For those who may not be familiar, what is ESPN NEXT?
ESPN NEXT is our full-time early career development program for Production Assistants and Content Associates. We hire, train and develop early-career talent working behind the scenes across global studio shows, live events, digital and social. Through structured training, hands-on production assignments and ongoing development, we prepare early-career professionals for content roles across ESPN.
What makes the program’s approach unique?
We believe the best way to develop future sports media leaders is through real experience, meaningful responsibility and continuous learning. By combining structured training, hands-on production assignments, and cross-platform exposure, we prepare our participants to contribute across ESPN’s studio, live event, digital and social teams. Our goal is to build storytellers and producers who are ready to grow with ESPN and help shape the future of sports storytelling.
You recently launched a brand-new ESPN NEXT website. What can people find there?
We’re really excited about it. The site is a central hub for everything NEXT — program information, resources, development opportunities and more. It’s designed to be the front door to ESPN’s early-career production pipeline. Whether you’re a current participant, an ESPN employee who wants to learn more or someone interested in joining the program, it’s all there. Check it out at next.espn.com.
What kinds of development opportunities does NEXT offer?
We have a full slate. NEXT Level Development gives all participants access to workshops, mentorship and program-wide events. Our annual NEXT Summit brings the community together for a full day of panels, presentations and career development. We run weekly workshops focused on production skills like graphics producing, feature producing and digital production. And for high-performing Content Associates, the NEXT Accelerator offers individualized mentorship, career coaching, stretch assignments and the chance to pitch innovative ideas to ESPN senior leadership.
Any exciting things on the horizon?
Absolutely. We have a big summer ahead — the NEXT Summit returned on July 16, we expanded our Weekly Workshop offerings, and we welcomed new cohorts of interns and Production Assistants. We’re also gearing up to support ESPN’s first Super Bowl. There is a lot of energy around the program right now and we’re just getting started.
