Talk us through an average day in your role
I am currently working on a project for CoSTAR National Lab – the UK’s first national lab for creative industries R&D of which Disguise is a co-partner – where my role primarily focuses on research and development. As a team, we are exploring AI workflows for virtual production/XR, which means my days are filled with researching the latest AI tools and testing them with Disguise pipelines.
How did you get started in the media industry?
I was lucky enough to land a 12-month internship at Disguise in New Zealand right after leaving university. Disguise had a partnership with Auckland University of Technology and was looking for a group of interns to create demo content using Unreal Engine, and I’ve been here ever since.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
Before I got into the industry, I earned a Bachelor of Design in Digital Design from Auckland University of Technology. I got to explore different paths—from animation and game design to visual effects—which really set me up for my current role.
My tutors were great at showing us a variety of software, so I learned how to pick the right tool for each project. That’s also when I first discovered Unreal Engine, which I still use a lot today.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
I enjoy working in the industry because, in my four years at Disguise, no day has ever been the same. The technology we work with is constantly evolving, which means I am always learning and growing, keeping my role dynamic and engaging.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
Continuously explore new technologies by trying new software and experimenting with new hardware. This will allow you to have a wide toolset that can help out in any project!
