Major:
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Hometown:
West Columbia, WV
Why did you choose to attend WVU?
I decided to attend WVU because it was a state school that I could afford as well as it had a law school. I first attended college to get a law degree. I discovered after my 2nd year this was not the career path for me, so WVU with its various programs, I was able to test out and explore a new direction. I found my home with in the creative arts program.
What is your profession now?
I am currently the Chief Technical Officer for Cityneon.
I oversee all the Technical/Production aspects of Cityneon and its Subsidiaries.
What is your most interesting current/upcoming project?
We have some very exciting future projects coming however I am currently working on an integrated experience of Avatar within the Gardens by the Bay Dome in Singapore. It's a Multimillion dollar project that will take you into the world of Pandora. This location will combine normal experience and exhibition technology as well as the most cutting edge Animatronics with AI as well as amazing projection mapping with breathtaking content.
How do you feel WVU and the College of Creative Arts prepared you for your career?
WVU and the College of Creative Arts really taught me how to be collaborative in a team environment as well as giving me a broad breath of knowledge about all aspects of Technical and Design. Without that base I would not have been able to bridge all the various types of entertainment that I have.
If you could give one piece of advice to incoming or current students in WVU's College of Creative Arts, what would it be?
I would say have and keep a good attitude and be willing to take a risk. When you stay positive and have a good attitude people are willing to share ideas and give advice with you. You will also be more accepting of those notes and advice. By having a good attitude you will be someone that others wants to work with and it will make you more valuable for employment after collage. Attitude is the first thing we asses when it comes to hiring a new employee, it is more important than the experience they bring. Secondly don't be afraid to take a risk, in terms of trying something new never in a safety aspect. Failing is often the best teacher so you need to be willing to try something new and not be successful. By taking the risk you will likely do or create something unique and amazing.