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30th Annual Communicator Winners are Announced   SEE MORE

Juror Spotlight

Julie Womack, Creative Video Motion Graphics Manager, PwC

With over 25 years of experience in visual communications, Julie is a passionate and innovative problem solver. Holding a B.F.A. in Computer Animation, her unique professional journey began as an active-duty Marine Corps combat photographer, lending her a unique perspective. She also held roles in video games and digital marketing.  As an accomplished animation producer and director, Julie’s resourcefulness and passion shine, coupled with her adeptness in leading cross-functional teams within agile, remote environments. Committed to mentorship, she guides aspiring creatives, and those pursuing rewarding career paths. She has proudly served on a variety of judging panels. At present, Julie’s leadership extends to award-winning, globally dispersed creative video and animation teams at PwC, solidifying her role as an impactful industry figure.

When did you know that this career was what you wanted to do?
I always knew that I wanted to do something creative, I just had to figure out what through trial and error.
Initially drawn to culinary arts due to my passion for cooking, I attended two years of culinary school. However, this path left me unfulfilled. A pivotal shift occurred when I joined the US Marine Corps as an active-duty combat photographer. I learned photography and Photoshop and learned action, timing, composition, and the art of evoking emotions through imagery during my service. There wasn’t much to do on base, so I sketched, played video games, and watched a lot of movies. I would lose myself in an exceptional story with amazing visuals and I realized the value of impactful storytelling. This revelation awakened my passion for not only seeking entertainment but for others as well. This epiphany propelled me toward video and animation, where I could weave tales that transcend the bounds of reality and bring the extraordinary to life.

What does a typical day look like for you?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is the constant stream of fresh and creative challenges each day brings. After my critical coffee fix, I kickstart my morning by checking in with our production teams across the network of PwC firms and adapting strategies as needed. Proactive and consistent communication helps to keep everything on track in a dynamic environment. The heartbeat of my role lies in orchestrating the entire spectrum of production of various animation projects, from the initial stages through post-production.

How do you stay up to date in your industry?
I love learning! Enrolling in classes is an excellent method for cultivating targeted skills, and the multitude of online options available today makes upskilling more accessible than ever. Industry conferences serve as valuable platforms for gaining insights into cutting-edge technologies, prevailing trends, and exciting ongoing developments. These conferences offer a fabulous opportunity for networking, allowing you to establish connections and absorb knowledge from diverse professionals occupying various roles within the industry.

What’s one of the greatest innovations you have seen in your industry?
The fusion of interactivity with animation has always fascinated me. Whether it materializes through video games or immersive online and real-time encounters, the joy of engaging directly with my creations is exhilarating! Virtual reality has greatly advanced in the past few years, particularly in the entertainment and gaming realms. I’m very excited to see how much more the evolution of VR will advance as the technology that supports it continues to improve.

We’re celebrating 30 years at The Communicator Awards. What were your favorite 90s movies?
I was hooked on animation from the moment my parents first let me watch television! 3D computer-generated animation opened up a whole new world of possibilities in the 90’s and has continued to improve all forms of visual storytelling to this day. “Toy Story” (1995) left a profound impression on me as it revolutionized the animation landscape by showcasing the potential of 3D graphics in feature films. In 1993, “Jurassic Park” married practical effects with CG and blew me away as I watched realistic dinosaurs interact with live-action actors and environments. These were just the beginning of an exciting new cinematic era.

What are you looking for in entries to the Communicator Awards this season?
Whether it’s technical execution, narrative, visual aesthetics, or even a surprising touch of humor, I’m captivated by distinctive perspectives. The allure lies in being amazed by novel concepts. Creativity can manifest in diverse ways, and I eagerly anticipate the imaginative wonders that talented individuals envision each year. I hope to be genuinely impressed by every submission, encouraging everyone to astound me with their ingenuity and creativity.

When you enter work into The Communicator Awards, it lands in front of AIVA Jurors like Julie.
Time is running out! Submit your projects before the Extended Entry Deadline on March 15th.

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