Kevin A. Lopez (Motion Picture Technical High School), Andrew Elias (Academy for Careers in Television & Film), Dr. Matthew Gonzales (The Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television), Lisa Green (Tradeswomen of Local 52), Kathleen Tophham (Tradeswomen of Local 52), and Katie Chambers (Senior Director, NYWIFT) (Photo by Catherine Woo)
New York New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT), in partnership with the Tradeswomen of Local 52, presented a special program on June 1 at Silvercup Studios celebrating women working behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. The event featured a panel discussion examining the role of creative educators in the media industry and honored longtime Local 52 electrician Glynis Burke for her outstanding career and contributions to the field.
Educators from local New York schools, moderated by Lisa Green (Local 52 Set Decorator and Production Designer), discussed how they are fostering the next generation of designers and crew members. Speakers included Andrew Elias (Academy for Careers in Television & Film), Dr. Matthew Gonzales (The Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television), Kevin A. Lopez (Motion Picture Technical High School).
As part of NYWIFT’s longstanding tradition of recognizing women whose work helps power the film and television industry behind the camera, the organization presented a special “Women Behind the Scenes” recognition award to electrician Glynis Burke, a respected member of Local 52 whose career has helped pave the way for women in the trades. NYWIFT Board Member Emelyn Stuart, owner of Stuart Cinema & Café, presented the honor.
Honoree Glynis Burke (left) with NYWIFT Board Member Emelyn Stuart
We were thrilled to gather educators and creatives working behind the scenes to share best practices and how the next generation of creative workers is being educated and supported for the future. It was also so exciting to honor excellence and to learn from Glynis Burke, who received our recognition,” said NYWIFT CEO Cynthia Lopez. “She is a great example of how long-term dedication to supporting her peers and honing her craft can build a rich, meaningful career behind-the-scenes in our industry.”
A lively networking reception followed, allowing members of NYWIFT and the Tradeswomen of Local 52 to connect against the backdrop of Silvercup Studios’ beautiful cityscape views.
About Glynis Burke
Glynis Burke joined Local 52’s Electric Department in 1977 and was one of the first women in the department (which, in 2026, is still about 90% male). Glynis has always welcomed and supported women in the Union and has been an inspiration to the women who have come after her in the Electric Department. Over the years, Glynis has worked in every aspect of the Electric Department – Electrician, Best Boy, Gaffer, Key shop Electric – working on movies, documentaries, TV series, and commercials. Most recently: six seasons on the TV series “The Americans” and the “Power” franchise.
Glynis has been a strong presence in Local 52, serving on the Board of Trustees since 1993, and this past year, was re-elected for a second term as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Additionally, in 2018, along with fellow member Gavin Curran, she started Local 52’s Labor Assistance Program, which provides confidential assistance to any member in need. The Tradeswomen of Local 52 want to honor her accomplishments and the example she has set for all of us and for her dedication to Local 52.
