By Meghan McCormick
The Norman Transcript

Adults and high school students interested in the world of digital video production will be able to enroll in classes this fall at Moore Norman Technology Center’s Franklin Road campus.

Chris Kalinski was hired in May to lead the program. He started work at the technology center in June.

“I’ve been teaching over seven years,” he said. “I’ve taught at high school level, college level and now I’m here at Moore Norman.”

Prior to making a career change, Kalinksi was a professor of broadcast and studio manager at Oklahoma City University. He taught media production and headed the video resource center at Norman High School from 2001 to 2005.

“I’ve done a little bit of everything,” he said.

Kalinski also is certified as an Apple computer trainer.

He looks forward to the upcoming school year and is ready for the first day of school which is slated for Aug. 15.

“To build your own program is a dream for me,” he said.

Kalinski said his goal is to teach students how to tell a story from a visual and audio standpoint. As a teacher, he wants to work on all aspects of production.

He said the staff members at MNTC have helped him adjust to his new surroundings.

“It takes more than one person to build a program,” Kalinski said. “It takes a team effort.”

For the fall semester, enrollment in digital video production has reached its capacity of 37 students, he said. A waiting list has been formed.

Kalinski said digital production is a two-year program. Those who only complete one year, can receive a production assistance certificate. Students who fulfill all requirements will earn a digital video diploma and can take the Apple certification test.

Moore Norman Technology Center Executive Director Lynda Kouri said the staff researched the program and looked at the industry need. After extensive review of the digital production industry, officials found a demand for jobs in the field, she said.

“At Moore Norman, we prepare students for continuing education and employment,” Kouri said.

Kouri said students and parents are ready for the classes to begin.

“This is a program we are all excited about,” Kouri said.

Until the first day of school arrives, Kalinski will continue to prepare his classroom.

Kalinski lives in Norman with his wife, Rose, and two sons, Gavin, 3, and Mathew, 7 months.