Exploring Careers in BC’s Video Game Industry
Did you know that Vancouver boasts over 170 video game development studios, producing beloved games that generate billions in annual revenue? This vibrant mix of domestic and international companies showcases the city's innovation and next generation thinking. The talent pool here consists of highly technical and creative individuals with acute business savvy, contributing to the industry's success, and we’re bringing together several of them for one night at Science World!
Join us for the next Science World Spotlights event tailored for adult audiences for an evening of exciting insights, networking, and inspiration with industry professionals. They’ll share their experiences, tips, and advice for navigating the dynamic landscape of video game development. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a recent graduate, or simply someone with a passion for gaming looking to explore new technologies and career opportunities, this event promises to be an educational and inspiring experience.
- Date: May 28, 2024
- Time: 6pm – 9pm
- Location: Science World, 1455 Quebec St
- Ticket Prices:
General: $15
Science World Member: $10
If you are experiencing financial concerns and the cost of a ticket will be a barrier for you to attend, please email us about our registration fee subsidy program – [email protected]
Highlights Include:
- Expert Panel: Learn about different career paths within the video game industry, discover emerging trends and technologies, and gain practical advice on how to kickstart or advance your career in this dynamic field.
- Mix and Mingle: Stick around for the reception to connect with like-minded individuals, expand your professional network, and forge valuable connections within the industry.
- Visit the Exhibit: Experience multi-sensory digital experimentation in Science World’s Creative Technology Galley, co-presented by RBC and Beedie, where you can engage with interactive exhibits featuring well-known movies, animation, and video games made right here in B.C.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to dive into the exciting world of video game development in one of the world's leading gaming hubs. Reserve your spot now!
Panel Includes:
Jesse Houston - Co-founder, and CEO of Critical Path Games
Master of Ceremonies
Jesse is a co-founder, and the CEO of Critical Path Games, a new start up here in Vancouver. Prior to that, Jesse was the CEO and founder of Phoenix Labs where he led the creation of the acclaimed game Dauntless, setting new standards in free-to-play, cross-platform play.
Jeanne-Marie Owens - Co-founder, and COO of Critical Path Games
Panel Moderator
Jeanne-Marie was the first employee at Phoenix Labs, the Vancouver-based game development studio behind Dauntless and Fae Farm, and helped grow the team from a small start-up to a 350 person multinational studio. In 2024, she co-founded Critical Path Games, a small new game development studio with the ambitious goal of creating a new game genre. Jeanne-Marie is the Vice-Chair of DigiBC as well as the lead of the Video Games Group Committee.
Jung Kwon – Lead Product Designer, Unity
Speaker
Jung Kwon is a visionary creator in the product design industry, known for her passion for blending emotional intelligence with digital experiences and is currently the lead product designer at Unity Technology.
Ghafur Remtulla – Principle, Skybox Labs
Ghafur is a proven technical leader, engineering expert, and gaming industry veteran with over 20 years of experience building software, over 10 years of technical leadership and project leadership experience on multi-million-dollar projects, and 16 years entrenched in the gaming industry. Ghafur’s notable projects include: Halo, Minecraft, Destiny 2, Fallout 76, Age of Empires, Rise of Nations, Stela (IP), and Magic the Gathering (Android/iOS) at Skybox Labs.
Kate Rayner – VP Technical Director, The Coalition
Kate Rayner is a Corporate Vice President and Technical Fellow at Microsoft. She is the Studio Technical Director for The Coalition, Xbox Game Studio, home of the Gears of War Franchise, and head of the Xbox Games Technology Group, a central engineering team for Xbox Games Studios. She has over two decades of experience in game development and technology leadership, having led development teams for well-known AAA franchises such as SSX, Skate, Need for Speed, and Gears of War. As an executive sponsor for Women in Gaming and The Rainbow Coalition, an LGBTQIA+ employee advocacy group at Microsoft's The Coalition and Xbox Game Studio, Kate is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Mary Lim– Director of Programs and Innovation, Centre for Digital Media
As the Director of Programs and Innovation at the Center for Digital Media, Mary oversees the academic portfolio, including their flagship Master of Digital Media program along with other shorter programs. Mary also leads the development of new educational initiatives and facilitates the integration of industry and community development within our academic activities. With over 20 years of experience in teaching, program development, and institutional strategy, Mary has played pivotal roles in establishing and leading programs such as the VRAR Design and Development Program at Vancouver Film School.