The expert panel will be streamed live through IGEA’s Twitch channel.
The Panel
Jacob Leaney is an indie games developer and synth-pop music artist. He develops games based on the music he writes, most recently the award-winning pop-song rhythm game Video World, and has received funding from Creative Victoria for a follow-up sequel.
Elise Marchouba is a games producer at Avalanche Studios, who is working on their newly announced title, Contraband, as well as supporting the team at Ghost Pattern on their upcoming title Wayward Strand.
James Smith is an XR Developer at FLAIM Systems, working on fully immersive VR learning solutions for training in hazardous and emergency situations.
SAE’s Program Chair for Games, Geoff Hill commented that this event will provide valuable insight to aspiring devs.
“James, Elise and Jacob’s diverse experience will be invaluable in providing relevant insight on how to make it in the video games industry and follow their varied pathways.”
The Arcade’s Director of Operations and Projects, Ceri Hutton added how the industry has evolved.
“In recent years, game development has become an increasingly competitive field. The best way for up-and-coming devs to have the edge on the competition is to engage with professionals through events like this.”
“Jacob, Elise and James are leaders in their field whose pathways are diverse and varied. We are delighted to give them a platform to share their insights to aspiring devs across Australia and the world via our Twitch channel.”
The Arcade’s SMART Program
In addition to the upcoming Pathways to the Industry event, The Arcade’s South Melbourne Arcade Residency Tenure (SMART) Program – a 3 month placement supported by City of Port Phillip – has recently provided 25 emerging developers including SAE student, Harry Wallace, the opportunity to foster their development as creatives.
“Once I finish my Bachelor of Games Development, I want to move more of my energy into the SMART program so I can continue to access The Arcade on a daily basis. This is an incredible opportunity where I can interact with other developers, and get invaluable feedback on my portfolio.”
Harry added, if he hadn’t had opportunities through The Arcade and the SMART program, he may have hesitated in applying for jobs.
“I think I would have delayed job hunting until I finished my degree, not realising there’s no need to wait to get into the industry.
“Through the connections I’ve already made at SAE and The Arcade, I’ve had access to applications that I didn’t know existed. Having those contacts has given me a head-start in the industry that most people can only dream of.”
