The “Backlot Santa Fe” is the project’s working name. The final name is still being determined as the partners develop the educational, community, and industry vision for the site.
The project is an extension of SFCC’s Mosaica, the college’s nonprofit university research park entity created to quickly launch innovative projects that expand education, workforce training, and economic opportunities for the community.
The Backlot is, above all, an educational and training space—an outdoor learning laboratory designed to prepare students and trainees for real-world careers in film, construction, and creative industries.
There is nothing else like this in New Mexico or the region. The Backlot represents a new model—an industry-designed, education-driven training site that brings together film, trades, and art programs in one space.
The site’s “shell structures” are not buildings or soundstages—they are film-quality facades used for construction, set design, and production training. These will serve as outdoor learning labs for students and union apprentices alike.
This project was made possible through a partnership between Santa Fe Community College, the Stagecoach Foundation, and IATSE Local 480, with support from Santa Fe County, the City of Santa Fe, and the State of New Mexico.
IATSE Local 480 will use the site to train members and future professionals in set construction, scenic design, and related crafts—building the workforce that sustains New Mexico’s film industry.
SFCC will integrate workforce training and credit-bearing courses tied to film, art, and trades, including new certificates in set building and art design currently in development.
The Backlot is a shared educational resource—not exclusive to one program or group. It connects students, working professionals, and community learners through hands-on, collaborative experiences.
This project complements—not competes with—existing studios or training centers. It provides the infrastructure for high-quality training that strengthens New Mexico’s position as a national film and media leader.
The Backlot is available for rent to commercial productions when not in use for training. When the facility is completed, The Backlot will be a qualified production facility as a filming location for commercial film companies.
Spring 2026
