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Computer Animation: High-Growth Industry

By Sarah Clark
Learning & Life Columnist
July 4, 2006

Interested in a career in computer animation? Now may be the time to consider a future as an animator. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports strong job growth among many types of animators.

According to the BLS, jobs in the motion picture and video industry are expected to grow much faster than the average growth rate for all jobs. The BLS also reports that those with technical skills, such as multimedia artists and animators, should have the best job prospects. Graphic designers with animation skills are also expected to have an edge in the job market. With that happy news, you're next step may be deciding what type of animator you'd like to become. Here are a few of the most popular jobs in animation.

Game Animator

If you've followed game animation news, you've probably noticed that games have become increasingly popular in recent years. In fact, Microsoft had trouble meeting demand for its latest Xbox game console over the 2005 holiday season. What is more, game companies are placing more and more emphasis on the quality of their animation, improving artificial intelligence and special effects.

Commercial Animator

An increasing number of graphic artists are learning about animation and its applications for web sites. Programs like Macromedia's Flash help graphic designers develop animated graphics for web sites. Animators with graphic design skills may work for an advertising agency, a graphic design firm, or a company's in-house marketing division. Commercial animators create hand-drawn illustrations and computer generated images for use on television commercials and web sites.

Hollywood Animator

Everyone is familiar with this type of animator, one who helps produce movies like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Finding Nemo. On a single Disney/Pixar production, hundreds of animators might work for several months to complete a feature-length animated film.

Animation Programs

Game animators often graduate with degrees in computer science; however, they are enrolling in game design and development programs in larger numbers. Likewise, aspiring movie animators can attend an animation program that is part of a film school, where the study of animation techniques and production can be combined. To become a commercial animator, you might attend a graphic design program where you'll refine your illustration skills and learn about computer generated image technology and web design.

Source

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development and postsecondary education.

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