How the Visual Effects Society Connects the Global VFX Industry
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In this episode of The VFX Script Podcast, host Kurt Maclachlan sits down with Nancy Ward (VES Executive Director) and Kim Davidson (VES Global Chair and SideFX CEO) to explore the history, evolution, and global influence of the Visual Effects Society. The conversation traces the society’s journey from its founding in 1997 to its standing today as the entertainment industry’s singular organization representing the full breadth of visual effects practitioners worldwide, with more than 5,500 members across 50+ countries. Nancy and Kim reflect on how the VES has grown alongside the industry, expanding regional sections worldwide while adapting to new ways of collaborating across borders.
To learn more about VES, click the link below! New membership applications close this Sunday: vesglobal.org
How has the VES evolved to meet the changing needs of visual effects professionals? Nancy and Kim discuss the society’s educational resources, including masterclasses, webinars, and the VES Handbook of Visual Effects, and explain how these initiatives support artists and technologists at every stage of their careers. They also highlight outreach programs, mentorship opportunities, and scholarships that help nurture emerging talent and strengthen the pipeline for future generations.
What role does community play in advancing the industry? The discussion turns to the VES’s broader mission of connection and recognition, from networking events and screenings to the annual VES Awards, which celebrate excellence across film, television, and new media. Nancy and Kim share behind-the-scenes insights into the organization’s collaborative culture, the dedication of its volunteers, and the value of building lasting professional relationships within the field.
Throughout the episode, the conversation also addresses the VES’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices and foster a welcoming, supportive environment for all members. Personal stories from Nancy and Kim underscore the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and recognition in shaping careers and sustaining creativity. After listening, how do you see global collaboration and community shaping the future of visual effects?
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Timestamps:
00:00:14 Podcast Introduction & Guest Welcome
00:01:04 Founding of the Visual Effects Society
00:01:39 Early Industry Context & Collaboration
00:02:49 30th Anniversary Plans
00:03:00 VES Awards Recap
00:04:58 Behind the Scenes at the Awards
00:06:19 Event Logistics & Challenges
00:08:05 Role of the Awards Committee
00:10:09 Global Nature of the VES
00:11:11 Membership Growth & Expansion
00:13:03 Member Benefits & Opportunities
00:14:11 Personal Journeys into VES Leadership
00:18:28 Volunteerism & Board Structure
00:20:47 Community Events & Engagement
00:21:13 Networking & Career Development
00:22:32 Kim Davidson’s SideFX Story
00:26:04 Business Challenges & Strategy
00:27:14 Innovation & Collaboration at SideFX
00:28:39 Current State of the VFX Industry
00:31:07 Post-Pandemic Industry Reflections
00:31:20 AI & the Future of VFX
00:33:11 Looking Ahead: VES Strategy
00:36:54 Event Capacity & Streaming
00:38:20 Community Support & Outreach
00:40:37 Education & Diversity Initiatives
00:43:13 Welcoming Environment & Final Thoughts
00:44:07 Career Highlights: Kim Davidson
00:46:44 Career Highlights: Nancy Ward
00:49:07 Episode Wrap-Up
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