I am a creative and technically driven Computer Animation student at Sheridan College, with experience in 3D animated shorts, VFX production, and real-time art/FX. I enjoy solving problems, creating procedural workflows, automating simulation pipelines, and developing custom productivity systems using Python and Notion. I am passionate about pushing visual boundaries and collaborating across disciplines to deliver high-impact results on schedule. I thrive in collaborative settings, bridging art and technology to bring ideas to life on screen. My favorite projects involve pushing the limits of real-time visuals and building efficient pipelines that empower teams to ship high-quality work on tight deadlines.

Xinyu Cai

I am a creative and technically driven Computer Animation student at Sheridan College, with experience in 3D animated shorts, VFX production, and real-time art/FX. I enjoy solving problems, creating procedural workflows, automating simulation pipelines, and developing custom productivity systems using Python and Notion. I am passionate about pushing visual boundaries and collaborating across disciplines to deliver high-impact results on schedule. I thrive in collaborative settings, bridging art and technology to bring ideas to life on screen. My favorite projects involve pushing the limits of real-time visuals and building efficient pipelines that empower teams to ship high-quality work on tight deadlines.

Next availability:
May 1, 2026

I am a creative and technically driven Computer Animation student at Sheridan College, with experience in 3D animated shorts, VFX production, and real-time art/FX. I enjoy solving problems, creating procedural workflows, automating simulation pipelines, and developing custom productivity systems using Python and Notion. I am passionate about pushing visual boundaries and collaborating across disciplines to deliver high-impact results on schedule.

I thrive in collaborative settings, bridging art and technology to bring ideas to life on screen. My favorite projects involve pushing the limits of real-time visuals and building efficient pipelines that empower teams to ship high-quality work on tight deadlines.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

VFX Artist (Freelance) at Crash Landing Studio
September 1, 2023 - April 1, 2025
Implemented complex cloth and hair simulation for characters, developed pyro and water FX shots to meet high-quality production standards. Collaborated with cross-functional teams using Git to ensure consistent delivery of VFX shots on schedule. Tools: Houdini, Blender, Hair & Cloth Simulation, Pyro/Water Simulation, Lighting & Rendering Automation & Workflow. Projects included Cloth Simulation Pipeline Automation and asset-export scripting to optimize production workflow.
Team Leader, Sheridan Animation at Sheridan College
January 1, 2025 - Present
Led a 14-member cross-functional team to produce a 1-minute film under a 7-day deadline. Delivered the final cut one day ahead of schedule, earning faculty commendation.
Class Representative at Sheridan College
September 1, 2024 - June 1, 2025
Served as the primary liaison between faculty and students to resolve challenges and optimize the learning environment. Coordinated with other representatives to organize industry screenings and guest speaker events.
Volunteer Companion at North Ridge Long-Term Care Home
December 1, 2025 - Present
Provide emotional support to senior residents, facilitate outdoor activities, and ensure safety during excursions. Practice active listening and interpersonal communication to build meaningful relationships with community members.
Volunteer at St. Michael's Parish
November 1, 2025 - Present
Provide musical accompaniment for monthly service and assist in the logistical planning of church community events.

Education

Interactive Media Management at Sheridan College
January 11, 2030 - April 13, 2026
Computer Animation at Sheridan College
January 11, 2030 - April 13, 2026
Bachelor of Animation at Xi'an Academy of Fine Art
January 11, 2030 - April 13, 2026

Qualifications

Best Real-Time Environment: Houdini Game Art Challenge 2025 (SideFx Software)
January 11, 2030 - April 13, 2026
Best Computer Animation: Sheridan Computer Animation 2024-2025
January 11, 2030 - April 13, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment