UXD Academy Founder Teaches at AI in Filmmaker Symposium, Strengthens Creative Learning at CalState LA Through Runway ML AI for Filmmakers

Written By Everett Swain

Los Angeles, CA – February 20, 2026 – UXD Academy Founder Everett Swain II delivered a high-impact artificial intelligence presentation at California State University, Los Angeles, during the university’s AI Tech Day, equipping film, television, and music video students with industry-relevant AI tools designed to advance modern storytelling and digital production.

Presented by UXD Academy, the sessions titled “From Idea to Edit” and “Directing the Future: Using AI Tools to Save Time“ offered a two-hour immersive campus experience on Friday, February 20, 2026. The hands-on teaching session gave students the opportunity to witness live demonstrations and actively participate in real-time AI experimentation. Working from fully equipped computer workstation pods, students engaged directly with the tools while receiving guided instruction from Swain.

AI In Filmmaker Symposium - Photo Credit Nicole Cruz

At the core of the presentation was Runway ML, a leading AI platform transforming filmmaking and video production. Swain demonstrated how creators can leverage AI for concept development, visual generation, scene experimentation, editing acceleration, and creative prototyping, all while maintaining human-centered storytelling as the foundation.

“Artificial intelligence is a creative accelerator,” Swain told students. “When you understand how to apply these tools strategically, you expand your creative capacity and position yourself competitively in today’s evolving media landscape.”

The Friday session was more than a lecture — it was a fully immersive educational experience. Students observed live demonstrations, followed step-by-step workflows, and tested tools firsthand, creating a dynamic learning environment that mirrors real production settings.

AI In Filmmaker Symposium - Photo Credit Victor Mojica

Throughout the session, students explored how AI tools can:

  • Support pre-production research and concept visualization

  • Accelerate editing and post-production workflows

  • Enhance visual storytelling and experimental scene creation

  • Improve production efficiency without compromising creative integrity

  • Expand career opportunities in film, television, and digital media

  • Strengthen competitive positioning in AI-driven industries

In addition to the classroom demonstration, Swain contributed to a featured AI education panel, addressing equitable workforce development, innovation in higher education, and the importance of inclusive access to emerging technologies. His message emphasized that while tools evolve rapidly, the human experience remains central to impactful storytelling.

AI In Filmmaker Symposium - Photo Credit Nicole Cruz

Everett Swain II brings more than a decade of leadership in UX design, AI education, and digital transformation. As Founder and CEO of UXD Academy and Hour Table, he has developed scalable training programs that bridge education and industry, transforming underrepresented talent into job-ready professionals. UXD Academy reports a 29% graduate placement rate into industry roles, surpassing the national average of 16%.

Swain has been featured by the Associated Press and multiple national outlets for his leadership in artificial intelligence education and workforce innovation. His speaking engagements span film festivals, innovation summits, apprenticeship initiatives, and campus AI Tech Days nationwide.

The February 20, 2026, immersive teaching session at California State University, Los Angeles, stands as a powerful example of how AI education, when delivered through live demonstration and hands-on participation, can elevate student confidence, creativity, and career readiness.

AI In Filmmaker Symposium - Photo Credit Victor Mojica

Book Everett for Your Next Campus AI Tech Day or Educational Immersion

Everett Swain II is available for keynote presentations, classroom demonstrations, campus AI Tech Day programming, and immersive hands-on education sessions. Colleges, universities, creative institutions, and workforce development organizations seeking to integrate AI innovation into their curriculum are encouraged to connect.

Book Everett for your next education session or campus AI immersion experience. He is ready to serve, educate, demonstrate, and empower the next generation of creative leaders.

About Everett Swain II and UXD Academy

Everett Swain II is Founder and CEO of UXD Academy and Hour Table, specializing in artificial intelligence, UX design, and digital workforce innovation. He integrates human-centered design with emerging AI technologies to prepare future-ready filmmakers, creators, and automation builders.

Connect with UXD Academy

Speaking Engagement, Media & Partnership Inquiries

Lela Thompson

Director of Tech AI Relations | UXD Academy

310-308-1797

Lela@societynineteengroup.com

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