From Student to Working on AAA Games: Giancarlo's Success Story
At Vertex School, we love celebrating the success of our students. Today, we’re proud to highlight Giancarlo Aberilla, a recent Game Art Program graduate who turned his passion for 3D art into a career in the gaming industry. His inspiring journey showcases how the right curriculum, expert guidance, and portfolio can open doors to incredible opportunities.
Discovering Vertex School
When Giancarlo Aberilla enrolled at Vertex School, it was more than just a step toward enhancing his skills; it was the start of a transformative journey. A friend who graduated from Vertex’s Environment Art Program recommended it. Giancarlo saw it as the perfect opportunity to learn cutting-edge techniques, master industry-standard workflows, and connect with seasoned mentors and like-minded peers.

Airborne by Giancarlo (Term III)
A Unique Learning Experience
Giancarlo chose Vertex School over traditional four-year institutions for its unconventional and hands-on approach to learning. “It’s a big deviation from the standard learning process we expect from a traditional school setting,” he explains. At Vertex, students are encouraged to take the initiative, dedicating time outside class to research, experiment, and refine their craft. The program’s structure includes guidance from mentors who act as leads, providing support while fostering independence.
This unique approach proved transformative for Giancarlo. “I highly recommend this independent but guided learning style,” he says. “Many things I was taught in those nine months have carried over into my everyday work in the AAA industry.” Thanks to the portfolio he built at Vertex, Giancarlo secured a role working in the highly competitive world of AAA game development.

Rainy Nights by Giancarlo (Term II)
Life at Vertex School
Reflecting on his experience, Giancarlo describes his time at Vertex as life-changing. “The lessons were well-paced and flexible enough to accommodate students with jobs,” he shares. “The mentors were patient, understanding, and extremely helpful in answering all our questions.”
Beyond the classroom, Giancarlo found a supportive community of peers and mentors who enriched his learning journey. The friendships he built and the skills he honed have impacted his career and personal growth.

Ludlum Geiger Counter and Calibrator by Giancarlo (Term I)
Recommending Vertex School
Today, Giancarlo confidently recommends Vertex School to aspiring game artists. “I met great people, learned many things, and secured a great job because of it,” he states. His story is a testament to the focused, industry-driven education and the life-changing opportunities Vertex School can provide. Giancarlo’s journey from student to working on AAA games showcases how Vertex School empowers students to achieve their dreams and thrive in competitive industries.
Learn more about the 9-month Game Art Program!
P.S. The Character Sculpting for Collectibles masterclass with Ryan Kingslien and Erick Sosa is TODAY at 9 AM PST.