Learn More About After Effects Classes in Washington, D.C.
As the industry-standard software for motion graphics, Adobe After Effects is a graphics and animation powerhouse. This tool drives the effects for everything from web videos to feature-length films. With Adobe After Effects, you can animate a storybook, create a 3D visual effect, develop a character rig using the Puppet Pin tool, and combine multiple media sources to tell a compelling visual story.
Bundled with the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, After Effects offers deep integrations with popular tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and more. After Effects lets you design effects from scratch or select from a multitude of visual effects available in the software’s library. With practice and experience, you can learn how to produce Hollywood-quality video effects.
Washington, D.C. Industries that Use After Effects
Washington, D.C. media companies, like The Washington Post and Fox News Media, will hire Video Editors, Motion Graphics Designers, and Animators as part of their digital and social teams. Professionals might work on broadcast segments, social media video campaigns, or as a means of digital storytelling for news outlets. After Effects is also used for branding material for the company in the form of web content and online ads.
Advertising
D.C.-based advertising agencies hire Animators and Motion Graphics Designers who are proficient in After Effects. They often work for companies like DCI Group, Bluetext, and Taoti Creative, which are all advertising agencies that create motion graphics and animated branding content. Agencies creating video content for digital ads, social media videos, and other branded content prefer to add animation and visual effects for added interaction between the company and the consumer.
Government
The most obvious industry in Washington, D.C. is, without a doubt, government. In the nation’s capital, After Effects professionals like Animators and Motion Graphics Designers can find work among government agencies such as the U.S. Federal Reserve Board for media and digital communications work, such as educational video content. On the other hand, many After Effects-relevant roles work for organizations like the Smithsonian Institution. They also work for public service organizations and nonprofits all across D.C, and government contractors like Booz Allen Hamilton. Truly, there are many unique ways to find work in D.C. as an After Effects professional.
After Effects Careers in Washington, D.C.
Used in virtually every major film or video production, After Effects is an essential tool for Animators, video editors, and content creators. In the Washington, D.C. area, 2D Animators and video editors earn higher-than-average pay—up to 30% more than the national average. Animators in D.C. can work for places like Trivision Studios, a full-service production studio that mainly handles corporate, documentary-style, and branding video work.
You could also pursue a career as a Motion Graphics Designer. These “Mograph” pros can work as part of a design team alongside Animators, Creative Directors, Concept Artists, and others, or they can choose a life as a freelancer, taking on the projects that interest them most. Freelancers can have the best of both worlds while working and living in a place like D.C.
Many Social Media Marketers learn After Effects because it’s such a useful tool for creating logos, graphics, and animated digital content. This applies to Digital Marketers too, who value having a consistent online brand presence. Marketing and advertising agencies like Bluetext hire Social Media Managers to offer the best in web, social media, and digital marketing services.
Moreover, you could explore a career as a Video Editor. Although After Effects doesn’t directly allow users to edit video, it can integrate with Premiere Pro seamlessly. Having After Effects training is an extra set of skills that really makes a difference in video editing. Many Video Editors work for companies like Interface Media Group.
In-Person After Effects Classes in Washington, D.C.
Noble Desktop has several After Effects learning opportunities, such as the Motion Graphics Certificate. This 96-hour course provides a deep dive into After Effects and Premiere Pro, among other tools. Students will learn to animate motion graphics and create visual effects by using techniques like rotoscoping, motion tracking, and greenscreen removal. In addition, students will also create 3D models and learn the basics of video editing. Once comfortable, students will move on to learn more advanced motion graphics techniques, with 3D layers, cameras, and lights in After Effects.
Students could also explore the After Effects Bootcamp, which is 18 total hours of instruction on the basics of animation. Projects include things like infographic animation, title and logo animation, as well as medical animation. This means students will learn how to use timeless animation principles, utilize masks, and combine animations with audio. The practical experience will give students the confidence and skills needed to create compelling video content.
Lastly, students can take After Effects in a Day. This is a quick, six-hour introduction that really lives up to the name. Students will leave feeling confident in their ability to perform basic After Effects techniques, like layer animation. Moreover, students will leave completely familiarized with the user interface and feel well-equipped to take on the next After Effects course, whether that’s AI for Video & Motion Graphics or After Effects Compositing, Tracking, & Keying.
