Shaping the Future of Entertainment: Jenn Bullock's Vision for Inclusivity and Excellence
In the dynamic entertainment world, Jenn Bullock stands out as a visionary leader and accomplished professional. As an elected officer and NY Director of Education for Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists Local 798 I.A.T.S.E., Jenn has initiated and overseen significant strides in shaping the industry's future. Her, along with the membership of I.A.T.S.E. Local 798, have achieved an innovative partnership with Reel Works to launch the inaugural I.A.T.S.E. Local 798 Entertainment Industry Hair Stylist Training program, which issued a new education and skill development standard. An Emmy-nominated hairstylist herself, Jenn brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence to her role. Let's explore her remarkable journey, from her roots in theater to her current position at the forefront of education for hair and makeup artistry in television and film.
Jenn's passion for union work runs in her blood. With a mother, a member of the California Teachers Union, and a grandfather who championed workers' rights, joining I.A.T.S.E. wasn't just a career move—it was her legacy. Jenn's journey in the entertainment industry began on the West Coast, where she first joined I.A.T.S.E. Local 706, laying the foundation for her meteoric rise in television.
Jenn's talent earned her a 2024 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Period Or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Hairstyling as part of the team (led by Sean Flanigan) on "The Gilded Age" episode "You Don't Even Like Opera." Her meticulous recreation of 1880s New York hairstyles, from high society updos to working-class styles, brings authenticity to the show's opulent world. This recognition highlights Jenn's exceptional skill in creating period-accurate, character-defining hairstyles.
When the world paused during COVID-19, Jenn Bullock hit fast-forward on innovation. I.A.T.S.E. Local 798's Executive Board, educators and members teamed up with Reel Works, she orchestrated a masterstroke: the I.A.T.S.E. Entertainment Industry Hair Stylist Training program. This wasn't just a course but a lifeline, equipping aspiring professionals with cutting-edge skills while the industry held its breath.
For Jenn and the program, the crowning achievement was the day Antoinette Massiah made history. As the first from the program to earn Local 798 membership, Antoinette didn't just pass a test – she blazed a trail. For Jenn, this moment wasn't just professional pride; it was a personal triumph, a testament to Local 798's vision of a more inclusive, skilled industry.
In March 2024, Jenn joined the Inaugural MediaMKRS Summit at Paramount Global. Participating as a panelist in the "Breaking Down Barriers, Building Up Talent" discussion, she offered critical insights into the media industry's progress toward diversity. Bullock underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among studios, unions, educational institutions, and other critical stakeholders in cultivating a diverse talent pipeline.
Bullock's multifaceted contributions to education, certification processes, and advocacy are shaping the entertainment industry's current landscape and laying the groundwork for its future. She firmly believes none of this would be possible without the support of the Local 798 educators and membership. Her leadership exemplifies a commitment to fostering a more inclusive, skilled, and cohesive industry environment. As the sector evolves, Bullock's initiatives are poised to be pivotal in steering the entertainment world toward a more equitable and proficient future.