Preparing individuals from underrepresented communities for technical careers
Organized by the ASWF Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, the Summer Learning Program provides practical skills and mentorship to members of underrepresented communities who are looking to explore technical careers in animation and visual effects (e.g. R&D Engineer, Pipeline Technical Director, Color Scientist). The program is completely online/remote and includes self-guided online lessons and group sessions with guest speakers.
Participants are also matched with an industry professional for one-on-one mentorship. Past mentors have included professionals from DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic, Netflix, Amazon Web Services, Pixar and Autodesk.
SLP graduates have gone on to pursue technical careers at DreamWorks, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Epic Games, Jellyfish Animation, Microsoft, AWS, Technicolor Creative Studios, and more.
The 2024 Summer Learning Program ran from June 16 – August 9, 2024 and included 20 participants from around the globe that identify as a minority or a member of any underrepresented community including BIPOC, Transgender, LGBTQIA+, Women, and Neurodivergent, among others.
Details for the 2025 Summer Learning Program will be announced early next year.
If your organization or school is interested in working with us, please contact us to explore opportunities.