faculty

Rachel Nartia is a talent acquisition and program management professional with over a decade of experience at established animation & VFX studios, including Pixar, DreamWorks/PDI, Lucasfilm/ILM, and Netflix Animation. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and a Master of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, Rachel built her career across the full spectrum of studio talent work: recruiting, early career programs, diversity and inclusion talent initiatives, and global talent strategy.

Drawing on her career in studio recruiting and talent program leadership, she brings an industry-informed perspective to the career readiness challenges animation students navigate, from building a compelling professional brand to cultivating a meaningful industry network and charting their own career journey. Her work has always centered on programs that are intentional, led by curiosity, and reflective of the communities creative studios serve.

In a mid-career pivot, Rachel spent several years in Italy, supporting U.S. servicemembers and military families as a talent development and career readiness professional, an experience that broadened her perspective on professional transitions and reinforced her belief that great career guidance leaves people more equipped and more seen.

She serves on the Leadership Board of the Women in Animation SF Bay Area Chapter and is a dedicated advocate for diverse and emerging talent across the entertainment industry. Rachel is a proud Bay Area native who approaches her work and her life with passion, compassion, and a healthy dose of style.

Courses

Fall 2026

• PS303 Professional Studies for Animators