10 Women Rising in Gaming
September 2026
Aeza Graham
Company: Passport Technology
Years of experience in the gaming industry: 7
Hometown: San Jose, 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 role in gaming was with Aristocrat Technologies, where I worked in project and program management supporting systems and Class III gaming. Before gaming, I spent 10 years in the U.S. Air Force, which really shaped the way I approach leadership, accountability, and working under pressure. I didn’t necessarily set out with gaming as the destination, but once I entered the industry, I was drawn to how dynamic it was. It brought together technology, operations, hospitality, and entertainment in a way I hadn’t experienced before. There was always something new to learn, a problem to solve, or a better way to do something. That combination really appealed to me and ultimately turned what started as an opportunity into a career I’ve become very passionate about.
What do you like about working in gaming? What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged? What is unique about it?
No two days are the same, and that is probably what I enjoy most. Gaming is incredibly fast-paced and constantly evolving. You’re working at the intersection of technology, operations, regulation, hospitality, and the customer experience, so even a seemingly simple change can involve a lot of moving pieces.
I also love that there is always an opportunity to make an impact. Whether it’s launching a new product, solving an operational challenge, improving a process, or helping a team work better together, you can actually see the result of the work you’re doing. It keeps you learning and forces you to stay adaptable. I’ve been in gaming for several years now, and I still encounter situations that challenge me to learn something new. I think that’s what keeps it interesting.
Looking ahead, what impact do you hope to make in the industry, and what would you like your leadership legacy to be?
I want my impact to extend beyond the products or projects I’ve helped deliver. Those accomplishments matter, but ultimately, I’d like my leadership legacy to be about the people and organizations I helped make better.
I want to build teams where people feel trusted to make decisions, take ownership, challenge the way things have always been done, and continue growing into bigger roles themselves. Some of the most rewarding moments in my career have been seeing someone I’ve mentored or worked alongside become more confident, take on greater responsibility, or realize they’re capable of more than they thought.
I also want to continue helping move the industry forward by bringing together technology and strong operational execution. Innovation is important, but making innovation actually work for customers is just as important. If I can look back and know that I helped develop great people, built stronger organizations, improved the way we operate, and helped make room for the next generation of leaders, I would consider that a meaningful legacy.
What personal and professional qualities or traits do you believe are essential for success in the gaming industry, and which of those qualities have helped you thrive in your own career?
Adaptability is probably at the top of my list. Gaming moves quickly, priorities shift, technology changes, and unexpected challenges are part of the job. You have to be comfortable adjusting course without losing sight of the end goal.
I also think curiosity, accountability, resilience, and collaboration are incredibly important. You have to be willing to ask questions and learn areas outside of your immediate responsibility. Gaming is too interconnected to operate in a silo, so understanding how your decisions affect customers, technology, compliance, finance, operations, and other teams makes you a much stronger leader.
Those qualities have played a major role in my own career. I’m naturally curious and very solutions-oriented. When I see a gap or something that isn’t working, my instinct is to understand why and figure out how we can make it better. My military background also taught me to remain composed when things are moving quickly, take responsibility, and focus on the mission while taking care of the people responsible for accomplishing it.
I’ve also learned that leadership doesn’t mean having every answer. Some of the best results come from bringing the right people together, listening to their expertise, removing obstacles, and empowering them to execute.
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
Don’t wait until you feel completely ready before pursuing an opportunity. Some of the biggest growth in my career has come from stepping into situations where I didn’t know everything yet and trusting myself to learn.
Be curious, ask questions, and learn beyond the boundaries of your job description. Understanding the bigger picture makes you more valuable and opens doors you may not even know exist yet. Build relationships and find mentors, sponsors, and peers who will challenge you, advocate for you, and give you honest feedback — and then do the same for other women as you advance.
I would also encourage women not to underestimate the value of their own perspective. You don’t have to lead exactly like someone else to be effective. Find the leadership style that is authentic to you, know what you bring to the table, and don’t be afraid to use your voice.
And when you do earn a seat at the table, remember that success isn’t just about occupying that seat. It’s also about helping create opportunities for the women coming behind you.
