You'll almost certainly have to go through a contracting company. Regardless of what they tell you, this is not a "contract to hire position". VML will take their sweet time bringing you on full time and will only do so if forced. Dealing with a contracting company is not desirable and should be avoided at all costs. If you're talented and well known, you should refuse any position which is not a direct hire. VML will "change the rules" if they have to.