Thomas Matheis

Thomas Matheis wanted to launch into a career in film.

When Thomas Matheis graduated from high school, he wanted to continue his education at an institution that could launch him into a career in film production. He chose the Media Arts and Filmmaking program at Tri-C because he felt it offered the most “hands-on” experience in the area. His successful high school career qualified the Eagle Scout for an Honors Program Fellowship at Tri-C, which included a full scholarship, made possible through support of the Tri-C Foundation.

He also credits Lee Will, Student Production Office program manager, for her guidance and mentorship.

“My professors made a huge impact on my life and my career and recommended that I apply to work in the Student Production Office, where I had the opportunity to use high-end camera and lighting equipment and learn the technical skills I need for my career.”

Matheis graduated from Tri-C last year with an Associate of Applied Business degree in Media Arts and Filmmaking and attended Tri-C’s Intensive Film Crew Training Workshop. The young filmmaker now works regularly in the film industry, moving toward his goal of becoming a cinematographer.

“I’m taking any job that comes my way,” he said. “Since graduating, I’ve worked on Acts of Violence, starring Bruce Willis, Escape Plan 3, with Sylvester Stallone and Dave Bautista, on Native Son, The Last Summer and Them that Follow. Recently, I have worked on Moondance and Year of the Beetle. It was just announced that Native Son and Them That Follow will be premiering at Sundance.”

Matheis credits Tri-C for the training he needed to work in a competitive industry.

“Tri-C taught me the skill set and attitude I need to work on a film set,” he said. His advice for future students is straightforward: “Success is simple. Do what’s right, the right way, at the right time.”