Story Supervisor Michael Herrera discusses how following his passions has led to thrilling opportunities, the deep connections he’s made through his work in animation, and his desire as a Shop Steward to help members understand the Guild and their power within it.
Name: Michael Herrera
Job Title: Story Supervisor
Studio: Netflix (Burbank Office)
Contact Info: stewards-netflix@tag839.org
Tell us a little about yourself and your career journey.
I’m a local to Los Angeles, raised by a single mom who encouraged my artistic interests from a young age. Even as a kid, I knew I wanted to be an Imagineer, a Disney animator, a magician and The Phantom of the Opera (all of which I feel like I accomplished in one way or another). After years of school and trying to make my own films, I inevitably found my love of story, and I have worked as a Feature Story Artist since 2012 when I was hired as a trainee at Walt Disney Animation Studios. Since then I’ve contributed to dozens of films, shorts, and special projects.
My love of musical theater has followed me in my career, and I’ve been lucky to work on multiple animated musicals. My career has been nothing if not unpredictable, and I’m currently working in development at Netflix Animation Studios. I’ve never let go of my childhood aspirations, taking magic lessons at the Magic Castle, as well as musical theater courses, dance, and voice acting. I have found that the deeper I dive into the things I love, the more thrilling opportunities have come my way.
What do you love most about working in animation?
I’ve found that animation folks are some of the finest people in any business, inside and outside of our careers. I think the art of animation is the ultimate collaboration that forces us to lean on and learn from one another in such a deep way. I’ve made some of the deepest connections of my life in this career, found the best friends, and even my fiancé. I love the people.
Why did you volunteer to serve as a Shop Steward?
My beginning with the Union is not as bright and positive as I wish it had been. For the early years of my career, I barely had any idea what TAG was, what I was now a part of, not to mention how to effectively contribute. I was disconnected and inherited a negative view of the Guild that some of my instructors and mentors shared. It took me some time, and the generosity of Union leadership, to finally pull me in and give me the proper welcome I wish I’d had at the start. I’d like to be part of making that proper welcome for new members.
The last few contract negotiations are what pulled me in to becoming more engaged with TAG. I wanted to help in any way I could, and I had to realize how much I just didn’t know about how unions work. I would later volunteer to be a Delegate for the District 2 and IATSE Quadrennial convention. It was there that a lot of things finally clicked for me. I got to witness firsthand how powerful we are, not just as a Local but as part of the greater IA. Good things happen when we come together and push for a better future. TAG is in vital need of a boost in engagement from our members. I have seen too many Union kin who feel afraid to share their grievances, to “rock the boat,” and many who simply don’t know their own rights. As a Shop Steward, I believe I can do the most good by meeting people face-to-face in real time and help to create a stronger and more connected Union.
As a Shop Steward, what are your priorities in helping TAG members at your studio?
Educating members is absolutely crucial. We’re all busy on the job, and when we are crunched, things can slip. Folks lose track of time, fatigue sets in, and the last thing people have energy for is reading through contracts. I believe I can help sift through the noise and help members to understand the tools and protections they have at their disposal. I think having more informed members automatically leads to more engaged members, and the ripple effect will lift us up.
Learn more about Michael at his website.
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