Three (3) things get you a job in this industry: Technical Skill (software tools & techniques), Aesthetic Skill (knowing how to visually communicate ideas) and Networking (who knows you; relationships with industry professionals -- these take time to build). In a two year program we can give you the tools to gain the first two skills which you will showcase in your portfolio (demo reel/ website). However, we can't get you the Networking -- its up to you to see out opportunities to go meet and socialize with industry professionals. -- Networking.html
The first step to Networking is to know about who's who in the industry. You can learn who's who in Austin by joining local organizations through student memberships. -- Links.html Another way to network locally is to seek an internship. -- Internships.html However, if you want to expand your job search outside of Austin, you will need to know who's who in the larger, national computer graphics community. You can learn who these people are by reading trade magazines or blogs written by the men & women working on the development & production side. I have a list of these on my instructor site, including other websites that may be helpful as you start to educate yourself about the industry. -- Links.html
Your portfolio is pretty nice. In the Entertainment industry (Films, Games, Commercials) 3D Artists jobs are specialized. In our program we train students into one of 3 specializations -- Game Art (3D Environment Modeling), Game Art (3D Character Modeling), or 3D Character Animation. When you seek work in this industry, most studios require 1-2 years experience. However, they're willing to think about hiring you if your portfolio is great. Your portfolio (demo reel or website) needs to be competitive with these job-winning portfolios -- Industry-Portfolios.html
Do you NEED to get a degree to get a job? No, not if you study professional work and make your models or animation as good as professional work. If you can get a job without a degree. If you want to get paid to do this work (3D Graphics and/or Game Art), you have to PROVE to a prospective employer that you know what is quality work, and can produce it consistently. Though there are a lot of free tutorails out there for learning the Technical skills needed, there are not many teaching the Aesthetic skills. In the end, a degree is just a training path to building a job winning portfolio. Employers don't care about your grades or your degrees. Our degree plans are designed to be as straight a path into the industry as possible. You can do it on your own, but if you need the help, our staff are all industry professionals who know what it takes to help you get a job. |
