Chelsea Blasko, Co-CEO of Iron Galaxy Studios, chats about her journey into the gaming industry, organic growth and diversity in projects, the importance of feedback and support, and culture and values in a studio. They also discuss spreading joy with balloons during the pandemic, fashion and reflection, and the power of inspiration and supporting others.
The importance of persistence and taking opportunities in unconventional paths to enter the games industry.
The significance of diversity, transparency, and creating a supportive environment for growth and success in game development studios.
The challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic, including implementing strategies for employee support and maintaining a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Deep dives
The Importance of the AIS Foundation Scholarship Programs
The AIS Foundation offers annual scholarship programs for students and professionals in game design, production, and business. The programs aim to support individuals in making an impact on the game industry and advancing interactive entertainment.
Chelsea Blasco's Journey into the Games Industry
Chelsea Blasco, co-CEO of Iron Galaxy Studios, shares her unconventional path into the games industry. With a background in German and fine art, she initially taught German and worked in retail management before joining the industry. Her experiences highlight the importance of persistence and taking opportunities.
Iron Galaxy's Growth and Culture
Iron Galaxy Studios started with a small team of friends and gradually grew into a larger company with a focus on diversity, transparency, and creating a supportive environment. The studio places value on individual contributions, open communication, and maintaining a feedback-driven culture.
Navigating the Pandemic and Remote Work
The pandemic presented challenges and opportunities for Iron Galaxy Studios. The company implemented various strategies to foster a sense of belonging and support for its employees, including virtual events, care packages, mental health days, and flexible policies. The studio has remained agile and adapted to remote work, with plans to gradually return to the office.
Embracing Diversity and Elevating Other Voices
Iron Galaxy Studios recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity. Chelsea Blasco actively works to elevate other voices within the studio, as well as supporting efforts to recruit diverse talent. Initiatives include orientation sessions, a committee focused on diversity and inclusion, and creating spaces for different communities to connect and share experiences.
Robin Hunicke chats with Chelsea Blasko about her long and varied path towards the games industry, learning via trial by fire at her first job in games, organic growth and diversity in projects and partners to increase stability, finding the confidence to make decisions, stepping out of the shadows into a front-of-house leadership role, the importance of feedback and support, and how culture and values can help a studio come together. Chelsea is the Co-CEO of Iron Galaxy Studios, who are best known for developing Killer Instinct, Divekick, and the recently released Extinction. Additionally, Iron Galaxy has helped studios finish and port titles, with over 60 games shipped worldwide.