What happens when talented producers are given the time, support and space to focus on their future?
We asked Amy Jackson, Ken Petrie, Paul Murray and Reece Cargan, who participated in our development programme Film FastTrack.
Over two years, the four film producers used the programme to strengthen their businesses, develop their creative ambitions and evaluate where they wanted their careers to go next.
Delivered by TRC with Course Leader Julia Short and funded by Screen Scotland, Film FastTrack combined financial support with bespoke training, mentoring and industry expertise, giving producers the opportunity to step back from the day-to-day pressures of independent filmmaking and invest in their long-term development.
Alongside masterclasses, business coaching and one-to-one support, the programme created space for reflection, experimentation and growth.
In the following case studies, the four producers reflect on their Film FastTrack journey, sharing the challenges they faced, the lessons they’ve taken from the experience and the impact the programme has had on their work. Together, their stories offer an insight into how targeted support can help talented producers develop not only stronger projects, but stronger and more sustainable careers.
What motivated you to apply to the Film Fast Track?
Ken Petrie
I thought it seemed like a very forward‑thinking, pioneering programme. Producers don’t often get this kind of incubator – there are programmes for meeting international co‑producers, and lots of talent development for writers and directors, but producers are often just expected to know what they’re doing. And to an extent, I do, but the idea of spending time purely focused on producer‑specific skills was really interesting. The stipend also helped – we’re all trying to build sustainable careers and companies, so any support is welcome. Having that support lets you focus more on the projects you’re developing.
What challenges were you facing before the programme, and how have things changed?
Amy Jackson
The main challenge was figuring out how to create a sustainable business in the current filmmaking landscape. I’d been freelance producing for years, set up a company, produced films – but the question was: how do you build something sustainable?
That was the massive appeal of the course – it gave me focused time to think about what that build looks like. By the end of the course, I’d had adequate time to reevaluate, re‑establish, and think about the business as it exists now. The landscape evolves constantly – financing structures, deals, audience appetite – everything changes. Coming out the other end, I now have a robust business plan, which I didn’t have going in.
The programme gave me space to fine‑tune and create something with potential for sustainability
Is there anything you’re specifically more confident doing now?
Reece Cargan
Yeah – I’d say just holding my own and feeling like I belong in the room. Before this, I often felt that people who were born into it – private school, certain backgrounds – had more right to be there than I did. But now I feel like I do have a right to be there. I’m proud to represent working‑class people and people from different backgrounds, not just the same 8% who are always in the room.
That mindset shift is the biggest thing for me. I definitely would have felt like an imposter without the programme.
What has been the most transformational aspect of your experience?
Paul Murray
Because I came in with enthusiasm and a desire to learn, I took every session seriously. I followed up on everything. It was an important part of my personal and professional development.
The most transformational aspect was the course itself – all of it. I wouldn’t know what I know now without it. Over the two years, I moved from being in a transition between industries to fully stepping into a new one.
incredibly grateful for the opportunity. It was a great course – well run, packed with insightful information. For me, it was exactly what I needed, at exactly the right pace. It felt like going to film school, and it’s led to real projects with real money and real prospects of production and audiences. That’s a testament to its success.
You can read more about each of the producers at the following interview pages:
Photo credit: © Eoin Carey for Amy Jackson and Paul Murray’s photos.
