UNC Greensboro Film Department

UNCG’s virtual production program began with senior lecturer Kevin Wells, who saw the technology used on The Mandalorian and recognized that the industry was shifting. “Virtual production is where the industry is heading,” Wells said. “If we want our students to be competitive, we can’t just teach them what’s current—we have to teach them what’s next.”

The university had already invested in esports and gaming infrastructure, making it a natural environment to experiment with Unreal Engine and real-time technologies. Faculty learned by doing—attending Unreal Engine training events hosted on campus with Epic Games support, followed by hands-on experimentation and Mo-Sys Academy workshops.

Today, UNCG offers two virtual production courses—VP1 and VP2—with plans to expand. Students start with green screen keying, camera tracking, and foundational Unreal Engine work in VP1, then progress to LED walls and advanced techniques in VP2. When UNCG made the leap from green screen to LED wall, the transition took just one class session.

Most equipment purchased for green screen production—PCs, camera trackers, software—remained compatible with the new LED setup, making the investment scalable and financially practical.

The impact has extended far beyond the film department. Collaborations are underway with animation, esports, and even elementary school outreach programs. Prospective students and faculty regularly cite the VP studio as a deciding factor in joining the university.

Form Volumes served as a trusted partner throughout—not just an equipment vendor. Connected through David Stapp, a UNCG alum and Director of Virtual Production at Form Volumes, the relationship was built on honest, consultative conversations. UNCG initially started with independent quotes, but it was Form Volumes’ all-in-one guidance on panels, installation, manufacturer logistics, and long-term support that brought the project to life.