I am a dedicated 3D artist and digital animator currently completing my Bachelor's degree in Digital Animation & Game Design at Ferris State University. I am passionate about leading teams and developing creative projects, such as animated short films and game design. My experience spans character modeling, rigging, animation, and directing, with a focus on cohesive storytelling and artistic vision. I have also developed strong collaborative skills through leading student teams and managing projects, alongside hands-on experience with a variety of software tools including Unreal Engine, Maya, Blender, and Substance Painter. I am eager to continue growing my skills and contribute to the media and entertainment and gaming industries.

Ethan DeWaard

I am a dedicated 3D artist and digital animator currently completing my Bachelor's degree in Digital Animation & Game Design at Ferris State University. I am passionate about leading teams and developing creative projects, such as animated short films and game design. My experience spans character modeling, rigging, animation, and directing, with a focus on cohesive storytelling and artistic vision. I have also developed strong collaborative skills through leading student teams and managing projects, alongside hands-on experience with a variety of software tools including Unreal Engine, Maya, Blender, and Substance Painter. I am eager to continue growing my skills and contribute to the media and entertainment and gaming industries.

Available to hire

I am a dedicated 3D artist and digital animator currently completing my Bachelor’s degree in Digital Animation & Game Design at Ferris State University. I am passionate about leading teams and developing creative projects, such as animated short films and game design. My experience spans character modeling, rigging, animation, and directing, with a focus on cohesive storytelling and artistic vision.

I have also developed strong collaborative skills through leading student teams and managing projects, alongside hands-on experience with a variety of software tools including Unreal Engine, Maya, Blender, and Substance Painter. I am eager to continue growing my skills and contribute to the media and entertainment and gaming industries.

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Work Experience

Project Lead and Character Artist at Pistol Shrimp & Goby
May 1, 2025 - September 4, 2025
Led a team of four students to develop and complete a 3D animated short film. Wrote and directed the film, coordinating cohesive storytelling and artistic vision. Modeled high and low poly casts of characters for animation and rendering in Unreal Engine 5.
Level Design Lead and Rigging Artist at Delivery From Hermes
May 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Collaborated with a team of twenty to develop a game in Unity over a 16-week period. Developed a custom rig in Maya for the player character. Assumed role of Project Lead toward the end of the project to facilitate development and ensure timely completion.
Meat and Produce Associate at Walmart
August 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Responsible for restocking and organizing products to ensure availability and smooth operations. Developed strong multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment and gained experience in time management and prioritizing tasks under pressure.
President at Media Communications Association
May 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Led a registered student organization focused on providing insights into current trends in digital media. Facilitated events and discussions to enhance members' career readiness and understanding of the industry.
Project Lead and Character Artist at Pistol Shrimp & Goby
May 1, 2025 - September 4, 2025
Led a team of four students to develop and complete a 3D animated short film. Wrote and directed the film, coordinating cohesive storytelling and artistic vision. Modeled high and low poly casts of characters for animation and rendering in Unreal Engine 5.
Level Design Lead and Rigging Artist at Delivery From Hermes
May 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Collaborated with a team of twenty to develop a game in Unity over a 16-week period. Developed a custom rig in Maya for the player character. Took on the role of Project Lead toward the end of the project to facilitate development and ensure timely completion.
Meat and Produce Associate at Walmart
August 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Responsible for restocking and organizing products to ensure availability and smooth operations. Developed strong multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment. Gained experience in time management and prioritizing tasks under pressure.
President at Media Communications Association
May 1, 2024 - September 4, 2025
Led a registered student organization focused on providing insights into current trends in digital media. Facilitated events and discussions to enhance members' career readiness and understanding of the industry.

Education

Bachelor of Applied Science at Ferris State University
August 1, 2021 - August 1, 2025
Bachelors of Applied Science at Ferris State University
August 1, 2021 - August 1, 2025

Qualifications

Warcraft Student Art Contest Runner-Up
March 1, 2025 - September 4, 2025
Student Production Award Nominee, National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
May 1, 2023 - September 4, 2025
Warcraft Student Art Contest Runner-Up
March 1, 2025 - September 4, 2025
Student Production Award Nominee - National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
March 1, 2023 - September 4, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Gaming, Retail, Education