This years CGFX speaker line-up is packed with some of the most talented and experienced professionals in the CGI and VFX industry. Our speakers will share their insights and expertise on everything from the latest trends and technologies to their own personal career journeys.
The currently confirmed Line-Up for Tuesday is listed below:
TUESDAY | Location: Palmerston Lecture Theatre
13.30 – 14.15 Polly Hickling | SMPTE
Our very own Polly Hickling will be returning to Solent to talk more about the work of SMPTE. Working in academia for 13 years, Polly has spent the majority of her career delivering Media Technology graduates to the industry whilst working as the course leader for Solent Universities Media Technology programme. This involved orchestrating the curriculum design through several iterations, always working closely with industry to meet their technical needs as well as aligning with higher education pedagogy. This close relationship with industry allowed for many student opportunities to be developed whilst they studied and ensured 100% employment rate into industry for several of the course titles within the programme.
During the last few years Polly has focused on resolving the educational pipeline as well as diversity and inclusivity. This has seen her sit on boards for several organisations. SMPTE, as Education Director and a SMPTE UK Manager, IET Media Network Committee member, the Head of Education for Women in Streaming Media and a Rise Up Champion. Her main output within these roles is around delivering education focussed meetings, events and initiatives.
Since September 2022 Polly has been working as the Learning and Development Lead for Media at Eviden. This role sees her tackling the knowledge and skills gap from within industry. In particular Polly is developing accessible learning strategies that amalgamates the knowledge needed for technology transformation project delivery.
During the last few years Polly has focused on resolving the educational pipeline as well as diversity and inclusivity. This has seen her sit on boards for several organisations. SMPTE, as Education Director and a SMPTE UK Manager, IET Media Network Committee member, the Head of Education for Women in Streaming Media and a Rise Up Champion. Her main output within these roles is around delivering education focussed meetings, events and initiatives.
Since September 2022 Polly has been working as the Learning and Development Lead for Media at Eviden. This role sees her tackling the knowledge and skills gap from within industry. In particular Polly is developing accessible learning strategies that amalgamates the knowledge needed for technology transformation project delivery.
14.15 – 15.00 Jake Cooper | Storyland Studios
Jake is a graduate from the Film and Television course at Solent University. In 2023, after his graduation, Jake proudly joined the team at Storyland Studios as a Design and Production Intern. Here, Jake works alongside Location-Based Entertainment industry professionals, providing support to the Project, Business Development and Marketing teams. Jake has always been an avid Theme Park and Experience enthusiast and is happy to share his passion with others!