Shortly after graduating from Ringling College of Art and Design, Jordan McBarnett ’23, Motion Design, secured a role with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers through a professional connection. While working as a motion designer on the team, he connected with the Seattle Seahawks' Creative Director on TikTok and Instagram, an experience that shaped his approach to the industry.
“The opportunity started from a relationship I built organically on social media,” McBarnett said. “That experience really shaped how I approach relationship building in the industry. In my experience, it is the only thing that takes you to the next level.”
That mindset soon paid off. In March 2025, the Seahawks hired McBarnett to create 3D assets for new visual designs connected to the NFL Draft. The fast-paced assignment required a full asset package in just five days, delivering high-quality elements for the team’s internal design department to use across branding and presentation materials.
The success of that project led to another opportunity. Before Super Bowl LX, which Seattle went on to win, the organization again asked McBarnett to develop additional 3D components that aligned with its visual direction for the championship game.
McBarnett says his journey from online interaction to major league creative work shows the value of persistence and authenticity. After first reaching out to the Seahawks’ creative lead to support her projects, he kept sharing his own motion and 3D work online. As his portfolio and audience grew, the professional relationship developed naturally through continued conversations.
His work now includes motion graphics for broadcast, dimensional branding elements, and digital content designed for high-visibility sports environments. These projects require both technical skill and quick turnaround.
For current students and emerging designers, McBarnett stresses that talent alone is not enough.
“Consistently posting your work, supporting others, and building real relationships can open doors you will not find through job boards,” he said.
With a portfolio that includes work with two NFL teams and championship-level creative campaigns, McBarnett’s path shows how strong skills, initiative, and meaningful connections can turn classroom learning into real industry success.
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