The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world’s preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema.Although best known for its annual Oscar telecast, the Academy is involved in a wide array of education, outreach, preservation and research activities. The not-for-profit organization promotes the movie industry by recognizing excellence, fostering cultural progress, providing a forum for various crafts, and cooperating in technical research. It is best known for the annual Academy Awards in which a Britannia metal trophy (known as the Oscar) is awarded for outstanding achievement in the motion picture industry. The more than 6,000 AMPAS members (who pick the Oscar winners) represent 15 branches of the industry, including actors, directors, producers, and executives.