A foundry for filmmakers in Southwest Missouri.
The Ozarks Film Foundry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2022 to cultivate a thriving film industry in Southwest Missouri. We connect filmmakers with essential resources, professional training, and networking — and engage the public through screenings, workshops, and festivals.
Through our creative hub, The Film Foundry, and our industry-facing arm, the Southwest Missouri Film Office, we support local productions and visiting filmmakers alike — positioning the Ozarks as a destination for independent storytelling and media production.
Meet the team
The Foundry is powered by volunteers and contractors from film, business, and the arts — all working toward one mission: a thriving creative industry in the Ozarks.
Monty Dobson
Screenwriter, director, and award-winning filmmaker whose work has been broadcast nationally and screened at festivals internationally.
Ken Childers
A media background spanning 40 years and 13 years leading a nonprofit. Grandson of a film and voice actor — a fact that keeps him serving the industry.
Tom Baker
Award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer; owner of Bravo Creative LLC. Leads digital outreach and training programs like the Trade Development Initiative. "Filmmaking is networking."
Board of Directors
Monty Dobson
President · since 2/2024
Terri Carr
Secretary · since 7/2025
Matt Graham
Director · since 12/2023
Adam Engebretson
Director · since 7/2025
Ken Childers
PR & Outreach Chair · since 3/2024
The Creative Council
A network of industry professionals, community leaders, and creatives who support our mission — sharing insight through surveys, backing events, and strengthening connections across the regional film community. A flexible way in for anyone passionate about film who can't commit to board membership.