I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 History

With its charter established in 1962 I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 has grown to become the largest motion picture technician union in Canada, with over 4800 members representing 21 departments. I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 represents a diverse group of talented, skillful and award winning artisans, technicians, and craftspeople that represent the core crew of motion picture productions throughout British Columbia and the Yukon.

Throughout the history of motion picture production in British Columbia I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 has been instrumental in the development of BC into the third largest production center in North America. During these periods of incredible growth, I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 has been at the forefront of the key issues and industry developments. I.A.T.S.E. was instrumental in promoting BC to the Los Angeles production market even before the creation of the BC Film Commission and added invaluable contributions to the creation of the film tax credit model which has become an industry benchmark all over the globe.

The I.A.T.S.E. name is a recognized industry leader throughout North America with over 400 hundred Locals representing stage and theatrical employees with dignity and respect. To studios and leading producers in both stage and theatre the I.A.T.S.E. name provides comfort and confidence. Producers know they can make their movie or production with trained professionals who are knowledgeable, experienced, safe and cost conscious. I.A.T.S.E. professionals are found all over the globe making the movies, theatrical productions and events people line up to see.

In British Columbia, I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 technicians crew everything from blockbusters to cost conscious independent Canadian productions with professionalism and experience. If that isn’t enough our talented members have cabinets full of Oscars, Emmys, Leos, Geminis, and the like. I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 provides certainty to the Producer that their crews will be highly skilled, trained and safe employees. In return I.A.T.S.E. offers its member’s continued training in their crafts, and safety as well as good quality, cost effective medical, dental and pension benefits.

Great motion picture producers know how to find great crews, they look for I.A.T.S.E. crews.

I.A.T.S.E. motion picture crews have confidence in their representation and know that I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 will help continue to develop a sustainable and growth oriented film industry in BC, through continued positive industry partnerships. Our crews have the knowledge that they can continue to have real jobs and raise their families in a great province with a great job.

In addition to representing the best film technicians, I.A.T.S.E. also contributes to the community in many ways. I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 is a major contributor to the following:

• Oppenheimer Christmas Dinner
• Performing Arts Lodge – PAL – assisted living
• Art’s Umbrella
• Women in Film
• Vancouver Film Festival
• Vancouver Asian Film Festival
• Out on Screen
• Firefighters All Star Baseball Game
• Whistler Film Festival
• Actors Fund

I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 also helps support members and future artisans with annual scholarships and bursaries at local and international educational facilities.

In conclusion, I.A.T.S.E. Local 891 is a vital component and partner in a sustainable and maturing motion picture industry in British Columbia. Our members offer the cutting edge skills and talent which attracts the best and brightest productions and producers.