Corporate & Onsite After Effects Training in Washington, D.C.
The creators of this tool offer solutions for reskilling and upskilling your employees. In addition to their existing curriculum, they offer custom programs and onsite and corporate After Effects training. Our curriculum can be customized to fit your needs.
Maybe you need to upskill employees on a particular aspect of the software, or you need to develop their proficiency to improve productivity and effectiveness. Whatever your training needs, our instructional consultants can work with you to develop the right solution. You can contact Noble Desktop to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Learn From Noble Desktop’s Experienced After Effects Instructors in Washington, D.C.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a hub for government, public service, and major organizations, which means there’s ample opportunity for professional development. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge in the field of tech, data, business, or design, you can explore training options available to both individuals and federal professionals. Classes are right in the heart of the city, offering knowledgeable instructors with decades of combined training and a wide range of specializations. From their real-world experience in the field, these instructors provide valuable insights that help students get comfortable while learning the material. Not to mention, the skills they develop in the classroom are practical and transferable, meaning students can put their newfound knowledge right to work.
Training with Noble Desktop’s team is easy with the modern facilities located at 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20024. It’s mere steps away from L’Enfant Plaza and offers an array of benefits, like a professional yet welcoming environment and a modern workspace. Getting there from anywhere in D.C. is straightforward, whether by Metro, bus, or car. L’Enfant Plaza is served by multiple Metro lines, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. Those driving can also access parking garages that are easily within walking distance.
After Effects enables motion graphics, animated titles, and visual effects that make messages more engaging. Students learning at Noble Desktop will gain hands-on experience working directly with instructors who use these tools to build clear, dynamic visuals for presentations, videos, and digital campaigns. Learning at this school also offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, with classes led by expert instructors who can help you acquire skills that get you ready for the real world.
Brian Simms
Brian is an educator and training leader passionate about helping professionals grow in fields like project management and AI. He designs adaptive learning programs that combine instructor-led sessions, live online experiences, and self-paced study, making training practical and within reach for anyone. Brian’s work also centers heavily around AI integration, particularly in training situations to show organizations how easy it can be applied to the workplace, showing ways to tackle real-world problems, enhance leadership, streamline projects, and support better decision-making. Beyond teaching, he has also developed curricula and led training on a massive scale. Brian’s blend of talents and interests makes him well-positioned to train others and help them navigate the complexities of the subject matter.
Clarissa Corbin
With more than 25 years of experience, Clarissa is a seasoned corporate trainer, Project Manager, and Business Consultant and has helped professionals and organizations alike achieve tangible results around the world. Her work has taken her to amazing places around the world, from China to Africa, training over 10,000 participants in leadership, project management, business analysis, and emerging technologies. Clarissa has worked with teams at NASA, Microsoft, Citibank, and FEMA, just to name a few, and is known for designing interactive yet practical sessions where her listeners can apply their skills immediately. At Graduate School USA, she played a pivotal role and contributed to numerous programs, including the Managing for Results course. She’s a quality instructor, focusing on subjects like project management, AI, and even Adobe, and has a heavy commitment to professionalism, innovation, and student success.
Michelle Proctor
Michele’s professional record in Human Resources, organizational development, and leadership training has been acquired over 25 years in the field. She is a Business Strategist and HR innovator who has helped public, private, federal, and higher education organizations on their path to success. In particular, Michele excels in organizational assessment, project and performance management, workforce development, change management, conflict resolution, and AI initiatives. She prides herself on guiding individuals to leverage their strengths while fulfilling their professional lives. Her consulting work includes leading the DC Courts HR Division’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Workforce Development Program, “Fulfilling Our Future.” She’s also held senior executive positions at Howard University, the Air Line Pilots Association, and Executive Transitions International. She’s currently working as an adjunct faculty at Graduate School USA and Anne Arundel Community College.
