Directors are the main creative force in the making of films, television shows, and plays. They are responsible for making a wide range of artistic decisions. Together with the producer, the director hires the actors and staff.

The Directors Guild administers a training program for second assistant motion picture directors. The program includes seminars and on-the-job training. Applicants must have either a bachelor's degree or three to fifteen years of related production experience. Those who complete the program are listed in the industry Experience Roster. A listing qualifies them to work as a second assistant director but does not necessarily lead to a job as a director.