Were you one of those kids that knew from the very beginningthat you wanted to make your living working in computer animation? Well, youare one of the lucky ones since most people have no idea what they want to dofor a living. Who could blame you, computer animation is just plain cool. To belisted on the credits of one of the blockbuster films by Pixar or Imageworkswould turn anyone's head. But what do you need to do to get a job in the field?



                                                                                                      

There is more to computer animation than just being able torun the software and a good technical school or community college can offer youa solid computer animation program. These programs offer you a range of courseswhich will help you hone not just your digital skills but your drawing andtraditional animation skills as well. You'll also be able to sample disciplinesranging from game design to CGI. You'll finish your program with acertification or degree in computer animation along with solid technical skills.There are a number of good programs out there that offer both two year and fouryear programs.

 

The best computer animation programs offer job placementservices so you can hit the ground running once you've got your credentials.You should be prepared to take an entry level job as the computer animationfield has grown more competitive over the past few years. While it may bepossible for you to land a computer animation job at a top studio, the odds arethat in most markets you'll be plying your trade in a more conventional way.Many industries now have the need for computer animation, from oil fieldservices to employee training. The prospect of not working for a major studioshould not deter you. You need to get your feet wet and build a group ofcontacts and entering the computer animation field via a company that is not inthe movie business is not necessarily a bad thing.

 

Before you start your job search you will need to prepare aresume and a demo reel or portfolio. Your school can probably help you in thisregard. In fact, many programs produce a demo reel as project in one of yourfor credit classes. You should seriously consider taking an internship whileyou are completing your coursework. This will not only help you learn your tradebut it will help you build valuable contacts that can come in handy during yourjob search.

 

As you start to look for a job you should call on anycontacts you have made that might be able to point you in the right direction.Assuming you have done your homework and studied hard in school these peoplewill be more than happy to help. Bone up on your interviewing skills and makesure you do some background research before you walk into an interview. All therules that apply to a typical job search apply here, no matter how good yourcomputer animation skills.

 

Above all, keep a positive attitude and maintain your selfconfidence. You will be animating your way to fame and fortune in no time.