Alan Zucker
Alan Zucker brings real-world expertise from both the federal government and Fortune 100 companies to the classroom. With more than 25 years of professional work in project management, he makes for an ideal instructor. He has managed the project execution organization of 175 professionals, led high-visibility strategic initiatives, and delivered thousands of successful projects. His education began at George Washington University, where he earned his Bachelor’s, before progressing to earn a Master's in Economics from the University of Maryland. Moreover, he holds a wide variety of certifications, such as the Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), PMI-ACP, Disciplined Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant, Certified Scrum Professional, and Agile Leadership Academy Trainer. Alan is an active member of the project management community, having served as a keynote speaker, frequent industry commentator, and author of nearly 150 articles on project management.
Tashea Coates
Tashea is a Human Resources Executive and Federal Consultant, holding over 23 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, State, and Health and Human Services. Known for her ability to strategize and take the lead, Tahsea has transformed HR policies to align with mission strategies and outcomes, influencing government-wide procedures such as onboarding and pay equity. Tashea is a staunch advocate for ethical leadership, inclusivity, and organizational success. In addition, she prides herself on her authenticity and purpose-driven spirit, which translates into her work as an educator as well. In addition to teaching subjects like AI. She’s an author and entrepreneur, and is always looking for ways to help organizations and individuals alike.
Charles Byrd
With a strong foundation in federal human resources management and legal counseling, Charles is a highly knowledgeable Employee and Labor Relations Consultant in Washington, D.C. He began his education at Loyola University, earning his B.A. in Business Administration and Political Science, before graduating from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Throughout his career, Charles has guided agencies through complex HR and labor-related challenges, managed HR programs, and represented organizations in legal proceedings. He has also designed and delivered specialized training in human resources, project management, and marketing. Charles’ professional background has led to numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his impact in the field.
David E. McCullin
Dr. David E. McCullin, better known as Dr. Mac, specializes in strategic communication, homeland security, data analytics, and accurate decision-making. Prior to his work at Graduate School USA, Dr. Mac obtained his Bachelor’s in Engineering, his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and a Doctorate in Management of Complex Adaptive Systems. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including 13 in Special Operations. He later worked at the Department of Homeland Security as an Intelligence and Infrastructure Security Analyst for nearly a decade. Through his education and solid professional career, he has been able to teach students a variety of important skills and has also developed innovative learning tools and games that help improve decision-making and analytical thinking skills.
Natalya Bah
As a part-time instructor at Graduate School USA for over 15 years, Natalya’s expertise cannot go unnoticed. She’s an educator and has developed curricula for the school, including the Change Management Workshops and several project management courses. Not to mention, she’s also served as a learning coach, facilitator, and instructor for government leadership programs and has developed the Define and Achieve Your Goals Process. Natalya earned her Master’s in Project Management and her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, making her a well-qualified and effective educator, project manager, coach, and consultant.
Alan McCain
Alan is a retired combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Navy with over 30 years of experience in federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, supply chain management, and IT acquisitions. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Certification from Harvard’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Throughout his career across federal, state, and local government agencies, Alan has worked for numerous departments, such as the Department of State and Defense, as well as the Office of the Mayor of D.C. Alan is also an accomplished consultant and business strategist, having aided in the development of organizational projects at Lockheed Martin and PwC, to name a few. His background and lengthy career make him an ideal instructor for those looking to learn more about finance, accounting, and project management.
Derk Mattocks
As a skilled instructor and business leader, Derk Mattocks possesses the skills and career experience to bolster his credibility. He gained his B.S. in Organization Management from Nyack College and his Master’s in Leadership and Military Installation Management, as well as an MBA in Financial Management and Analysis from the University of Maryland. He is a licensed Certified Advanced Professional Business Coach and trained mediator, with the certification to facilitate the “Five Practices of Leadership” workshops. Derk has also served as a Senior Advisor and Instructor for the U.S. Army. Overall, he has the credentials to serve as an accomplished and well-versed instructor, often covering topics related to project management and marketing.
Melanie Dooley
Melanie is a federal acquisition and contracting expert with over 30 years of professional experience in Washington, D.C., spanning both government and education sectors. She has served as the Vice President of Acquisition Policy at SAIC and as the Managing Editor of the Federal Contracts Report at Bloomberg BNA. She’s currently an instructor at Graduate School USA, often teaching classes related to the marketing realm. She’s a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, positioning her as a person with incredible leadership skills and knowledge of her field. She earned her MBA from Georgetown University and is known as a clear, trusted instructor who consistently challenges students to take their skills to the next level.