Today we're catching up with Ajay, who joins us this year as one of our new Junior Developers who are taking a year out from University to do a work placement.
Hi Ajay, welcome to the 3DW team! We might as well dive into it right away.
First question is tell me a little about yourself.
I’m currently studying at Manchester Metropolitan University, studying game art. In my studies my primary focus has been hard-surface 3D modelling. However, i do dabble in organic modelling occasionally.
I have been 3D modelling properly for about 5 years since i went to college and it's just developed further from there to be honest. During this time I have gained experience in a wide range of software, including Autodesk Maya, Adobe Suite and Unreal Engine 4/5.
I'm also looking at new software here and adapting to using 3DW'S in house software Topaz as i can really see the power it has to build real-time solutions. I’m always learning new software but since starting at 3DW I'm trying to master the art of scale and accurate representation of large structures is allowing me to further refine my skills for both my course and career.
So what interested you in doing the course you are taking?
Primarily, my family saw my interest since I was young and suggested the idea of maybe trying to work in games. I’d always mess around with similar things, such as making levels within already established games such as Halo 3’s Forge/Level Editor.
I've been creating mini-games like Jenga or hide-and-seek for other players to enjoy. Eventually, I was led steadily towards that industry when it came time to apply for college, where I continued to university, becoming another stepping stone towards acquiring a foothold within the 3D industry.
What do you think are the benefits of doing a work placement?
Probably the main ones are learning to collaborate and learning from other professionals in the sector who have more experience than me. Also doing a work placement gives me an understanding of how the industry works and how I should go about learning the various techniques and skills required to be in a business such as 3DW.
In my opinion, the work world as such isn't effectively replicated within the educational setting, so doing a work placement allows me to grow and build my skills.
What are you looking forward to at 3DW?
Learning as much as i can about 3DW’s modelling software is the main focus for me personally. I want to be able to be able to provide a useful input into the projects that are happening in the company and do my very best to master the unique tools. I want to provide a substantial benefit to 3DW and also myself, instilling the skills to adapt effectively within the team and software.
Over the next 12 months, what are your goals at 3DW?
Developing my skills in 3D within an established company, absorbing all the necessary learnings when dealing with live projects on a consistent basis, while always maintaining a level of high quality. I’d love to be at a point where I can take on more responsibility and be seen as someone who adds real value to the team, as well as provide support towards refining the company’s efficiency in relation to their live projects.
Ajay thank you for taking the time to sit down with me and answer a few questions, we're delighted to have you on board and look forward to seeing your work over the next year.
See you in the next one
K