SCHEED Cole is the CEO of Scheed International Group of Companies, which specialises in transforming interior and exterior spaces through landscaping, structural branding, redevelopments and restorations, construction and architectural services.

He is a well-respected and sought after sculptural design engineer whose creations not only add aesthetic value, but leave a lasting impression on all who get to experience them. Most recently, the students at the JPS Foundation Model School Project—  the Falmouth Gardens Basic School — benefited from his creative expertise through a dynamically designed playground which is now the talk of the small town.

1. Who is a sculptural design engineer?

A sculptural design engineer is a multisensory being who lives in a three-dimensional world. We are constantly stimulated by what we can see and touch and we create emotional connections to these physical things.

2. What is the value of the work that you do?

A sculptural design engineer is extremely needed in today’s world and wears many hats: that of an industrial designer, an applied artist, a fabricator or even a fine artist, depending on the job.

3. What was it that prompted your entry into the field?

The ability to sculpt realistic form was recognised within me by others and I was continuously hired to do sculpting jobs. Later on, I realised that the need was overwhelming in Jamaica so I decided to supply my services.

4. What are your responsibilities as a sculptural design engineer?

I am responsible for bringing the dreams of my clients to life, through the process of designing, engineering and construction.

5. What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

It is not mundane work. Every new job comes with its new, exciting challenges. And at the end of the project [it’s great] to witness the birth of a new creation and to see the joy of a pleased client and admiration for the work by the public at large.

6. What are the challenges that you face on the job?

Challenges in this line of work are numerous, but a few outstanding ones are ensuring a quality finish at all times especially when you have to oversee other artisans and tradesmen who are not knowledgeable of sculpting, and ensuring structural integrity and engineering is above standard is a challenge, but we get it done.

7. What are the academic requirements for entry into the field?

This is a field within the creative industry, therefore the creativity and expert skills in sculpting would be the top-most prerequisites. Having training in fine arts training wouldn’t hurt either.

8. What other skills and/or competences are required for the field?

Other skills are needed such as industrial fabrication, engineering, architectural knowledge, fine arts and industrial design skills, to name a few.

9. What is your academic background?

I am an art educator by training. I received a diploma in visual art education from The Mico Teachers College and spent over 10 years teaching art at the secondary level.

10. How much can one earn as a sculptural design engineer on an annual basis?

There is no limit to what one can earn, but earning is dependent on a person’s ability to manage projects and his or her skill level.

11. Why would you advise anyone to get into the field?

Sculptural design engineering is applicable to all industries and there are not enough skilled practitioners to satisfy these needs. For instance, it’s significantly placed within tourism with the theming of areas and the building of attractions and museums; the entertainment industry with the theming of events, entrance pieces and wow factors; the manufacturing industry with the designing and manufacturing of new products for decorative of utilitarian use, and the building industry with the design and construction of structures with artistic elements and sculptural landscapes and so many more. This is always an in-demand profession and worth exploring by anyone who is thinking of a career in the creative sector.

12. What’s your work history?

Most of my work has been done for corporate Jamaica over the past 13 years. I have done works as large as 40′ High Mountain for Matterhorn, the sand castle monument for Hellshire Beach, sculpted environs with giant waterfalls, life-size sculpted animals and figures….

13. Describe a typical day for you on the job.

A typical day for me would be juggling multiple projects in different geological areas. I can be checking in with project managers or sculpting away or fabricating some structure that needs my special attention.

14. What advice do you have for others who wish to enter the field?

For aspiring sculptural engineers, I would say take nothing for granted because you are always as good as your last performance. It is therefore important to stay sharp by constantly upgrading your skills. Aim to master your skills so you will work more efficiently and effortlessly while still creating pieces of excellence for your clients. Focus more about building a reputation for yourself before thinking about money; that will come when your skills are developed.