David Lombardi originally studied Industrial Design at the University of Cincinnati, giving him a broad base and understanding of practical aspects of the creative process. After school he moved to California and began work in the digital effects industry just at the beginning of the “boutique” boom of the mid 90’s.  These smaller companies were a new concept in the entertainment industry and required artists to take on more extensive rolls for projects. This foundation gave him a knowledge of all aspects of CG effects work. During his 5 year stint working in television, he led his team to two Emmy nominations working on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine", and "Star Trek: Voyager" as well as contribution for a win on "Enterprise". He moved on to commercial work for clients such as Sony, SFR, United Airlines, Jeep, Honda, Nissan and British Telecom.

Fortunately, his position as a Digital Effects Supervisor at the post production house known as the Syndicate gave him opportunities to work with the parent company’s film division, Cafe FX. During that time he helped create effects for films such as Gothika, Peter Pan, Master and Commander, Sin City, and Underworld 2.