Meet our alumni
Mark Van Ee - Digital Film & Video
Original program: Digital Film & Video
Alumni Information
School: LaSalle College Vancouver
Grad Year: 2008
Program of Study: Digital Film & Video
Degree: Diploma
Employment/Professional Information
Company Name: Bardel Entertainment
Location: Vancouver
Job Title: Rick and Morty Line Producer
Describe a Typical Work Day:
A typical day consists of tracking artists work across various departments to ensure we’re meeting the client's high standards and will deliver our work on time. Also overseeing Production Managers and Coordinators while assisting the crew with any questions or concerns they may have.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?
Having our team win a Primetime Emmy for Pickle Rick was an amazing experience. To even be nominated is an honour enough, but to have your team recognized for all of their hard work is truly special.
What are your creative inspirations or influences? Who are your heroes?
My greatest inspiration has always been the films themselves, while my creative influence came from my closest friends. From no-budget movies to claymation, creating something that could make people laugh has always been important to me.
What do you enjoy the most about your career?
Helping create such a well-known show watched by millions of viewers is incredibly rewarding. While it’s certainly a lot of work creating a show of such caliber, the hard work of our incredibly talented team really shows. Also, working directly with the client is especially fulfilling.
How did your education at LaSalle College Vancouver help prepare you for your career?
My time at the Art Institute (now LaSalle College Vancouver) gave me a wide array of knowledge and skills that help me better understand how the industry worked. My favorite class in particular was film history as it really helped understand where film started and how it got where it is today.
What advice do you have for people beginning their careers in your profession?
Come to work on time and have a great attitude! Being present and enjoyable to work with goes a long way in any industry, and animation is no different. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and try not to get discouraged when crunch time hits (as it always does). While keeping a positive attitude may be tough under certain circumstances, it can make all the difference.
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?
The film industry is constantly coming out with advancements in technology, both on and off set. The tools used in studio to bring a film to life are in a constant state of innovation and progression, so it’s important to stay informed on the current process, even when working on the production side.
*Updated May 1, 2019.
