Christopher
How much opportunity is there for a STEM major in the entertainment industry?
My question regards the potential to find employment in the industry of entertainment (film and television) for a student majoring in a STEM field. I ask it because I have always had an interest in both of these areas, but they seem to be on opposite poles of the career spectrum. Particularly, I have an interest in computer science and software engineering on the STEM side, and something in production (VFX, SFX, writing, set prod., editing, etc.) on the side of entertainment. Is there any way I can combine the two? #college #computer-science #computer-software #film #software-engineering #stem #entertainment #vfx
3 answers
Megan Day
Megan’s Answer
It is definitely something that you can do if you are willing to work very hard and many times, for very little money. The entertainment field is a very popular place and you have to network your way in if you don't have any relatives/friends who can help you along. I started out at a production company and we literally got 10K+ resumes a week from people of all walks of life - servers to doctors and lawyers - for a lowly PA job ($150/week.) It takes time, but if you are willing to stick it out and find an area you are passionate about, you'll likely be successful.
I did it rather the opposite way. I worked in casting for movies/tv/commercials but then found that I had a gift for computers. Due to that I left LA, ended up at Microsoft and loved it so much, that I didn't go back to entertainment. I found that my creative way of thinking was just as valuable on the business side.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Megan
Ken Simmons
Ken’s Answer
Hi Christopher!
You asked a very good question. You are in luck. There are many interesting opportunities where these areas cross.
Here is a site that identifies the top 5 STEM jobs in the entertainment industry.
http://www.stemjobs.com/top-5-stem-jobs-in-the-entertainment-industry/
Here is another site that highlights more opportunities in entertainment with STEM:
https://education.ti.com/en/us/stem-hollywood
Please keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress!
Anthony V. Crivello
Anthony V.’s Answer
"I have an interest in computer science and software engineering on the STEM side, and something in production (VFX, SFX, writing, set prod., editing, etc.) on the side of entertainment. Is there any way I can combine the two?"- Absolutely. Also digital design. Check online with the Studios, especially those who do animation. Also look into Film and Television production. Do your skills include film editing? Sound Editing? Plus, there is always need for your skill set on the management/production side. Best of luck. AC