The international markets embrace the training systems, and the people flock to the training institutions by the hundreds, as many of the international production houses won't even look at you unless you have a level one or level two certificate.
So much so that, in many of the recruitment ads placed in Europe, production houses specify that they are looking for a level one certificate operator, or a level two Motion operator... and don't bother applying for the job unless you have the credentials in place.
What so important about training
So what's so important about the training, and what do you get from it?
Well, the standard song and dance is that you will be taught the modules by a certified pro (trainer), who has not only read the book, but has actually used the tools he or she is teaching you, in a professional environment - not only do they have the knowledge of how the toolset works, but they have real life experience using the tools.
So, it's so much more than just: "This is a picture of what the slip tool looks like in the book, ain't it pretty?" Usually, if you are sensitive enough to the suggestions, there's a freebie tucked in - as a value-added bonus - on how they have used it on a production (how it really changed their workflow, and they were able to go home early, because of this tool).
A separate issue altogether is that the mere knowledge of the fact that such a tool exists (instead of: "NO, Final Cut can't do that") is enough for you to go and scratch through your class notes, and try and remember the really cool thing your trainer said.
This is the exact reason that I attended a training class in 2005. I had bought a FCP suite and had to hire an operator who knew the application, since I was working a different solution at the time. After getting tired of hearing "No, Final Cut can't do that", I signed up for the course, and I have never looked back.
What you get from attending formal training
So here's what you get from attending a formal training session:
The choice is yours
These are but a few reasons why you should consider investing in your skill set. The alternative? You can remain exactly where you are... doing the same things you did yesterday... feeling the same way you feel!