September Industry Spotlight: Michelle Damis

Executive Director of the Oregon Media Production Association (OMPA)

Published September 17, 2026

Written by: Carolina Nascimento

Michelle Damis has built a career across many sides of the film industry, including acting, stunt work, producing, writing, intimacy coordination, and advocacy. Today, she serves as Executive Director of the Oregon Media Production Association (OMPA), where she works to strengthen and support Oregon’s film and media community.

Michelle first entered the industry through acting after an earlier career in modeling. She was cast in the first four films she auditioned for and, as she puts it, “never looked back.” Her background as an athlete and fitness professional later led her into stunt work, and during the pandemic she expanded into writing and producing.

“The more I learn behind the camera, the more I understand in front of the camera,” Michelle said.

After serving on OMPA’s board for several years and contributing many volunteer hours, Michelle stepped into the role of Executive Director nearly a year ago. OMPA has supported Oregon’s media production industry for more than 45 years, and Michelle says the organization is currently focused on advocating for federal film incentives, continuing to grow Oregon’s state incentives, encouraging additional regional incentives, and making sure more people understand what Oregon has to offer.

“We need to ensure our competitiveness on the world stage,” she said, while also “spreading the word” about Oregon’s locations, crews, creatives, and statewide industry directory.

Advocacy has been a major part of Michelle’s work through both OMPA and SAG-AFTRA. She credits her family with instilling a strong sense of service, while her own experience taught her the importance of getting involved.

“If you want to build something special, you have to roll up your sleeves, get involved, and set an example that inspires others to step up as well.”

Michelle sees one of Oregon’s biggest opportunities in simply making more people aware of what the state has to offer, from its diverse landscapes to its crews, actors, writers, directors, and film offices. She also sees significant potential in film tourism and Oregon’s Film Trail, an area she believes has only begun to scratch the surface.

Michelle’s vision for Oregon remains simple:

“My north star is ‘Oregon — the best place in the world to tell your story.’ I wholeheartedly believe that statement to be true. We have the most beautiful and diverse locations, truly gifted crew, talented actors, writers and directors, top-notch film offices, and so much more.”

And for anyone just getting started in Oregon’s film industry, Michelle’s advice is straightforward:

“Chase the experience, not the money. Money will come and go, but what you learn, remember, and experience can never be taken from you.”