When Matthew graduated with his degree in Cinema Studies, he faced an immediate dilemma: follow the majority of jobs in his field and move to a city like Los Angeles or New York or stay closer to his family and navigate Oregon’s smaller creative industry.

Unsure, Matthew moved home and worked at Target, while exploring any kind of local freelance opportunity in video production. A chance first gig as a production assistant on a livestream of a high school track meet left him hungry for more. Although freelance work proved unpredictable, Matthew’s persistence paid off when he applied to and was hired by LAIKA, a world-renowned stop-motion animation studio based in Hillsboro.

Starting as a runner, a role focused on errands and logistical support, Matthew quickly established himself as a reliable and resourceful team member. By forming connections across the 600-employee studio, he transitioned to roles with increasing responsibility, eventually becoming a production manager for animation. That role focused on managing the schedules of 40 animators, keeping productions on track, and developing creative talent.

Recently, Matthew returned to the shooting floor in a more creative role as an assistant director, where he oversees 24 physical ‘sets’ -- or fully constructed movie scenes. He loves working in the fast-paced and creative environment and feels a thrill in being employed by one of the premier stop-motion animation studios in the world. 

Q&A with Matthew

“Once I have my eyes set on something, I get obsessive about it. Professionally, that focus has been my biggest strength. I’m proud of my ability to remain locked in on my goals and formulate a clear way to achieve them, even if it means partially sacrificing my personal life along the way.

Living through some difficult times as a kid, I saw a path ahead that I didn’t want to take. That shaped me to do whatever it takes to build the life I wanted.

I think it’s that combination of focus, adaptability, and not stopping until I figured it out that has gotten me to where I am today."

“If it wasn’t for my scholarship, I wouldn’t be here today. Before I got into UO, I was looking at trade schools and community college options in my hometown. PathwayOregon changed everything. It was the catalyst that set me on this path.

I remember visiting the PathwayOregon offices often, especially as I got closer to graduation. The advisors were incredible. They helped me with resumes, cover letters, and gave me personalized advice I couldn’t get elsewhere.

Between PathwayOregon and the Cinema Studies department, I felt had a strong support system. They really set me up for success and gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities I might not have otherwise.”

"Don’t be afraid to aim high. Even if your goals seem out of reach, you owe it to yourself to pursue them fully. Whether you want to work in film or use AI to fight disease, lean into your passion.

It's responsible to probably have a safety net somehow, but like, don't think about the safety net right from the jump. You’ll never know what’s possible until you try."

More Pathway to Career Stories

Back to Top