Sign In

Raymond Soto

Director, Emerging Tech • AR/VR • 2018 Pulitzer winning Director • 2019 #FCMostInnovative

Professional Background

Raymond Soto is a distinguished professional in the field of emerging technologies and digital storytelling, currently serving as the Director of Emerging Tech for the USA TODAY NETWORK. In this role, Ray has been at the forefront of enhancing narrative forms through innovative technologies like virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR). Under his leadership, the network has embarked on groundbreaking projects that integrate immersive media, thus transforming the way audiences engage with stories.

His journey at the USA TODAY NETWORK has seen remarkable milestones, prominently featured in initiatives like the flagship virtual reality series, VRtually There. This series has not only broadened the scope of immersive reporting but has also elevated the standards of technological integration in journalism. Ray was an integral part of the production for notable projects such as USS Eisenhower VR and the critically acclaimed 321 LAUNCH. A hallmark of his career is undoubtedly his contribution to the Pulitzer Prize-winning multi-media report, The Wall, which stands as a testament to the power of merging technology with storytelling. Ray and his team’s exemplary work has earned recognition, with the USA TODAY NETWORK being acknowledged by Fast Company as one of the “Most Innovative Companies in the World” in the realm of Virtual/Augmented Reality in 2019.

Prior to his current position, Ray garnered extensive experience in the game and software development industry. He served as the Associate Art Director and Outsource Manager at Electronic Arts (EA), where he played a pivotal role in leading cross-disciplinary teams of artists. His responsibilities included shaping the unique artistic style of various projects and managing the asset creation pipeline, ensuring that the artistic vision was effectively translated into the final product.

Ray's impressive career also includes notable previous roles such as Art Lead at NCsoft and Senior Artist and Environment Outsource Manager at EA. He began his professional journey in the tech industry as a 3D Artist at Dynamic Animation Systems, where he honed his skills in digital artistry and began to make his mark in the industry. Furthermore, his diverse background includes serving as an Analyst and Computer Systems Manager at the United States Department of Defense, showcasing his versatile capabilities that span both creative and technical domains.

Education and Achievements

Raymond Soto holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art from the Art Institute of Washington, where he cultivated his foundational skills and deepened his passion for artistic expression. His robust educational background provided him with the necessary tools to excel in digital media and technology, shaping his unique approach to contemporary storytelling and artistic design.

Throughout his career, Ray has consistently demonstrated an affinity for innovation, creativity, and leadership, transforming concepts into realities that resonate with audiences. His ability to adapt and embrace the evolution of technology in media has set him apart as a visionary in his field. As part of his commitment to continuous learning and growth, Ray remains at the helm of emerging tech, ensuring that the USA TODAY NETWORK stays ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving media landscape.

Achievements

  • Director of Emerging Tech at USA TODAY NETWORK: Spearheading projects that integrate virtual and augmented reality into storytelling, enhancing audience engagement.
  • VRtually There Series: Led the development of this pioneering virtual reality series that explores various narratives in immersive formats.
  • The Wall: Integral to the production of this Pulitzer Prize-winning multi-media report, combining journalism with innovative technology to deliver compelling narratives.
  • Fast Company Recognition: Under Ray's leadership, the USA TODAY NETWORK was named one of Fast Company’s “Most Innovative Companies in the World” in 2019 for its work in Virtual/Augmented Reality.
  • Career at Electronic Arts: Held pivotal roles that contributed to the artistic vision and execution of numerous successful gaming projects, leading cross-functional teams to achieve high standards in artwork and design.
  • Diverse Background: Experience as an Analyst and Computer Systems Manager with the U.S. Department of Defense, showcasing versatility across technical and artistic domains.

Raymond Soto's dynamic professional journey illustrates not only his ability to innovate within the realm of technology and media but also his commitment to advancing the art of storytelling. As he continues to explore the intersection of emerging technologies and journalism, he remains a key figure to watch in the evolution of contemporary narrative forms.

Related Questions

How did Raymond Soto develop his expertise in emerging technologies for storytelling?
What inspired Raymond Soto to pursue a career in virtual and augmented reality at the USA TODAY NETWORK?
Can Raymond Soto share insights on the challenges and successes faced during the production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning report, The Wall?
What are some future trends in virtual and augmented reality that Raymond Soto foresees for the journalism industry?
How did Raymond Soto's education at the Art Institute of Washington influence his career trajectory in the tech and art sectors?
R
Add to my network

Location

Mclean, Virginia