Lesser-Known Animation Career Opportunities

By Kirk Bangstad
kirk.bangstad@theanimationschooldirectory.com
Animation School Directory Columnist

So you've managed to doodle a few superheroes that caught the attention of that cute girl in your class? This obviously means that you're destined to become the next George Lucas, right? Wrong.

I'm not saying you shouldn't shoot for the motion picture industry, but you may want to be pragmatic and look into other potential animation careers. This week's column will explore some different animation careers.

Animation Career #1--Computer Gaming

Everyone grew up playing Pac Man, Super Mario Brothers, or Doom. Computer games have continued to rise in popularity, and the quality of animation has risen by leaps and bounds. Today's games often incorporate computer-generated 3d animation, which is similar to the technology used to create the last Star Wars Movie. As the games become more popular, the need for qualified animators sharpens, as well as average salaries. Many of those looking for a computer or 3d animation career should check out the computer gaming industry.

Animation Career #2--Cartoons

This field used to be the mainstay in animation until full-length animated motion pictures came along. Cartoons are still popular among kids and many adults. In fact, their popularity has spawned a cable channel, the Cartoon Network, dedicated entirely to the genre. Because cartoons are often created with smaller budgets than movies, they are generally still made using 2d techniques which rely on drawing pictures. If you like creating in the 2d format, an animation career in cartoons may be right up your alley.

These lesser-known animation careers are really just the tip of the iceberg. If you are really interested in becoming an animator, you should enroll in a reputable animation school. While there, you'll be exposed to many more different career paths, as well as people that may help you achieve your goals.

About the Author

Kirk Bangstad is an artist manager and singer working in Chicago, IL. His previous experience includes consulting for technology companies in the Silicon Valley and serving as a field director and publicist for a statewide political campaign. Kirk holds a B.A. in government from Harvard University.