Pete Braccio

Candidate for Director of Communications

Communication is the life’s blood of any organization and SIGGRAPH is no exception. SIGGRAPH, in fact, has a unique role in the computer graphics world because it is the hub of the field. We need to foster links not only with our members, chapters, and volunteers; we also need to ensure that we are meeting the needs of our researchers, artists, and industry.

As Director of Communication, I will continue the outreach work that I’ve been doing as part of the SIGGRAPH Conference organization to our friends outside of SIGGRAPH. Additionally, I will ensure that the membership receive timely updates on any new directions that SIGGRAPH chooses to follow.

Increased industry communication 

I feel that we need to get the software and hardware manufacturers more involved in SIGGRAPH. This is paramount to the continued health of the organization and the industry. I believe that I'm in a unique position (due to my past role in securing donations/sponsorships for the conference) to get these companies working with the organization not only for altruistic reasons, but to also show them that it is in the best interest for their own bottom lines.

Community outreach 

Computer graphics and interactive techniques could cover ANYTHING that includes a human and a computer in the mix. I see great opportunities for SIGGRAPH to be the premier organization for people interested in computer based music (recording, performance, synthesis, etc.), robotics (manufacturing, remotely operated devices, etc.), and medical device technologies (advance prosthetics, sensory implants, etc). Additionally, we need to woo back other fields (scientific/data visualization, CAD, architecture/urban planners, etc.) that would benefit from an association with SIGGRAPH.

An aggressive outreach program is needed to reach these communities and overcome a mindset that SIGGRAPH is just about Hollywood special effects. I intend to work with the Directors of Education and Chapters to ensure that this effort succeeds.

Membership outreach and education

An organization doesn’t exist with out its members. I will ensure that our members have timely and accurate information on how the organization is operating. Additionally, I will ensure that there is an easy and effective way for members to communicate their concerns, suggestions, and thoughts back to the Executive Committee.

SIGGRAPH Experience

• SIGGRAPH Conference Chair At Large  - 2008
• SIGGRAPH Conference Donations and Development Coordinator – 2006 to present
• ACM SIGGRAPH Advisory Board member – 2006 to present
• Studio/Guerilla Studio Program Chair – 2000, 2003-2005
• Guerilla Gallery/Studio/Guerilla Studio Subcommittee – 1997 to Present

Professional Experience

• 2000 – present – Computer and Networking Administrator, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Moss Landing, CA
• 1993 – 2000 – Oceanographer, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA
• 1985 – 1993 – U.S. Naval Officer

Education

• 1991 – M.S. in Physics, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA
• 1985 – B.A. in Physics and Astronomy, Boston University, Boston, MA