PERG Celebrates EWI Trainees as New Cohort Begins

| PERG News: June 2026 |

As PERG prepares to welcome a new group of participants into the Equitable Workforce Initiative (EWI), we are pleased to recognize one of the program's current success stories. Sponsored by Netflix, the EWI program provides entry-level employees at PERG member companies with six months of structured, hands-on training in rental house operations.

With the first six months of her employment nearly complete—the period during which the EWI training curriculum takes place—Valerie Cepeda of Arri Rental New York has emerged as an outstanding example of the program's impact. Valerie, along with Damián Ortiz of Serious Grippage & Lighting in Albuquerque, has spent the past six months gaining experience across multiple departments and developing the skills necessary for a successful career in the rental industry.

Valerie Cepeda

Additional new employees begin their training in the coming weeks. To support participants, PERG develops EWI Coffee Breaks, which provide valuable workforce development and training resources for entry-level employees throughout the industry. The Coffee Breaks are available on ESTA's YouTube channel through the dedicated EWI Coffee Break playlist.

From the beginning, Valerie demonstrated the qualities PERG seeks in EWI participants—initiative, drive, creativity, and the ability to work independently. Today, she confidently leads multi-camera preps, working closely with clients and Arri staff to deliver an exceptional experience. Her flexibility and creative problem-solving have earned praise from her colleagues.

Chris Cottone (Service Department Manager at Arri Rental) highlighted Valerie's ability to work with clients and find innovative solutions when conventional approaches are unavailable. Reflecting on the value of the program, he noted, "The EWI program sets great guidelines on training and ensures participants get a well-rounded experience in all departments of a rental house. EWI has become an integral part of Arri Rental's commitment to training and mentoring young people who are interested in careers in cinema."

Valerie's technical expertise has grown significantly, particularly in lens maintenance and repair. Clients have come to regard her as a trusted and supportive technician who delivers the level of service camera crews have long expected from their rental providers. In fact, many clients now request that Valerie lead their in-house preps when they return with subsequent productions.

As Valerie continues to build her career, she does so with a strong foundation of technical skills and the support of a community invested in her success.

From all of us at PERG, congratulations, Valerie. We look forward to supporting you as your career continues to come into focus.

PERG also congratulates Damián Ortiz and welcomes the newest members of the upcoming EWI cohort. We are grateful to Netflix for its sponsorship and continued support of this important initiative, which is helping to build the next generation of talent for the motion picture equipment rental community.

Want to learn more about PERG's Equitable Workforce Initiative (EWI)?