Planning for Career Change - A Savvy Strategy

Does a trip to the conservatory or the English Garden fit your description of a good time? Do you feel energized standing in a field of canola? Here are some ideas for those who enjoy working with growing things - grasses, plants, shrubs, and trees. *

Want to learn more about these opportunities? Visit the Career Resource Centre at 474 University Centre.

Multi-media vs. Computer Animation
Frantic Films is a computer animation and post-production company situated in Winnipeg. An important distinction must be made between multi-media companies and organizations specializing in computer animation. Multi-media can be defined as a combination of text, graphics, sound, animation and video. A multi-media company incorporates a broad range of effects and works to stimulate two or more of your senses. Frantic Films is primarily a visual effects company. They were initially established to specialize in 3D animation, however, the company has received significant recognition for its visual effects, compositing and editing work.

Shane Davidson works at Frantic Films as an editor/compositor, although his duties are not limited to those defined by his title. Basic compositing can be described as creating and layering images and/or text to achieve a desired look. Using Frantic Films' compositing software, Shane is also able to remove unwanted objects from video or film footage. His responsibilities also include putting the final piece of work onto videotape.

A computer animated "image" is not created in one piece. Shane works together with Frantic Films' staff as a team. In conjunction with Frantic's 3D animators and artists, image sequences are created and superimposed to create the final product. All of the staff Frantic Films have a role to play in both the technical and creative processes.

Days are far from routine at Frantic Films. Shane says that there are some periods when employees are required to work 72-hour shifts in order to meet deadlines. Working around the clock is definitely not a foreign concept to these people!

There are many pros and cons to working in this industry. Long days are part of the package. There are times when projects just show up on the doorstep with deadlines set by the client. No matter how tight the timeline, the deadline must be met. The small size of the post-production industry plays a role. In a community as small as Winnipeg, companies have to work hard to maintain their reputation. Reliability is key and any loss of credibility can lead to loss of business. The pressure is always on to perform at the highest and most efficient level. Creativity in a pressure cooker can be difficult.

Shane emphasizes that the very factors that may make the job undesirable to some are the ones that give him a sense of satisfaction. He finds the creative aspects of his job very fulfilling. He has the opportunity to apply his creative knowledge while using the latest computer technology available. Routine is not in the vocabulary. If you are looking for fast-paced change, Shane says this is the field to consider.

Surprisingly, it is not imperative that you have computer experience to work at this company. Most of the employees at Frantic Films are hired on the basis of their artistic merit. At that point, the employers attempt to get the artist to apply those artistic skills on the computer. Indeed, computer knowledge is an asset, but not mandatory. Many who work in the field of computer animation have a college background. Shane cautions that a degree does not guarantee a job. Prospective employees would be well advised to stress the unique aspects of their work.

Shane feels that the current labour market conditions are good in Manitoba. A lot of business is coming to the province as a result of tax incentives offered by the government. He feels that the opportunities are plentiful in this growing industry.

Seven years ago, as someone with an ardent interest in acting and the media and a first year university student, Shane volunteered at Channel U. He gained a lot of public relations experience that serves him well today. He then began work at a multi-media company where he did voice-overs for some interactive kiosks. He recommends connecting with an organization called Video Pool. Members are able to rent different types of video equipment for a fraction of the regular cost. Students can also volunteer at Videon.

Shane feels that his experience was typical of many students - he didn't anticipate that he would be doing what he currently does for a living. He advises students to thoroughly research different career paths and encourages them to scout out the "right" people for advice. Be persistent and tenacious in your pursuit of a particular career path.

Does thinking about your career make you feel:

Discouraged? Anxious? Disorganized?     Fatalistic? Resentful? Overwhelmed?

"I probably won't be able to get a good job." Or "I won't be able to make a good decision. "It's difficult going to talk to a counsellor or getting information." "I picked up a booklet at the Counselling Office and I mean to make an appointment, but I haven't gotten around to it." " There's no use in planning these things; whatever happens, happens." "I already have all this work to do, and now they expect me to plan my career as well?" "There is too much work involved in career planning. I don't have the time or energy!"

These are normal challenges that you deal with in other parts of your life, whether it is making the team or getting ready for a test. You can deal with your feelings and get on with the job! Here are some tips:

1. Start out with a small step that is easy for you. If you like to talk to people, talk to a friend, family member or counsellor about your career questions. If you prefer reading, get a book from the library or counselling centre.

2. Don't be discouraged by talk of unemployment. Right now, the outlook is for very healthy growth in jobs over the next few years. In some sectors, employers are desperate for skilled workers.

3. Try to develop an attitude of expecting that things will work out. A positive attitude helps motivate you to try things and leads to success.

4. Realize that you are not alone in feeling uneasy about your career. Most of us have our moments of doubt.

5. Make use of cost-free school and community career resources. When you are out of school, you may pay over $100 an hour to talk to a career specialist!