Press play as we unpack what it takes to forge a career in the video game industry. Watch to learn:

1. How and why GameU courses are built by industry experts, aligned to real-world workplace needs, and designed from the ground-up with neurologically diverse learners in mind
2. How host Adam Coleman turned a passion for gaming into an enviable career in video game development 
3. How co-host Nick Archetto went from GameU student to GameU employee
4. What it’s actually like working for game development companies, and the differences to consider between large enterprises and small indie studios
5. Practical tips for building your portfolio of work and methods for showcasing it like a pro
6. Which tools and capabilities matter most and align with workplace demand 
7. Basics in game development and design, as Adam puts discussion into practice, showcasing how to build a game – live, in front of our eyes

GameU is the premium provider of online courses that teach video game creation, with a social mission to facilitate inclusivity in video game design. With curriculums crafted and taught by professional game developers, GameU courses equip individuals of all abilities – including the neurologically diverse – with the skills needed to succeed in the video game industry. AIE connects entertainment top brass with work-ready job candidates who are on the spectrum. The goal of AIE is to drive employment efforts in entertainment-related careers, including video game design. The AIE Workgroup is a result of a collaborative partnership between the not-for-profit Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG) and disability-focused consulting firm Zavikon, with additional funding from the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

Read more about the educational partnership between GameU and AIE in the joint media release published by the two organizations.

“We’ve been passionate advocates for inclusion in technology-based learning and industries – as well as specialist providers of coding, computer and digital design programs – for over 10 years now,” said GameU Chief Marketing Officer, Lachlan James. “And whilst we teach students of all ages and abilities, GameU’s primary focus is on empowering people with autism to learn in-demand skills that the modern workforce, and specifically that the video game development industry, requires. We truly believe that the path to better social inclusion and workforce participation is through providing people in this community with in-demand technical skills.” 

In the partnership announcement, Co-Founder and CEO, Mike Kawas, added that GameU was excited to work alongside AIE to help build career pathways in STEAM-based fields for those in the community on the spectrum.

“GameU is focused on equipping students, including those with special needs, with the skills to thrive in today’s and tomorrow’s digital economy,” said Kawas. “AIE’s belief that individuals on the autism spectrum can forge strong careers in entertainment-related fields, including game design, means our missions are well-aligned.”

OCASG President and Chair of AIE, Judi Uttal, introduced the webinar by explaining the role AIE plays in the autistic community. 

“We are a work group that is focused on helping increase employment for autistic talent in the entertainment space,” said Uttal. “We do that through expanding the concept of diversity, to include neurodiversity, by making sure that people see the autism brand. 

“[Broadly], employers are increasingly looking to hire people on the spectrum. So we want that same attitude as they evaluate hiring talent in entertainment related jobs. We also work with the businesses and let them know about the resources and organizations that are out there [to help them employ more people on the spectrum]. We want to give you the knowledge and the tools you need to navigate your own career.”

Over 10,000 students have learned valuable STEAM skills through GameU’s All Abilities Program, including more than 2,500 neurodiverse students. Meticulously designed to meet the unique needs of neurodiverse learners, GameU curriculum is tailored to the individual goals of each learner. 

GameU is an allowable service under many self-direction and traditional Medicaid waivers.

GameU already works with states and families throughout the US in this regard, including California – where AIE is headquartered. GameU’s Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)-aligned program includes courses in coding, animation, 3D modelling, digital art and design, and many more. 

To find out which of GameU’s over 220 course modules might be right for you, complete an inquiry today: 

GameU, the leading provider of premium online video game coding and design courses, was founded by an industry professional who wanted a fun way to transform his kids’ love of gaming into valuable STEAM skills. 

GameU’s mission is to facilitate inclusivity in the video game industry, empowering individuals of all abilities – including those with special needs – to learn the skills needed to succeed in game development.

With courses crafted and taught by professionals working in today’s video game sector, GameU is dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends. Students learn the latest skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of video game creation.

GameU virtually delivers a wide range of programs across three main avenues:

• All Abilities: Private one-to-one classes, tailored to each students’ needs, including neurologically diverse individuals
• For schools and districts: Built for specifically for K-12 school environments, GameU’s Hybrid+ Program transform students’ love of gaming into valuable STEAM skills with a blend of live instruction, on-demand learning and 1-to-1 training for in-classroom educators
• On-demand: Access to recorded classes, curriculum and game design software via Orbit, GameU’s Self-Guided Learning Platform

GameU provides a comprehensive learning experience that includes both live instruction and self-paced study. GameU is dedicated to empowering students and educators alike, helping them stay ahead of industry trends, to prepare them for the future of game development. For more information, visit game-u.com

To keep up-to-date with GameU classes, programs, events and more, follow GameU on social media: LinkedIn (GameU), Facebook (@GameUSchool), YouTube (@Gameunj), Instagram (@gameuschool), TikTok (@gameuschool_), X (@GameUSchool)

For regular news and thought leadership regarding video game design, video game coding and more, subscribe to GameU’s blog here.

For more information, visit autisminentertainment.org