In this interview, we had the opportunity to speak with Shaziya Naseem, our Senior AR/VR Architect and Instructor at CAM Institute of Design. With over eight years of experience, she has built some incredible immersive experiences, and we’re lucky to have her on our team.
Keep reading to learn more about her background, career, and advice for new developers:
Tell us a bit about your background and current role?
In University I studied Computer Science and Engineering. I then went on to gain eight years of experience in the field of technology specialising in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and haptics. Through this, I have been able to complete study-based projects in healthcare, education, and corporate settings.
Currently, I am the Team Lead & AR/VR Instructor at CAM Institute of Design and I head the Extended Reality (AR/VR/MR) & Mobility Solutions.
What do you like most about your speciality?
AR/VR is the future of the world. It has drawn everyone’s attention and is quickly being implemented into all industries. This kind of immersive technology allows users to go into a completely different world and practise whatever they want – whether it be gaming, sports, or social interactions.
Why did you choose to teach here?
The idea that CAM Institute of Design is built on bringing different minds from across specialisations together to learn and teach. I have always had a passion for sharing my knowledge, and love that I can continue my own personal learning by doing my homework before bringing lesson plans to the students.
Developing projects in the design industry and teaching these same skills to the students ensures graduates from my program will stand unique after completing their studies.
Favourite movie and/or hobby?
Animated movies are my favourite because the possibilities for creativity are endless. In my spare time, I read and I also love to cook.
What is your favourite project you have worked on in your career?
I had the opportunity to work with professionals in the healthcare industry, producing VR simulations of real-life medical situations with haptics technology embedded. Haptics is the transmission and understanding of information through touch. I spent a period of time at the beginning of the project interacting with doctors, watching procedures, and learning about the equipment used. This was advantageous when producing the haptics, because I understood not only the process, but how to simulate human physiology.
I hold this project very close to my heart and am thrilled it is on the market and has been a great success.
What do you think future developers looking to study at CAM Institute of Design should know?
Before learning technical skills, students should always consider the bigger picture of what they want to achieve. This demonstrates logical and analytical thinking – and their ability to bring big solutions to big problems.
