Kaya McWilliams
Los Angeles
Summary
Creative prop fabricator and designer with extensive experience in interactive art installations and prop design, skilled at transforming innovative concepts into tangible realities. Expertise in both craftsmanship and 3D software during the creation of visually captivating designs. Committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity while delivering exceptional results in dynamic, collaborative and immersive environments.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Prop Tech
Knott's Berry Farm
Buena Park, CA
07.2023 - Current
- Assisted in fabricating set props of various sizes based on concept designs for up to 12 venues in a season.
- Supported installation of seasonal decorations throughout the park while adhering to building codes and inspection requirements for guest safety.
- Implemented effective inventory management strategies to ensure organized transport and maximize storage capacity.
- Facilitated timely delivery of props by schedule and assisted in the collection and return process.
Craft Installation Production/Team Member
Coachella Art Studios
Indio, CA
01.2022 - 04.2025
- Performed setup and teardown of basic production sets, focusing on efficient and accurate execution.
- Conducted trend analysis to predict future developments while sourcing materials from digital resources and repurposing local community assets.
- Experimented with a diverse array of materials to craft stylish accessories suitable for festival attendees, providing instruction for creators of all skill levels.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline assembly processes and improve productivity over a course of months.
Prop Fabrication Intern
Flix FX
North Hollywood, CA
05.2023 - 07.2023
- Supported the fabrication and transport of set pieces, adhering to project timelines for various IP-themed initiatives.
- Acquired insights and practical strategies from experienced prop masters, focusing on mastering technique to pull off fabricating independently.
- Analyzed complex problems and developed effective solutions to improve operational efficiency.
- Mass produced items for installations of over 50 locations ensuring quality at industry detail standards.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Experience Design and Production
California Institute of The Arts
Valencia, CA05-2026
High School Diploma - Theater Arts
The School of Arts And Enterprise
Pomona, CA05-2022
Skills
- Adobe Illustrator
- Scenic painting
- 3D printing
- Blender
- Vectorworks
- Experience using PPE
- Model making
- Rhino 3D
- AutoCAD
- Skilled in resin and epoxy techniques
- EPS carving
- Paper mache crafting
- Sculpting
- Fiber arts
- Analytical problem-solving
- Strong attention to detail
Awards
2022-2026 Roy O. Disney Scholarship Recipient, 2020 2nd Place Recipient for Fullerton College Theater Festival for Scenic Design Category
Timeline
Prop Tech
Knott's Berry Farm
07.2023 - Current
Prop Fabrication Intern
Flix FX
05.2023 - 07.2023
Craft Installation Production/Team Member
Coachella Art Studios
01.2022 - 04.2025
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Experience Design and Production
California Institute of The Arts
High School Diploma - Theater Arts
The School of Arts And Enterprise