Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, Niles Goodsite made his way in the film industry as a stage manager. With the responsibility of juggling many different duties, such as managing the technical and human aspects of the entire production, Niles Goodsite developed into something much bigger. In 2000 Niles Goodsite accepted his first role as Assistant Director, a position of significant administrative power and responsibility.

Niles Goodsite brought the unique skills of organization and quick thinking to the world of directing. He landed his first job as the Associate Director for the TV series 227, and from there on out, it was his job to create a name that others would remember.

How did he do this, you ask? We asked Niles Goodsite about his work, and he explained 4 key factors to becoming a truly unique assistant director. “First it starts with studying,” he said. If you are serious about getting into the film and production industry, you may want to think about going to school. There are many film schools that offer different programs focusing on film production and they will teach you about assistant directing. Secondly, get some specialized training. Attend workshops that cover assistant directing and that focus on the many aspects of the position. These types of classes will help you focus on major topics such as scheduling and set protocols.

“Third and most importantly, work your way up in the industry,” Goodsite stated. Take opportunities that might not seem fun and exhilarating at the time, because they will surely lead you to where you want to go. Assistant directors don’t get hired without experience. It took Niles Goodsite almost three decades to finally become an assistant director, but his past experience is what makes him the greatest in the industry. Last but not least, do it on your own. Technically, there is no training required to become an assistant director, however, the more training you have gotten and the more experience you have under your belt, the better assistant director you will be. When you have a passion for something, like Niles Goodsite does, no matter how long it takes, you will prosper.