Drew Funderburk
Game Programmer and project lead with experience in VR development as well as desktop and mobile. I am experienced in both Unreal Engine and Unity, C++, C#, both Git and Perforce source control, AI, UI, and game systems. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and experience as an asset to your team.
PORTFOLIO
Game Programmer
| AI | VR | UNREAL ENGINE 5 | UNITY | C++ | C# | SYSTEMS DESIGN |
Experienced VR/AR Developer and Project Lead with proven success in commercial and educational applications. Technical expertise in AI systems, game optimization, and gameplay systems combined with leadership experience as both an instructor and developer. Seeking to contribute technical and creative problem-solving skills to innovative game development teams.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
FREELANCE
Project Lead / Principal Programmer | 2025 - Current
- Project Leadership: Working with clients to design games from from the ground up to fit their unique vision, emphasizing marketability, playability, and “finding the fun” in their ideas.
- Lead Developer: Responsible for leading the project on every front, setting milestones and meeting planned targets.
- Lead Programmer: Designed and implemented project architecture and mechanics, working closely with clients and other developers to shape gameplay features to the project’s vision.
ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Game Programming Instructor | 2023 - 2025
- Technical Instruction: Programming fundamentals, AI, UI, Unity, Unreal Engine, game math, custom engines, physics, rendering
- Project Leadership: Guided student teams through agile workflow, maintained 92%+ class average
TOP RIGHT CORNER
VR Developer | 2020-2024
- VR Development: Systems, gameplay, AI, UI, lighting, optimization, audio for commercial and educational applications
- Commercial Success: Developed “Flock of the Low God” (horror VR) and DLC for “The Atlas Mystery” (4.6 stars on Meta Quest Store)
- Client Solutions: Created VR training applications for Louisiana Economic Development and University of New Orleans
KEY PROJECTS
Defiant Light | Networked Submarine FPS (Ongoing)
FPS | NETWORKING | AI | UNREAL ENGINE 5
- Principle programmer, developing all technical systems in Unreal Engine 5.
- Implemented networked movement solutions for a moving submarine, enabling players to move seamlessly on and off of a moving vehicle.
- Created simulation-based submarine movement system, using engine gears, rudder positions, and buoyancy controls.
- Developed networked interaction system.
FLOCK OF THE LOW GOD | VR Horror Game
VR | AI | AUDIO | PLAYER INTERACTION | UNITY
- Developed complex perception-based AI system with behavior trees for organic enemy movement and behavior
- Implemented immersive audio system designed to maximize player tension
- Programmed comprehensive player interaction systems and tutorial mechanics
EDUCATIONAL VR SIMULATIONS
VR | UI | INTERACTION DESIGN | UNREAL | UNITY
- Solo-developed multiple educational applications for university and government clients
- Created immersive simulations for chemistry, metallurgy, and renewable energy education
- Designed for first-time VR users with emphasis on comfort and intuitive interactions