Avid Technology’s Softimage Co. has announced details of its newly expanded Softimage 2008 Education Program, which offers specialized curriculums for training facilities and instructors mentoring 3D artists and animators. The company also unveiled the Softimage Graduate Program, awarding students with a free one-year commercial license of SOFTIMAGE|XSI Essentials software (valued at USMSRP $2,995) when they complete their degree or diploma from a recognized Softimage Education Partner.
‘To meet the increasing demand for SOFTIMAGE|XSI 3D artists worldwide, we’re kicking off a series of focused educational initiatives starting with the new Softimage certification program for instructors and compelling post-graduation incentives for students,’ says Marc Stevens, general manager of Softimage and VP of Avid Technology. ‘Extensive input from our educational partners has helped shape these new programs in terms of meeting the needs of both the schools and the students. There has never been a better time to teach or learn SOFTIMAGE|XSI.’
The Softimage Education Program consists of the Softimage Education Partner (SEP) Program for all education and training facilities that offer SOFTIMAGE|XSI as a learning course, and the Softimage Certified Instructor (SCI) Program, which assures all certified instructors are knowledgeable and current with the latest software technology and presentation skills. In addition to participation in the graduate program, benefits include essential training resources including tutorials, instructional content and DVD training; access to a private website and Softimage marketing materials (posters, logos, reels, etc.); early access to new versions of SOFTIMAGE|XSI software with priority link to engineers and experts; and a personalized student gallery on Softimage.com.
Softimage is hosting an Education Summit at the upcoming Game Developer Conference (GDC) in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 19 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Company execs will present the 2008 Education Program to academic leaders from all over North America. Special guest speakers from Crytek and Pandemic Studios will give their views and opinions on key education requirements to enter the 3D game market.
To subscribe to the Softimage Education Program and receive updates on training opportunities, upcoming events dates and on-line information sessions, go to www.softimage.com/education.
