Monday, September 8, 2025

EWI 2025 Accepting Applications. Don’t Miss this Opportunity!



Rental companies have started submitting applications for EWI 2025. PERG member rental companies should move quickly to secure a spot in the new grant cycle. The PERG program, which is sponsored by Netflix, pays all employee salary and payroll expenses for the first six months of employment. PERG and Netflix are working together to build a cohort of EWI 2025 candidates who will all start by the middle of July.  We will be awarding the first grants soon and will move quickly to fill all 6 spots. Learn more about the program by reviewing the Rental House Guidelines.

With EWI, new staff show accelerated growth, get in-depth industry training, and have the opportunity to network with industry professionals from every corner of the rental house ecosphere. With guidance from PERG’s training curriculum, developed by rental houses leaders, participating PERG members have the support to provide their trainees with a diverse range of experiences giving the candidate a broad understanding of how rental companies serve their clients through the entire rental process. This extensive approach to training from the start of employment builds a strong foundation for accelerated growth. 

The success of our EWI 2024 candidates speaks to the strengths of the program. In just one year from the start of the EWI 2024 grant cycle, EWI graduates are taking on more responsibilities and leadership roles within their workplaces and communities. Kiora Englemann took on a management role at Lux Lighting NY and continues to grow as a leader. Ashley at Triode has helped design new shelving on their grip trucks and found better and more efficient methods for managing large truck and equipment rentals. Sarah Sweeney, hired as a check-in and radio technician at Talamas, has broadened her skills and gained valuable hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting cinema lenses. Celeste deBardelaben has started working in the field as a first camera assistant building on the resources, skills, and network provided to her while on the rental floor at BECiNE and as an EWI candidate. Toni Fox at Serious Grippage & Light continues to work on set as well as in the shop, gaining valuable insight into how her work at the rental house impacts the crews on set. Alejandra Torres is working closely with clients as the lead equipment technician during the prep and checkout process and is taking on leadership roles in the rental shop. Each candidate is positioned for growth, and we are excited to continue with them on their journey. As we look to the future, I am thrilled to bring another round of candidates into the program and to continue strengthening the foundation of our industry.

Toni Fox helps load a truck at Serious Grippage & Light

Kiorra Engelmenn checks an LED tube at Lux Lighting

Alejandra Torres at ARRI

Celeste deBardelaben with camera rigs at Becine.

Sarah Sweeney at Talamas

EWI 2025 launched at NAB in April with six grants allocated for this cycle. Take advantage of the program today and apply by completing a simple online form and submitting a description of the role for which you are hiring. Completing the application does not commit you to anything; it is a preliminary step to register your interest and ability to participate in the program. If you are in the process of hiring for an entry-level position, this is the perfect time to apply. PERG has the network and connections in place to bring eligible candidates to you. 



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