A Whole New World: Q&A with 3D Visualization Specialist Souheil Abdesselam
An image is worth a thousand words. Gray’s visualization specialists know this to be true, creating renderings & animation storyboards— from color tones and seasons to specific building features— to bring the most complex of projects to life.
When Gray and Qcells, one of the world’s largest and most recognized photovoltaic (PV) manufacturers, were running on a tight schedule over the holiday season, Souheil Abdesselam, 3D visualization specialist, dedicated countless hours to creating a rendering that to represent the monumental project. The rendering went viral on social media, being directly tied to well-known media outlets including the Wall Street Journal and New York Times.
We sat down with Souheil to learn more about the Qcells rendering and a day in the life of 3D design.
Describe your normal workday–your “day in the life.”
I’m on a hybrid schedule but work mostly at the office. I usually start the day with 20 minutes of physical exercise outside. It wakes me up in the best way possible! Then, I get my espresso and head out to the office.
Depending on time and priorities, I always try to talk to the design managers before I proceed with work. I want to know what they like art-wise, as it serves me in creating a storyboard that will later help me create renderings and animations. Post-process and last steps will typically come the following day, where I can fully deliver the best image possible.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I like the fact that each time I work on a new project, I have the opportunity to create a whole new world around it. It’s never a template that I can apply over and over again, but always a completely new idea. I also enjoy the teamwork and feedback I receive, which allows me to push myself to the highest standard possible.
Nice work on the Qcells project rendering! How was the process of working over the holidays to put the image together?
When the project team asked us to put the rendering together, the time was tight. Design was progressing and the project announcement was planned for after the holidays. I teamed up with two colleagues who helped me with the site portion of the facility and we worked as much as we could. My goal was to deliver a spectacular rendering that would do justice to the project. It was really good to learn the customer was happy with it. It made my day. It was a great experience!
What has been your most memorable experience since being a part of the Gray Family?
The Annual Meeting. It was fantastic! It’s been a while since I have been around that many people. The atmosphere was great all around.
What do you think sets Gray apart from other service providers in the industry?
The fact that we deliver the best in everything we do.
In one word or phrase, how would you describe Gray?
Strong vision and good culture.
What’s the most valuable advice you’ve ever been given?
My dad was a great inspiration to me. He would always tell me, “Do your best and if it doesn’t work, do more. And never stop being positive.”
For more information on joining the Gray family, visit https://www.gray.com/careers/