10 Women Rising in Gaming
Michelle Schenk
Company, position: IGT, Director Global Communications
Hometown: Placerville, California
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 was a public relations coordinator position for Harrah’s Entertainment (now Caesars Entertainment). Throughout my time there, my responsibilities evolved quite a lot, but when I took the job, I was on the team responsible for managing all property-level PR for five Las Vegas Strip properties: Harrah’s, O’Sheas, Flamingo, Imperial Palace and Bill’s Gambling Hall. My position had a heavy focus on crisis communications and the promotion of our entertainment and dining options. My hallmark projects there were launching Donny and Marie, openings many restaurants, and introducing the Flamingo’s snazzy “GO Rooms.”
Prior to joining Harrah’s, I had no experience in the gaming industry. In fact I when I applied for the job, I was working at a local PR and advertising agency that primarily represented clients in the professional services sector. I had a realization one day that I lived in the most exciting city in the world, yet my job did not bring me much excitement. With that, I pursued a job on the Las Vegas Strip and never looked back!
What do you like about working in gaming? What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged? What is unique about it?
There are many reasons why I enjoy working in the gaming industry. First, I love the people. Throughout my career in gaming, I’ve had the privilege to connect with and learn from amazing professionals around the world. I also embrace the fact that gaming is inherently fun – we’re in the business of making games that are enjoyed by people worldwide. Finally, I enjoy being in a highly strategic role that supports a variety of business objectives.
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
Go for it! The gaming industry truly has something for everyone. Once you arrive, lean in. Lean in to learning opportunities, to new tasks, to building relationships. Like so many things in life, “you get out what you put in,” so if you work hard and maximize opportunities and relationships, the industry has a lot to offer. I would also encourage women to ask questions. The industry can be a bit overwhelming to a newcomer, but we’ve all ben there. Asking questions demonstrates interest and critical thinking – again, go for it!
Do you think there is a personality type that’s well suited for this industry?
More important than personality type, I think a flexible, growth-focused mindset is critical for longevity in the gaming industry. Gaming operates in a dynamic, competitive, global space with ever-changing conditions, opportunities and challenges. The ability to thrive through change, lead through chaos and maintain relationships through transitions differentiates top talent.
Do you have any resource recommendations/suggestions for other people who desire a career in gaming?
Although the gaming industry is vast in terms of revenue and geography, at its core, the gaming community is quite small. If the real world has six degrees of separation, the gaming industry likely has two. Invest in people and building relationships within your own company and at other companies. For women, I highly recommend joining Global Gaming Women at whatever level of commitment your day-to-day life allows. Whether it’s an occasional mixer, or taking on a more advanced leadership role, the organization has so much to offer in terms of education, networking and professional development.
