Giving Back, Diversity, Self-Promotion, Cultural Revolution, People Skills, Immersive Experiences, and Game Jams with Renee Gittins of the IGDA

I welcome Renee Gittins who shares about her role as the Executive Director of the IGDA, along with her new position at Phoenix Labs. Learn about how Renee transitioned from biotech into game development, the various roles she’s had, along with making lifelong friends at Riot Games. Hear the importance of having confidence, starting your projects sooner, building a portfolio, and making connections. 

We then discuss the importance of self-promotion and mentorship as keys to advancing your career, especially working with cross-discipline. Learn the importance of people skills, especially self-reflection and empathy, along with her favorite project, Potions: A Curious Tale. Hear about the cultural revolution going on in the industry, thoughts on the Metaverse, and an inspiring story.

Hear opinions on AR & VR, a surprising audience for her game project, and a wonderful story about her game’s impact. We wrap up talking about the importance of newer developers sharing and helping others, finding her online, and being kind to yourself during times like these.

Bio:

Renee Gittins is the Executive Director of the IGDA, and a multi-disciplinary leader with expertise in software engineering and creative direction. She is a passionate advocate and connector for developers and diversity in the game industry, with a background that spans across engineering, design, and production. She is outspoken about initiatives to increase diversity both within the game industry and gaming overall to help the game industry grow and improve for everyone.

Show Links:

* IGDA website

* IGDA Discord

* Creativity, Inc. book

* Crucial Conversations book

* Potions: A Curious Tale Steam

* Guide For Game Companies whitepaper

* Geek Girl Con website

* Dauntless website

* Dishonored wikipedia

Connect Links:

* Renee Gittins Twitter

* Renee Gittins LinkedIn

Game Dev Advice Links: 

* Game Dev Advice Patreon - please help support the show if you find it useful

* Game Dev Advice Twitter

* Game Dev Advice email: info@gamedevadvice.com

* Game Dev Advice website

* Level Ex Careers page - we’re hiring for tons of roles

* Game Dev Advice Hotline: (224) 484-7733

* Subscribe and go to the website for full show notes with links

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