10 Women Rising in Gaming
Lana Rivera
Company, position: Graton Resort and Casino, President
Hometown: Joliet, Illinois
What was your first job in the gaming industry? Did you have previous experience in other industries? What drew you to gaming?
My first job in the gaming industry started at the age of 21 dealing blackjack, I opened Harrah’s riverboard casino Joliet, Illinois. Growing up my family’s past time was playing cards. My parents would let me deal cards at the table because I was too young to play the game. As I got older, I continued to play cards with my family and still do to this day. Needless to say, I was intrigued by just the thought I could get paid for dealing a game.
Were you familiar with gambling, casinos, sports betting or any of the other facets of the industry before you started? Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started?
The first day I stepped into a casino was my first day of work. I became a high limit dealer after my first day of dealing. I was amazed by every part of the business. I was so surprised by the amount of money people would gamble and the time they would spend at the tables. As I got to know people it was fascinating to watch their behavior. I became familiar with all the regulars they weren’t there to pass time they were there to win money. I was so intrigued by their mindset that some approached gambling as a side hustle, and others came in with a strategy. I will never forget one player he was an accountant, and he kept track of his win/loss. After every session he would tally his night, right at the table, then tell me how he was doing for the year. At one point he was up for the year, I remember he said he bought a corvette with his winnings. We all know how the year ended.
What do you like about working in gaming? What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged? What is unique about it?
I love the fast paced, excitement, competitiveness, and all the challenges. I work weekends, I love being on the casino floor. This allows me time to sit back and observe the guest experience. Also allows me time to talk with our team members and mingle with our guests.
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
Get after it.
Whatever it is you want to achieve in your career – go for it. Too often, women hold back out of timidity or insecurity. You have to push through that. Be relentless, work harder than everyone around you, know your business and be an expert in your field. Let your knowledge and work ethic speak louder than any doubt.
When times are tough don’t get discouraged. Challenges will come, but no matter how hard it gets, don’t give up.
What are your long-term goals? What do you hope to accomplish?
My primary goal is to spearhead the successful and timely completion of our $1 billion expansion project. I’m focused on delivering excellence at every step, with the ultimate objective of ensuring this new initiative drives future growth and success for the company and the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria.
Do you think there is a personality type that’s well suited for this industry?
Yes, no matter what role you’re in, you have to like people, you’re going to deal with people whether that’s front of house or back of house you have to be a people person.
What personality traits do you possess that help you in this industry?
I’d say the qualities that serve me best are self-awareness, humility, compassion, and drive. My self-awareness allows me to recognize my strengths and weaknesses, which helps me know when to ask for help or when to delegate. I’m also very humble and willing to admit when I’m wrong, which fosters trust on my team. I lead with compassion to better understand my colleagues’ needs, and my personal drive ensures that I’m always looking for ways to grow and improve.
What do you wish you would have known starting out in gaming?
Where I would be today. My journey has been fascinating.
Do you have any resource recommendations/suggestions for other people who desire a career in gaming?
Network, people in the industry are always willing to help and provide insight. Especially if you’re trying something new, I always say learning from someone else’s mistakes is easier than learning from your own.
Never be afraid to ask for help. Early in my career, I needed some help over a math equation no one I knew could help me. At the time I was reading the 2nd Edition Casino Operation Management (I’m showing my age, lol) so I reached out to Jim Kilby, who was one of the authors and at the time was a gaming professor at UNLV. I didn’t know him, but I thought I would reach out. Not only did he respond but he took my problem to the class as a project and offered assistance anytime I needed.
Take advantage of online courses and if your organization offers a mentorship program put your name in the hat.
How do/did you overcome adversity in the industry?
I’ve been very fortunate to have support at home and in the workplace. I have a foundation of family and friends, I had/have great mentors and built long lasting relationships with various people in the industry.
Where I’m at today, I’m very fortunate to have a great team. When big issues arise, we work through them together.
