The University of British Columbia

Rick Hansen Secondary School

Founder at 8Bit Goose

Skills: Unity · C (Programming Language) · C# · Software Development

Unifiller Systems

Software Developer

Kellan founded 8Bit Goose Games as a one-person developer located in Vancouver British Columbia. Projects include a VR Sailing Game (www.sailwindfall.com) a 5-star Unity Asset Building Crafter (http://u3d.as/ovC) and a open source FBX Exporter for Unity (https://github.com/KellanHiggins/UnityFBXExporter).

During his work, Kellan has touched most parts of Unity. 
- Developed server networking for zombie prototype game
- Created complex sail and rope physics utilizing verlet physics
- Develop Building Crafter to allow quick prototyping of complex cityscapes
- Implemented Entity Component System for zombie prototype in 2014/15
- Learned how to aggressively optimize code with Unity’s new Burst compiler.
- Developed skills around vector math while creating custom meshes with Building Crafter
- Learned SQL via Stanford online course

8Bit Goose Games, Inc.

Founder

As a freelance Photographer, Kellan contracts small event jobs to keep his skills sharp. Clients include the Canadian Institute of Mining, UBC Alumni Affairs and a number of personal friends. 

The only photography Kellan won't do are weddings.

Kellan Higgins Photography

Freelance Photographer

At SilkStart, Kellan first handled the day-to-day operations of the company. Kellan was responsible for 35 key client accounts, right from launch through to support. He reduced launch time from the initial projection of over 50 hours to just under 10. Also he took the lead on problem solving for the business. Personally resolved vital database issues, importing issues, system stability issues.

As well, Kellan managed both the SilkStart product. He managed the development team of four, one senior developer and three junior developers.  He designed over 30 mockups for new features to be added to SilkStart.

In June of 2012, the CEO left SilkStart and Kellan took on most of the responsibilities left from his departure. He sourced and closed seven new clients during this time totalling $30,000 in revenue in the first year. Led bi-monthly Board of Director meetings with cofounder and CTO. Also held financial responsibilities for monthly accounting  and payroll.

This was the introduction to Kellan's startup career and was pivotal in getting him hooked on creating exciting new companies.

SilkStart Technology Inc.

Operations Manager

As the Chapter Service Consultant for the Alpha Delta Phi Fraternity, Kellan provided consulting services to a franchise of chapters. He visited 24 colleges during an 8 month period. During each visit, Kellan would help guide the chapter leadership and members on how to improve their chapter and shirk of the stereotypical "frat" reputation.

While consulting, Kellan Doubled annual recruitment rate in 2009 of the Toronto Chapter through group workshops and training during two-week on-site deployment. He also established successful recruitment policy at Florida State Affiliate by use of coaching and team building sessions. (20 new members per year).

Kellan also helped build chapter vision and mission statements. He led workshop to determine Toronto Chapter’s purpose: “Gentlemen on Campus”. Facilitated discovery of Florida State Affiliate’s purpose: “Not the Stereotypical Fraternity”. Organized vision seminar with Minnesota Chapter: “Get Involved, Stay the Best”.

During the summer months, Kellan lived in Chicago and put together a new convention book with InDesign replacing the photocopied mess that was in place before.

Because of his time situated in Chicago, it will always be his Second City.

Alpha Delta Phi International Fraternity

Chapter Service Consultant

Acted as the editor-in-chief of UBC's official student newspaper. Led the bi-weekly production of the paper as well as managing the relationship between the business office and editorial office.

While in this position, Kellan moved the paper towards a more work oriented building a culture of solid delivery and focus on what a campus newspaper should be. Also reduced publishing end time from 3am (previous years) to 10pm during during a two year span. (40% reduction in production time)

In the following years after his departure, the Ubyssey won numerous rewards and produced a host of young journalists who moved into the industry.

The Ubyssey - UBC's Official Student Newspaper

Coordinating Editor

Worked as a housekeeper for UBC Housing & Conferences. Became very skilled at vacuuming and would later buy a Dyson.

UBC Housing and Conferences

Housekeeper

Ensured the Ubyssey was produced on time every night. Reduced the publishing time from 3am to around 12 midnight during the first year.

Production Manager

Kellan sold Cameras and attained top 10 salesperson list within the BC stores within two months.