BY GABRIELLE
Animax Designs, creators of animatronic and interactive characters, costumes and puppets, has unveiled a new, industry-leading technical design team, as the company continues to establish itself as a leader in themed entertainment innovation.
Chris Lee has been appointed director of technical design, and will work alongside four other talented individuals who will serve as managers of the technical design team.
The technical design managers include, Thomas Ring, a veteran in the animatronics industry, Michael Shupbach, a master puppeteer with more thn 20 years’ experience in the industry, Paul Fly, former assembly manager at Animax Designs and a classically trained sculptor, and Tommy Schatz-Thompson, a seasoned fabricator, rigger, animator and award-winning director.
Talking about the direction that will be provided by Chris Lee as director of Technical Design, Steve Andersen, vice president of operations, said: “It’s the combination of career and personal experience that made Chris a standout candidate for the director position. He has a unique skillset that will assist us in our rapid growth as we continue to innovate the future of animatronics.”
Lee brings almost three decades of experience leading award-winning teams, including chief technology officer of Anode Inc. and senior product owner at The Dalton Agency.
Animax Designs’ new director of Technical Design commented on the appointment: “I’m excited to bring my experience in digital storytelling, product management, and guest experience to the Animax family.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this dedicated and resourceful team of Technical Design Managers as we work to advance our company’s capabilities and processes. It’s a dream come true to be a part of such a talented group of creative professionals working together to bring characters to life.”
Chuck Fawcett, president and CEO of Animax said, “It has taken 30 years of continuous growth and building significant scale to afford us this opportunity, and Chris has the ideal credentials to lead us there!
“The level of complexity in the characters we are now designing and building, requires a team to help drive non-conventional thinking, while at the same time understanding the fundamental components required in bringing three dimensional characters to life in the most life-like ways.
“The addition of Chris Lee and team is a unique approach in the industry and one we believe will keep Animax Designs ahead of the competition,” Fawcett added.
