Jamie Williams
About Jamie Williams
Jamie Williams is a Technical Director at Pixar Animation Studios, where he has worked since 2015. He has extensive experience in visual effects, having previously held positions at Blue Sky Studios, Hornet Inc, and New York University.
Current Role at Pixar Animation Studios
Jamie Williams has been working at Pixar Animation Studios as a Technical Director since 2015. In this role, Williams has contributed to the production of several high-profile animated films, including Lightyear, Turning Red, Luca, Soul, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, Coco, Cars 3, and Finding Dory. Williams has developed tools and workflows that improved the production pipeline, making it more accessible to artists with different levels of technical expertise. Additionally, Williams led a team of artists as a Department Supervisor, expanding responsibilities and enhancing the visual artistry standards of the projects.
Previous Experience at Blue Sky Studios
Prior to joining Pixar, Jamie Williams worked at Blue Sky Studios for ten years, from 2003 to 2013. During this time, Williams held the position of Lead Technical Director and also served as the Fur Department Supervisor from 2007 to 2009. In these roles, Williams was instrumental in advancing the studio's technical capabilities and contributed to the visual quality of animated features.
Teaching Experience in Visual Effects
Jamie Williams has experience in academia, having served as an Adjunct Professor of Visual Effects at New York University from 2000 to 2003 and again from 2011 to 2013. In these positions, Williams taught the fundamentals of computer graphics, focusing on both technical and artistic aspects. This role allowed Williams to share expertise with students and contribute to the development of future professionals in the field.
Educational Background in Mechanical Engineering
Jamie Williams studied at Columbia University in the City of New York, where they earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Mechanical Engineering from 1992 to 1996. This educational background provided a strong foundation in engineering principles, which Williams later applied to the field of visual effects and computer graphics.
Expertise in Visual Effects and Shaders
Jamie Williams possesses expertise in creating realistic shaders by studying the interaction of light with real-world objects. This knowledge has been applied to enhance the visual quality of animated feature films. Williams has also worked with various companies in the visual effects industry, including Hornet Inc, Image Design Group, and Imaginary Forces, contributing to a diverse range of projects.