MADISON, FL — Two North Florida College students recently traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, after
being selected from a competitive pool of applicants to work the 2026 Post-Production
World (PPW) Conference through Future Media Concepts, gaining hands-on experience
in film, media and emerging technology fields.
The opportunity was brought to North Florida College through NFC alumnus Tyree Peterson,
who now works for Future Media Concepts (FMC), the organization behind Post-Production
World.
The student selection process was facilitated by NFC Director of Resource Development
Traci McClung, Director of Student Engagement Melanie Morgan and the Coordinator of
Career and Transfer Center Snowey Hagan through the “From Sentinel to Success Creative
Challenge.” A total of 17 students submitted applications for the opportunity.
Selected students worked alongside FMC staff and convention personnel while networking
with industry professionals and gaining exposure to careers in filmmaking, production,
screenwriting and emerging technology.
Among the students selected was recent Class of 2026 NFC Associate in Arts graduate
Destiny Langley, from Suwannee County. She described the opportunity as transformative.
“When I applied for this competition, I didn’t expect to win it,” said Langley. “I
applied knowing that if I won, it would be a major advantage in my journey to become
a screenwriter.”
Langley shared that despite concerns about traveling due to the progression of Multiple
Sclerosis, NFC staff encouraged her to pursue the opportunity.
“I am so glad I decided to go, as this trip was the best experience I have ever had,”
Langley said. “I met so many incredible people during this trip, from the other volunteers
FMC hired during the convention to the staff and even random passersby I encountered
along the way.”
NFC student and recent Business Operations Certificate graduate Ben Collazo, from
Madison County, was also selected to participate. He reflected on the impact the experience
had on his confidence and outlook.
“I learned from this experience that technology is evolving rapidly, especially with
Artificial Intelligence (AI),” Collazo said. “People in the film and technology industries
have very different perspectives on AI. Some people fear that Artificial Intelligence
will replace jobs, while others believe it will help the industry evolve and grow.”
Collazo said working the convention strengthened both his communication and interpersonal
skills.
“By going to Vegas and participating in this trip, I was able to shake hands and connect
with people from around the world,” Collazo said. “The experience positively impacted
both my confidence and my outlook for the future.”
McClung said the opportunity provided students with valuable real-world exposure beyond
the classroom.
“This experience allowed our students to step into a professional environment, build
industry connections and gain firsthand experience in creative and emerging technology
fields,” McClung said. “Opportunities like this can broaden students’ perspectives
and help them better envision their future careers.”
For more information about North Florida College programs and student opportunities,
visit NFC.edu.
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Ben Collazo in front of the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign
Ben Collazo overlooking the Las Vegas Strip