10 Women Rising in Gaming
Melissa Cox
Company: Gaming Capital Group, VP Marketing and Customer Relations
Years of experience in the gaming industry: 18
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska/Norman, Oklahoma (current)
What was your first job in the gaming industry? Sales & Marketing Manager, Gaming Capital Group
Did you have previous experience in other industries?
Nope! I have grown up in gaming.
What drew you to gaming?
I can’t say anything drew me to gaming, but gaming certainly did find me.
Were you familiar with gambling, casinos, sports betting or any of the other facets of the industry before you started?
Not at all! I had been to a few casinos but until you are really in it, you don’t realize there is an entire industry supporting it.
Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started?
I really didn’t know what to expect when I started at GCG. I think my biggest surprise is how the industry embraced me. I was SO green when I started and the people who supported me are such a big part of why I am who I am today.
What do you like about working in gaming?
I LOVE the gaming industry. The people in this industry are so awesome and some are my best friends, my family and what keep me going. I thank my lucky stars every day that this Nebraska girl was chosen to be a part of something so special.
What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged?
THE PEOPLE! I believe the people are truly what keep us all engaged. We all run hard, but we all do it because we love what we are doing and the people we get to do it with. (Well most days anyways! HA!)
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
Be yourself. The gaming industry is very male dominating and that can be both intimating and infuriating at times but being yourself is always the best way to help you navigate through it all. Women in the gaming industry (in all industries) continue to break ceilings and it’s important that you always try to be the best version of yourself.
What are your long-term goals? What do you hope to accomplish?
My life completely changed when I had my sweet babe, Violet (7) and along with it, my long-term goals. My long-term goal now, to take my own advice and be the best version of myself and live life happy, even when it challenges you the most. As for accomplishments, I am learning more and more that life is truly is too short, and I just want to continue to set a good example to those around me. Not only is life short, but it can be hard, too, so it’s important to always remember that accomplishments come in big and small ways.
Do you think there is a personality type that’s well suited for this industry?
Absolutely! I think that most in the gaming industry have a “work hard, play hard” personality and because of that we can get through all the long days, nights, and weekends. Our personalities are what help get us through so much and help us all to push forward so we can continue innovate and keep this awesome industry alive.
What personality traits do you possess that help you in this industry?
I have that “work hard, play hard” personality and it’s been with me for most of my life. I am often asked, how do handle it all and my answer is always simple, I love what I do. The trait I have is the ability to keep up with most of it and when I can’t, I am a really good sleeper. 😉
What do you wish you would have known starting out in gaming?
Honestly, I don’t think anything. I have grown up in this industry and each moment thrown my way has helped mold me into the person I am today.
Do you have any resource recommendations/suggestions for other people who desire a career in gaming?
Women in gaming, please join Global Gaming Women! GGW changed my life. I wasn’t always the confident person I am today, and I have GGW to thank for being one of those life changing moments.
