Nick Evans
Summary
Seasoned CFX artist with a proven track record of excellence in grooming, cloth setups, simulation, and tool development, bolstered by leadership roles within the industry. Proficient in industry-standard software including Houdini, Maya, Katana, Fyber, and Nuke, complemented by a solid foundation in computer science.
Work Experience
Sony Pictures Imageworks / CFX Technical Director, Senior
Sony Pictures Imageworks / CFX Technical Director, Intermediate
Sony Pictures Imageworks / CFX Lead
Sony Pictures Imageworks / CFX Key Artist
Sony Pictures Imageworks / CFX Technical Director, Associate
Oct 2023 - PRESENT
Aug 2020 - Oct 2023
March 2021 - July 2021
Sept 2019 - July 2020
Sept 2017 - Sept 2019
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Actively participated in grooming and cloth development processes, ensuring high-quality character appearance and realistic cloth simulations.
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Demonstrated efficiency in completing shot work tasks to meet project deadlines consistently.
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Served as department lead, actively representing the team in production meetings, resolving internal issues, and troubleshooting complex software challenges.
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Successfully debugged challenging software issues, enhancing workflow efficiency and team productivity.
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Managed regular grooming, development, and shot work responsibilities while providing mentorship and guidance to team members.
Oct 2021 - Nov 2023
LDS Motion Picture Studio, CFX Artist
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Pioneered research and development initiatives to construct an advanced grooming and simulation pipeline in a new studio without an existing pipeline.
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Spearheaded an experimental project aimed at achieving industry-leading visual effects and animation standards.
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Innovated novel solutions and methodologies to elevate groom and hair simulation tools and workflows.
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Played a pivotal role in troubleshooting intricate technical challenges, ensuring project continuity during unforeseen technical challenges.
June 2017 - Aug 2017
Legrand North America, Inc., Software Engineering Intern
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Collaborated on the development of custom software and contributed to the design of a new application, actively participating in all stages of the software development lifecycle.
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Explored new software languages while meeting project deadlines and working closely with a cross-functional team to deliver high-quality solutions.
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Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance the functionality and usability of software products, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the team.
Oct 2016 - May 2017
Brigham Young University, Virtual Reality Research Assistant
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Conceptualized and developed custom VR tutorial software funded by Lockheed Martin, demonstrating strong project management and execution skills.
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Rigged virtual avatars to accurately replicate and respond to the player's physical movements, ensuring a seamless and interactive VR experience.
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Demonstrated proficiency in VR development tools and technologies, staying up to date of industry trends and technological advances.
Sept 2014 - Aug 2015
Gideon Taylor Consulting LLC, PeopleSoft Programmer
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Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining business processes through the development of electronic form entry systems, resulting in improved data accuracy and workflow automation.
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Played a key role in the development of Rubicon, a user-friendly form creation software, contributing to its design, implementation, and testing phases.
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Provided technical support and guidance to end-users, facilitating smooth adoption and integration of new software solutions into existing workflows.
Jun 2008 - Nov 2016
Airbender Balloons, Balloon Twister
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Delighted restaurant patrons by crafting intricate and whimsical balloon animals, enhancing their dining experience with creativity and entertainment.
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Managed monthly schedules for balloon twisters, ensuring adequate coverage and efficient allocation of resources to meet business demands.
Education
May 2017
Brigham Young University, Computer Science Major, Animation Emphasis
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Hands-on experience in CFX and Rendering on two animated films.
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Proficient in Virtual Reality development, software development, and building custom tools.