This is Tianye Zhao.

As a problem-solving, collaborative leader skilled in workflow automation and technical integration for creative production teams. My highlights are both technical accomplishments and the value delivered to artists and studios. For self-improvement, I will be focusing more on how to seamlessly integrate the tools to reduce delivery time and enable new creative possibilities with technology.

I use my expertise in pipeline automation and deep knowledge of visual effects software for optimizing studio workflows and increasing production efficiency. Known for leading the successful integration of USD-based pipelines across multiple projects, I consistently deliver scalable and reliable VFX solutions. Using a collaborative and problem-solving mindset, I contribute to the advancement of creative technology, by providing innovative tools and seamless pipeline support. Through my commitment to quality and continuous learning, I believe in empowering artists and technical teams when I serve VFX studios and production companies.

• Advanced programming and scripting abilities, especially in Python and C++, to develop, maintain, and integrate pipeline tools and software solutions smoothly across departments.
• Deep understanding of the entire VFX production pipeline, including the roles, workflows, and software (e.g., Maya, Houdini, Nuke), to identify technical needs and solve production problems efficiently.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work closely with artists, supervisors, and R&D teams, ensuring technical needs are met and workflows are optimized for maximum efficiency and creative output.

Transforming complex VFX production challenges into seamless, automated pipeline solutions that empower artists to focus on creativity, accelerating project delivery without sacrificing quality through innovative technology and collaborative leadership.

• Skills: Python, Houdini, Nuke
• Date: 2025-10-09
• Collaborators: Patrick Dawkes (Pipeline Archtect)
• Things learned: Python API, event callbacks and user interface design for render node.
• Accomplishments: facilitates Universal Scene Description rendering process between Houdini and Nuke by developing a render node for chainable renders on farm.

• Skills: C++, Python, Houdini
• Date: 2024-07-16
• Collaborators: Nemanja Stavric (Computer Graphics Supervisor)
• Things learned: Universal Scene Description composition arcs, Python API and user interface design for LOP node in Houdini.
• Accomplishments: enables the artists to be able to change the Universal Scene Description asset version in shot context by developing a LOP node in Houdini.

• Skills: Python, Maya
• Date: 2024-10-22
• Collaborators: Dan Raileanu (Assistant Technical Director)
• Things learned: event callbacks in Maya
• Accomplishments: designs an event callbacks system in Maya, which allows inheriting global Maya callbacks and registering customized Maya callbacks upon show request.