Who We Are

Local 849 was granted Charter on January 1, 1990 and, along with 40+ other Canadian Locals, operates under the umbrella of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada (AFL-CIO, CLC).

The International Alliance encompasses more than 300 Locals and over 150,000 members throughout North America. Although the International’s Head Office is located in New York, each Local functions independently. Local 849 operates under Home Rule through the Local’s Constitution and By-laws and Collective Agreement. These documents set specific procedures, rates, and conditions of work within our jurisdiction of Canada’s three Maritime Provinces – New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

To meet its objectives, Local 849 operates in a democratic manner. The initiatives of its representatives are subject to ratification by the membership. Local 849 does not operate on a seniority system and does not maintain a hiring roster. Members are encouraged to actively seek employment.

Local 849’s membership adhere to strict standards of professionalism. Our skills, talent, and dedication have garnered our membership awards and recognition from producers and audiences from around the globe.

Who we represents

Local 849 currently represents the following departments within the Motion Picture Industry:

Executive Board

The Executive Board and Financial Trustees of Local 849 (also referred to as Officers) are elected from the membership every three years. The Executive Board is responsible for conducting the ongoing business of the local between the quarterly General Membership Meetings and meets at least once per month.

President

Adam Vautour

Member Since: August, 2014

Department(s): Grip, Lighting, Set Construction

Vice President

Kristin Arason

Member Since: September, 1997

Department(s): Transportation

Treasurer

Rick Gillis

Member Since: May, 1995

Department(s): Grip, Lighting

Secretary

Olivia King

Member Since: November, 2019

Department(s): Sound

Member At Large

Khalieha Cunningham

Member Since: January, 2022

Department(s): Hair

Member At Large

Mark Kenny

Member Since: August, 2011

Department(s): Grip, Lighting

Member At Large

Shawn Kilpatrick

Member Since: September, 2020

Department(s): Set Construction

Financial Trustee

Kimmy Dewell

Member Since: November, 2018

Department(s): Makeup

Financial Trustee

Heather Soper

Member Since: May, 2007

Department(s): Animal Wrangler, Marine, Transportation