A new series on RRC Polytech’s RED Blog celebrates alumni career successes and the—sometimes wayward—journeys our alumni take post-graduation. The series features a variety of RRC Polytech programs from the viewpoints of different alumni, each with an amazing story to share.

In April, two Creative Communications graduates were highlighted: Lucasfilm lore master and Distinguished Graduate Award winner Pablo Hidalgo, and grad-turned-instructor Doug Darling, CEO of Tripwire Media Group.

Pablo Hidalgo took what he learned in Creative Communications at RRC Polytech and combined it with his love of Star Wars to become the resident Yoda at Lucasfilm—seemingly all-knowing and the go-to guy aspiring Padawans approach to learn the history and lore of the force. When J.J. Abrams had questions during the production of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Hidalgo was the master with all the answers.

Hidalgo began his career in 1996 as a copywriter at McKim Communications. He also worked as a freelance writer, creating content for the publisher of the first Star Wars role-playing game. Here he made lasting connections that ultimately landed him a role  developing content for Lucasfilm in 2000. Hidalgo credits CreComm’s tight deadlines and fast-paced environment for preparing him for his current role as the Senior Creative Executive with Lucasfilm Story Group.

For Doug Darling, the Creative Communications program shaped his life in every way. Darling’s journey to CEO all started with a three-minute video montage assignment. As a former musician, Darling found a new rhythm and art form in video production and editing.

Not everyone can credit a simple school assignment for changing their life’s trajectory, but for Darling, that holds true. After graduating from CreComm, Darling co-founded local video production agency Tripwire Media Group, which has worked with companies like Scotiabank, Tabasco, and TikTok. Taking what he learned in CreComm’s Media Production stream, Darling’s company has developed a strategic storytelling process for clients. Today, Darling is the ‘lead on stage’ as CEO, while Tripwire’s full-service video production team is his new band.

The art of editing became Darling’s passion, and he now shares that with the next generation of storytellers as an instructor in RRC Polytech’s new post-graduate Digital Film and Media Production program.

While Hidalgo may not have enrolled in CreComm expecting to land a job working for Lucasfilm, and Darling may not have enrolled in the program expecting to find a new creative calling, both grads have gone on to chart incredible career paths.

Read more about Hidalgo and Darling on the RED Blog >

Where has your career taken you? Share your success story with us – email us at alumni@rrc.ca.