PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Senior Real-Time 3D Developer, Technical Artist, and Simulation Engineer with 25+ years of experience developing immersive training systems, interactive simulations, visualization applications, and high-fidelity 3D assets for defense, multimedia, and enterprise environments. 

Specialized in bridging software engineering and visual development through expertise in Unity, Unreal Engine, C#, VR/XR environments, real-time rendering, and technical art pipelines.

Proven experience supporting large-scale defense and training initiatives through interactive simulation, real-world equipment visualization, and multimedia application development.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Real-Time 3D & Simulation
Unity 3D • Unreal Engine • VR/XR Development • Interactive Simulation • Real-Time Rendering • Technical Visualization • Digital Training Environments • Immersive Learning Systems

Programming & Development
C# • C++ • Java • Visual Studio • Desktop Application Development • Interactive Software Design • Game Systems Development

3D Production
3ds Max • VRay • Phoenix FD • ZBrush • Substance Painter • ForestPack Pro • GrowFX • PiXYZ Studio • TopoGun • Asset Optimization • PBR Workflow • Modeling • Rigging • Texturing • Rendering 

Multimedia & Content Creation
Adobe Photoshop • After Effects • Premiere Pro • Audition • Red Giant Universe • Motion Graphics • Video Editing • Audio Editing • GUI Design

Defense & Enterprise Training
Military Simulation • Computer-Based Training (CBT) • Simulation-Based Learning • Interactive Visualization • Real-World Equipment Representation

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Northrop Grumman
Senior Multimedia Developer | July 2008 – July 2026

  • Develop interactive simulation and training applications using Unity, Unreal Engine, and C# for defense and military-focused environments.

  • Create real-time 3D visualizations and immersive training systems representing real-world military equipment and operational scenarios.

  • Design and optimize high-fidelity 3D assets for simulation, VR, and interactive training applications.

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, instructional designers, artists, and software developers to deliver enterprise-level training solutions.

  • Build desktop and interactive applications supporting simulation-based learning and technical visualization initiatives.

  • Produce multimedia content including motion graphics, video editing, audio processing, and interactive GUI systems for defense-related training programs.

  • Convert and optimize CAD/NX/UG models into game-ready assets for real-time rendering and simulation environments.

  • Support the full production pipeline from concept and design through implementation, optimization, testing, and deployment.

LSI/Star Mountain
Lead Graphic Artist / Lead Programmer | April 2001 – July 2008

  • Led development of interactive multimedia applications, desktop software, and training systems for commercial and enterprise clients.

  • Designed and programmed interactive software applications using C#, C++, and Java.

  • Directed visual development and 3D asset creation pipelines for multimedia and simulation-based projects.

  • Developed GUI systems, motion graphics, and interactive user experiences for computer-based learning applications.

  • Managed multiple simultaneous development projects while coordinating production workflows and technical implementation.

  • Created photorealistic renderings, animations, and technical visualizations for presentations and digital media initiatives.

FlightSafety International
Graphic Artist | July 1998 – April 2001

  • Produced high-quality 3D graphics, animations, and visual assets supporting aviation training systems and simulation programs.

  • Developed technical visualizations and multimedia assets for interactive learning and pilot training environments.

  • Collaborated with instructional and engineering teams to support aviation-focused simulation initiatives.

EDUCATION

Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Science (BS), Game Programming & Development | June 2027 

The Art Institutes
Associate Degree, 3D Animation & Multimedia | October 1996

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Active DoD Secret Clearance

  • 25+ years of professional experience in 3D development, multimedia production, and software engineering

  • Extensive experience supporting defense simulation and training initiatives

  • Portfolio available at James Carson Portfolio