Meet our alumni
Matthew Losiak - 3D Modeling for Animation & Games
Original program: 3D Modeling for Animation & Games
Alumni Information
School: LaSalle College Vancouver/Dubrulle Culinary Arts
Grad Year: 2008
Program of Study: 3D Modeling for Animation & Games
Degree: Diploma
Employment/Professional Information
Company Name: Global BC
Location: Burnaby
Job Title: 3D Designer
Primary Responsibilities: 3D/2D Content Development.
Describe a typical work day:
Arrive early to grab a cup of coffee. Create graphics/video for the daily news shows and work on high priority 3D projects for Global Television.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?
During my early days in the industry, a team of designers and I at NERHIN contributed to the delivery of several 3D projects used to train soldiers in the U.S. and Canadian military. Although we couldn’t really talk about or show others the work we did, the simulation we provided saved a lot of lives, which was gratifying to know. To date, my biggest public accomplishment has been able to create the new virtual news set on Global BC, as well as provide 3D stage elements and design for the U.S. provincial election coverage.
What are your creative inspirations or influences? Who are your heroes?
I love the work of architects, Frank Lloyd Wright and Antoni Gaudi. Their attention to detail is amazing. There is nothing like going out to see a movie that has great animation or stunning VFX. You can’t help but go home or to work the next day filled with inspiration. It reminds you of why you entered the industry in the first place.
What do you enjoy the most about your career?
You get to work on something new all the time! Sometimes you get to go on pretty awesome business trips to gather reference materials for projects. Most importantly, you get to do what you love for a living, get paid to do it and inspire others through your work.
How did your education at LaSalle College Vancouver help prepare you for your career?
LaSalle College Vancouver provided all the tools, guidance, classes and quality instructors needed to become a successful graduate and long term professional designer. I landed my first industry job through the Ai portfolio show and the school did a very accurate job of simulating what the industry is really like.
What advice do you have for people beginning their careers in your profession?
You have to be able to market yourself and speak confidently about the work you do. Everything from your demo reel, résumé and business cards to how you carry yourself. You want to be a complete package. Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn, especially at the beginning. Let companies know exactly what kind of value you bring to the table. Remember that nobody will be able to sell yourself better than you!
Your profession is constantly evolving, from the technology you use to new career opportunities that didn’t exist five years ago. What trends do you see on the horizon that will affect how you do your job or your profession at-large?
Companies are constantly looking for new ways to cut production costs. More processes are being automated and templated than ever before. It is important to keep your knowledge and skills up to date. Constantly practise your craft to stay on top of your game so you keep that edge companies continuously need.
