Sault College's program. "It's a fantastic place for everyone, whether you have prior interest or experience - or not," she says. The passionate and knowledgeable professors are eager to see students succeed - and they will be your biggest supporters.
Although the film industry can be tough when starting out, Alison expresses that once you find your starting place, the skills are invaluable and the connections you make along the way are the key to your success. This will then help open the door to further opportunities.