Overview

Ease the transition from student to industry professional by learning how to navigate an in-studio 3D animation role. Madison Erwin started her career as a 3D animator by teaching herself the ins and outs of 3D software like Blender and the workings of the animation industry. Just three years later, she’s gone on to work on projects like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, I Am Groot, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Now Madison wants to share everything she learned and did to skyrocket her 3D career to the next level. In this class, Madison will reveal how to start a 3D animation career and navigate your dream job without unnecessary stress or burnout. By learning how to vet contracts, navigate studio hierarchy, and properly handle feedback, you’ll move from a 3D animation student to an industry professional with ease. With Madison by your side, you’ll: * Craft a personalized career goal * Discover the ins and outs of contracts and studio hierarchy * Learn how to handle, implement, and ask for feedback * Build habits to maintain your energy and avoid burnout Plus, Madison will help you create a five-year plan and burnout prevention plan based on her own experience working in the 3D animation industry. Whether you’re a self-taught animator and are curious about what working at a studio would be like or you’re early on in your animation career and looking to sustain success, you’ll leave this class with the tools you need to build a solid career plan and deal with any bumps in the road as you go. You do not need professional experience as a 3D animator to take this class. You’ll need a journal and pen or your preferred note-taking system to follow along with these lessons. Instructor bio: Madison Erwin is a self-taught 3D animator based in LA. Known for her acting and animation skills, she successfully freelanced for a year before taking a role in-house at Sony. Her work has been featured in blockbuster films like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Doctor Strange, the Disney Plus Series I Am Groot, and hit game Kena: Bridge of Spirits.

Syllabus

Starting Strong in the Animation Industry

This module lays the groundwork for entering the animation industry with clarity and confidence. You’ll explore essential first steps, discover how to present yourself as a professional, and gain practical strategies for negotiating contracts that protect your interests. By the end, you’ll be equipped to navigate your entry into the studio world with confidence.

Thriving Within the Studio Environment

Once inside the studio, understanding its inner workings is crucial. This module helps you decode the studio hierarchy so you know how to interact with colleagues at every level. You’ll also learn how to handle feedback constructively, turning critique into opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Sustaining a Long-Term Career

The final module prepares you for long-term success in animation by addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges—burnout. You’ll explore practical methods for maintaining motivation and well-being while also reflecting on your learning journey. By the end, you’ll leave with a sustainable roadmap for building a thriving, fulfilling career.