Scott Saltsman has been a professional designer in advertising and entertainment for more than 20 years. Working with the likes of Warner, SONY, Verizon, Qualcomm, and the creator of Spiderman and X-Men, Stan Lee, he is a master illustrator, designer, and art director. This summer, students in grades seven through 12 will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from his experiences as he shares his talents and skills in UCR Extension’s new youth program, “Tech UC: Video Game Design.”
This program could inspire game-loving students to start thinking about a future career. Two workshops are being offered at the UCR Extension Center in Riverside from July 23-27, and at UCR Palm Desert from July 30 to August 3. Scott will walk students through the creative process and instruct them in the use of state-of-the-art software that goes into the development and design of video games.
Scott creates a real-world design studio experience in this program. Not only does he introduce students to professional-level software used in the industry, he also guides them by sharing his unique insights derived from personal experiences working with the top entertainment firms in the industry.
Aspiring designers will learn the history of video games, how to design original characters, and what goes into developing storylines. Scott will also cover basic motion graphics and special effects using acclaimed industry software “Adobe Animate,” and guide students in the creation of a basic-level game for presentation and critique. By the end of the week, students will have developed actual portfolio samples — helpful for getting one’s foot in an entry-level position or internship.
Students will learn the importance of the “creative teamwork” required in the entertainment and design industry. They will also leave the program with a solid understanding of the role game design plays, and just how it may impact their future! The global games market is projected to reach $128.5 billion by 2020 — there’s definitely a lot of money to be made.
Loving to play video games is often the first step toward thinking about a career in the design world. Designing video games for a living is not only a fun job, it’s a great paying one! Did you know that entry-level or “junior” game designer salaries start at $61,292 per year? There is demand for developers, artists, level designers, and editors — careers that pay well over a $100,000 per year.
Sign your gamer up to spend a week this summer with a leading industry expert, and explore the possibilities of a future in design!
