Experience
ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Neon - Big Lab
April 2023 - Current,
Serving as creative lead for both original concepts and iconic IPs like Marvel’s Avengers, Jurassic World, Avatar, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I manage multiple internal teams and external vendors. My approach blends principles from creative strategy, narrative design, human-computer interaction to ensure alignment with the brand while providing unexpected surprises.
OPERATIONAL RISK ANALYST
M&T Bank
May 2015 - November 2016
Worked directly with department executives to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks to business operations by reviewing and rewriting existing policies and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
EXPERIENTIAL DESIGNER
January 2013 - April 2023
As a freelance experiential designer, I focused on creative strategy and data-driven concept design. More specifically, I designed a short-term even celebrating the grand opening of a major technology company’s new headquarters. I also had the opportunity to design pop-ups, immersive retail spaces, escape rooms, haunted attractions, and special events.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Eerie Productions
August 2017 - October 2019
Acted as creative lead on multiple award-winning projects, including an escape room based on the film, "The Hangover," and "Eeriepalooza,” a psychedelic rave themed haunt.
OWNER - OPERATOR
Queen City Games
February 2012 - May 2015
Transformed an auto parts store into an immersive tabletop game store themed to “The Queen City,” Buffalo, NY. With frequent conventions, unique interior, and knowledgeable staff, Queen City games was the premier destination for local gaming enthusiasts.
M.F.A. - THEMED EXPERIENCE
University of Central Florida
Exp. May 2024
Thesis | "Real Time A.I. Generated
Interactive Immersive Experiences"
Education
FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT - JAPAN
Concordia College
August 2007
M.S - PHYSICS AND EDUCATION
SUNY College at Buffalo
December 2014
Thesis | “Educator Misconceptions of Newtonian Physics Models”
B.A. - PHYSICS
Buffalo University
May 2012
• Computational Physics
• Quantum Mechanics
• Modern Physics
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Rochester Institute of Technology
Non-Degree Seeking Student
CREATIVE DESIGN INTERN - I.P. & PROPS
Universal Creative
September 2022 - December 2022
Interned at Universal Creative as part of my MFA program. I aided in the design of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic area in the upcoming Universal’s Epic Universe theme park. I collaborated with the Advanced Technology Interactives (ATI) team to design novel experiences using iconic objects and original props. Additionally, I supported the Intellectual Property team to ensure continued brand alignment.
Hi! I'm Bryan McGowan
I use my scientific background and my skills in concept development and creative strategy to create unique attractions that engage and inspire guests. Empathy drives my work as I aim to create a lasting impact through innovative technology and creative strategy.
I understand how to create an emotional experience from cold data and rough ideas.