10 Women Rising in Gaming
Adriana Kasunic
Company, position: The Venetian Las Vegas Resort, Vice President People Operations
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
What was your first job in the gaming industry? Did you have previous experience in other industries? What drew you to gaming?
My first role in the gaming industry was as an Employment Coordinator at the Bellagio Employment Center. I took the position to complete my required industry hours for graduation from UNLV.
Before entering gaming, I gained Human Resources experience with the Clark County School District during high school and while attending UNLV.
Although I didn’t have direct gaming experience before starting my career, I was born and raised in Las Vegas, so the industry was always part of my world. I loved taking visiting family to the Strip—the lights and the sounds of the slot machines were mesmerizing. Growing up, I was fortunate to travel extensively and even lived in Turkey for two years. That exposure, combined with my love of travel and hospitality, naturally drew me to the gaming industry.
What do you like about working in gaming? What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged? What is unique about it?
What I like most about working in gaming is that no two days are exactly the same. There is always something happening whether it is a challenge to solve, a new initiative or change to roll out an opportunity to support the Team Members in different ways.
Working in HR, I get to be right in the middle of it all, helping team members grow their careers, creating a positive work environment, and making sure the team has what they need to deliver Unexpected Joy to our guests. The industry is so fast paced and dynamic which keeps me motivated and engaged. There is nothing like the unique mix of hospitality, entertainment and people that gaming brings together.
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
My advice for women pursuing a career in gaming is to be confident in your abilities and know there’s a place for you here. The industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving, so stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges.
I also recommend engaging with organizations like Global Gaming Women (GGW), which provide networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Most importantly, seek out mentors and build relationships with people who will both support and challenge you. A strong network can make a huge difference in navigating your career and opening doors to new opportunities.
What personality traits do you possess that help you in this industry?
Several traits have helped me succeed in the gaming industry. First, adaptability—things move fast, and every day brings new challenges. Being able to pivot quickly and guide teams through change is essential.
Second, being people-driven. In HR, listening and understanding diverse perspectives is critical to creating an environment where team members feel supported and empowered.
Lastly, collaboration. I enjoy involving others in the decision-making process and encouraging input. These traits have allowed me to lead with both confidence and empathy, which I believe is key to building strong, engaged teams.
What do you wish you would have known starting out in gaming?
When I first entered the gaming industry, I wish I had truly understood how fast paced and ever-changing it could be. It’s an exciting industry that I love, but priorities can shift in an instant. Early on, I thought I needed to have everything perfectly planned, but I’ve since learned that flexibility and openness to change are just as important as having a solid plan.
I also wish I had realized sooner the importance of networking and mentorship. Building relationships—with peers, leaders, and through organizations like Global Gaming Women—has been invaluable. While the gaming industry is vast, it’s also very connected, and having a strong network makes navigating it much easier.
Above all, I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. Looking back, I would remind myself that it’s about progress, not perfection—embrace the unexpected and trust the process.
