From TPS to Film Production: A Journey of Passion and Resilience
Meet Juan Ortiz, a proud graduate of Trenton Central High School’s Class of 2004. His journey through Trenton Public Schools (TPS) started at Benjamin Franklin Elementary, took a detour to Holy Cross on Cass, and led him back to Trenton Central for high school. Through it all, his experiences in TPS shaped the creative and resourceful person he is today.
The Teachers Who Made an Impact
Ask Juan about the teachers who influenced him the most, and one name immediately comes to mind—Mrs. Rose, his 4th-grade teacher at Franklin Elementary. After a serious car accident left him recovering and juggling doctor’s appointments, she made sure he never fell behind. Her empathy and support left a lasting mark, teaching him the importance of resilience and kindness.
School Memories and Reflections
For Juan, school was all about connection. Some of his best memories come from lunchtime—meeting new people, making friends, and sharing ideas. Those moments stuck with him and shaped his love for collaboration and storytelling.
Looking back, Juan sees his time at Trenton Central as a lesson in resourcefulness. "TCHS reminded me that you have to make the best with what you have. That mindset has shaped my creativity and problem-solving skills," he says.
Taking the Leap into Film
After high school, Juan enrolled at Mercer County Community College but quickly realized that the traditional college path wasn’t for him. He had a passion for film production and didn’t want to wait to get started. So, he took the leap, teaching himself through hands-on experience and online resources. That self-starter mindset has defined his career ever since.
Juan’s career in film production has taken him around the world, introducing him to incredible people and experiences. It’s not an easy industry—long hours, high stress, and lots of problem-solving on the fly—but for Juan, the payoff is worth it. "The moments when everything comes together make all the hard work worth it," he says.
Keys to Success
So, what skills have helped Juan thrive in his field?
- Critical thinking & problem-solving – Because things will go wrong, and you have to adapt.
- Public speaking – Whether pitching an idea or leading a team, communication is everything.
- Leadership – The best projects come from teams that trust and respect each other.
- Creative taste – Knowing what works and what doesn’t is key in the world of film.
Challenges in the Industry and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Juan is honest—film production isn’t for the faint of heart. The job is demanding, requiring time away from loved ones for weeks or even months. The pressure is high, and you constantly have to put out fires. "You really have to love this industry in order to survive," he admits.
Juan's advice for students: "Practice and research as much as you can to keep up with the industry. Things change very fast and staying informed is key to staying relevant. Critical thinking and listening skills are so important in filmmaking. The most successful people in this industry are the ones that aren’t scared to make mistakes and constantly make effort to grow."
Words of Wisdom for Current Students
Juan encourages students to take time to explore their interests and find what truly excites them.
"Take the time to find hobbies so you can learn what things really drive you. FIND YOUR WHY! There’s nothing like working in your purpose/happy place. Don’t be afraid to fail—it’s in those moments that you learn and get better. I don’t believe in winning and losing, I believe in winning and learning."
One of the biggest lessons Juan has learned? Your network matters. "The ‘real world’ has taught me that your net worth is heavily influenced by your network. Surround yourself with like-minded people who share your drive and purpose."
Internships & Career Advice
For students looking to build their careers, Juan highly recommends getting hands-on experience through internships and entry-level jobs.
"If you’re one that wants to be in business for yourself, make sure to work for a corporation/big box brand to learn about organized infrastructure. There’s a lot of moving parts you have to learn to run your own business. If you’re trying to work for a fulfilling corporation, make sure to intern in that industry and be a sponge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find a mentor that can guide you. Mentorship is the only legitimate shortcut in life. You can avoid mistakes that elders will share to avoid time spent on issues you can bypass by simply listening and taking note. You have 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason. Listening is more important than always speaking."
Final Thoughts
Juan leaves students with one last piece of advice:
"There’s only one you, and that’s your superpower. Learn to be comfortable in your own skin and prioritize self-love. It’s easy to get caught up in social media and let it distort your self-worth, but stay true to who you are."
Juan’s story is a reminder that success comes from passion, perseverance, and the courage to follow your own path. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to embrace challenges continue to inspire those around him.