▶ Black Executives On The Rise ▲
Henry L. Williams, Jr.
Current company and role: Executive Director, Michigan Gaming Control Board
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
First job in the gaming industry: My first job in the gaming industry was as a Regulation Officer (RO) in the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s Enforcement Section at Motor City Casino. It was a role in which I learned the ins and outs of casino operations, the importance of adhering to regulations, and the significance of resolving disputes efficiently. As an RO, I was responsible for ensuring that casinos were in compliance with rules and internal controls. My duties included monitoring table games, overseeing slot play, verifying jackpots that were more than $100,000, and receiving deliveries such as slot machines and cards. This hands-on experience provided me with a solid foundation in gaming regulation and enforcement practices.
What do you like about working in gaming?
I love the dynamic nature of working in gaming. Each day is unique with evolving technology, which keeps me engaged, and new situations, that require adaptability, and all of which constantly provide new challenges and opportunities. The industry’s continuous growth and innovation offer a sense of excitement and fulfillment. Being able to contribute to shaping regulations that safeguard Michigan citizens adds a deeper meaning to my work, ensuring a fair and responsible gaming environment. It’s a privilege to witness and be part of an industry that thrives on progress, moving forward with a commitment to excellence and consumer protection.
Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started?
The sheer scale of the gaming industry has always surprised me—the immense amount of money flowing through it, the countless jobs created, and the substantial tax revenue it generates. From day one to now, 23 years later, this industry’s impact continues to amaze me. Not only does gaming support game developers and publishers, but it also creates opportunities across various sectors such as uniforms, carpeting, food services, and more. The diverse ecosystem of trades and careers it sustains is truly impressive, offering a multitude of career path opportunities for individuals entering the industry.
Were you familiar with gambling before landing a job in the industry? What were your thoughts about gaming before starting to work in your position?
I wasn’t very familiar with the gaming industry before landing a job in it. I had never gambled nor visited a casino. My perspective was rather neutral, focusing on the financial benefits the casinos provided for the City of Detroit and the idea behind them as revenue providers for communities. Despite supporting their economic advantages, personal participation didn’t interest me. I worked too hard for my money to risk losing it. However, through my work in Detroit as a Child Protective Services worker, I was exposed to the gaming industry early on in other indirect ways.
For example, there was one time where I was called to go visit a family who reported not having access to food. After assessing their situation and living space, and in talking with the mother—who had three children in the home—more about what was going on, she shared that she only had $30 for groceries but had plans to gamble it at the casino to try to double it. This experience showed me firsthand how devastating the effects of gambling could potentially become on families and reinforced my commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices and ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals. It also highlighted the need for stringent regulations and support systems to prevent such situations, and I’m proud—in my role as Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board today—to be able to directly help my community and hometown of Detroit, along with the rest of the Great Lakes State, in this way.
Looking back, I’d say that my early detachment has since evolved into a comprehensive view of the industry, balancing economic considerations with social implications. This journey has underscored the importance of responsible gaming practices and the need for vigilant oversight to ensure the gaming industry’s sustainability and integrity.
Has your impression of the industry changed at all?
My impression of the gaming industry has evolved significantly since I first started as a gaming regulator. While I still thoroughly enjoy coming to work every day, what has changed is my appreciation for the depth and complexity of the industry. There is always more to learn about the dynamic landscape of gaming and its continued growth.
One aspect that has become increasingly important to me is finding ways to eliminate unnecessary regulatory red tape while ensuring the integrity of gaming and protecting Michigan citizens. I enjoy engaging with industry stakeholders to achieve a balanced regulatory environment that fosters innovation and responsible gaming practices. This constant evolution keeps me motivated and committed to ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment in one of the country’s fastest-growing gaming markets.
What major trends do you see emerging in the gaming industry over the next 5 to 10 years?
As the gaming landscape evolves and continues to grow, an increasing priority will be to safeguard players through enhanced protective measures. In the coming years, I predict responsible gaming initiatives will take center stage with increased measures in place to protect citizens, coupled with more robust treatment options for problem gamblers. Regulators will require additional resources to tackle online illegal gambling and address the proliferation of unregulated gray machines. I also think the industry will need more innovative tools to shield minors from the risks of gambling, ensuring a safer environment for all.
What advice would you give to aspiring leaders in the gaming industry?
My advice to aspiring leaders in the gaming industry is to work hard, take chances, and don’t be afraid to learn different areas and aspects of gaming. Success in this industry thrives on dedication, calculated risk-taking, and a thirst for knowledge across various gaming facets. Embrace challenges, be open to exploring different realms within gaming, and seek advice from experienced mentors. Never allow doubt to deter your ambitions; persist, learn, and grow. Ask questions—lots of them—and strive to expand your expertise and skill set continuously, as versatility is key in this dynamic field. Remember, the path to leadership demands courage, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Above all, have faith in yourself and your abilities—and never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.
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