West Virginia Animation Careers: Employment & Salary Trends, Job Opportunities, & Colleges Offering Animation Programs in West Virginia
Animation Careers in West Virginia Overview
West Virginia is home to some of America’s most beautiful locations. Blackwater Falls State Park, Highland Scenic Highway (Route 150) in Pocahontas County and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park are just a few. Not only does the state offer beautiful backdrops for just about any film, thanks to the West Virginia Film Industry Investment Act, filmmakers can receive up to 31 percent transferable tax credits. This competitive tool is used to recruit film industry business to the state and it applies to other projects as well including TV films and series, commercials, music videos, and commercial still photography. West Virginia is also home to at least 10 respected film festivals such as Carnegie Film Series & On Screen/In Person, West Virginia International Film Festival, and Cut to the Chase Film Festival.
While the Act, the West Virginia Film Commission, and film festivals attract filmmakers and film productions from across the country, they also promote the growth of production facilities throughout the state. As a result, there are a number of opportunities for animators with a film and video background as well. In addition to the film and video industries, West Virginia animators may find opportunities in advertising, technology, game design, graphic design, and even education. Aspiring animation instructors may find art and design programs at a number of the state’s 25 four-year or 21 two-year colleges and universities. The state is also home to hundreds of secondary schools filled with budding artists.
