Lambton College has introduced a new Esports Enterpreneurship & Administration program, to help train students for careers in the lucrative and fast-growing world of competitive gaming. We spoke to Matthew Hutchinson, Program Coordinator, to learn more about how this unique new program came to be.
What kinds of career opportunities are there in esports, beyond competing as a player, that this program will help prepare graduates for?
There are many opportunities for Esports Entrepreneurship and Administration graduates. Here is a short list of some of the many careers that await graduates;
- Esports Event Organizer
- Esports Tournament Manager
- Esports Manager
- Esports Coach
- Partnership Manager
- Esports Business Journalist/Analyst
- Brand Manager
- EMarketing Associate/Manager
- Emedia Coordinator
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Specialist
- Emarketing Content Manager/Specialist
- WordPress & Prestashop Developer
- Web Developer
- Web Marketing Consultant
- Production Manager or Associate
The opportunities are vast and very diverse. As the Esports Industry continues to grow and expand the industry creates an economic ripple effect into other supporting industries which further expands the list of opportunities that are being created within the Esports Industry.
How long did it take to get this new program developed and launched?
The Lambton College Esports Entrepreneurship and Administration program started in September of 2018. The Esports Arena was built first and opened in September of 2017. Lambton College Varsity Esports team started in September of 2017 as well. It takes time to develop and launch a new program and the College recognized that it first needed facilities and a varsity program to be ready to launch our program.
How will you ensure that the curriculum stays current with a fast growing and evolving industry?
We have connected with many Industry organizations and have established a diverse program advisory committee to help ensure the direction and growth of our program into the future. With the knowledge and expertise provided by our diverse group of industry experts we will be able to stay ahead of the changes that arise in this ever evolving industry.
What has the early response been within the esports industry?
The early response to our program within the industry has been well received and we are already seeing a number of other schools jumping into the Esports realm as well to take advantage of this growing industry. Programs like St. Clair and Durham saw the success we had with our program and launched their own programs as well. Obviously increased competition int his space was inevitable but we feel that by being the first program in Canada we have distinguished ourselves and have established strong Industry partnerships that will strengthen our program moving forward.
Do you have a story that we could feature in a future Q&A? Email greg.picken@techalliance.ca and let us know!
