SK boasts possible state, career animators

By Elisha Meyer Port Orchard Independent • March 20, 2024 1:30 am

A few tech-savvy students at South Kitsap High School are taking their skills to the state level.

Under the SkillsUSA umbrella, students in the SKHS animation program recently competed in a regional 3D Visualization and Animation competition. Students received real-time prompts to create different images or clips of animation, working with a set time limit.

The SKHS team of Mid-Knight Cable-Vitartas and Quinn Miller placed first, while teammates Bryden Hull and Devon Papa were solidifying their chances to compete at state March 22.

“We beat out the kids that have a year or two or three of experience, “ said Trish Tierney, staff advisor and high school teacher. “My classes are only a semester long, so that means that my kids have only about a semester and a half under their belt when they competed. This is a huge honor for us.”

SKHS students have opportunities inside and outside the classroom to explore 3D animation, namely the 3D Worlds and Interactive Technology club, a Career and Technical Education student organization at the school. Their works are used locally and have likely been seen in student news broadcasts and even on stage.

Behind it all is a certain level of professionalism. Quinn Miller said, “At least in class-wise, it’s obviously getting stuff turned in on time, putting your best effort into what you’re going to produce. When it comes to leading into industry, while you’re still in high school, it’d be following the production process.”

When it comes to getting better or nailing certain skills, Mid-Knight Cable-Vitartas said that some of the best knowledge comes from your teammates. “Don’t keep your knowledge to yourself,” he said. “If you can tell someone is struggling and you know how to do it a little better, I’ve learned that it’s always best to help out with that.

Miller went so far as to call it one of the more beautiful aspects of their classes and club.

State offers students a networking opportunity for future employment. If they qualify for nationals, the possibilities could be endless. Tierney said, “Some of them feel like they have found their niche, their people and possibly even a future career. Not everyone will go on to become animators, but it can also help prepare students for careers in graphic design, marketing, game design, city planning, engineering, toy modeling, machining, etc.”