Webinar/Podcast
October 24, 2023
Join us for an informative webinar featuring a Studio Engineering Director from Frost Giant Studios, a new studio working to revolutionize the RTS genre.
Esports has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years and has become an integral part of many educational institutions. However, many students still have questions about how to pursue a career in esports and what jobs are available outside of being a pro player.
In this webinar, Andrew Sabri will share his experiences and expertise on how to pursue a career in game development and design, including various connected career pathways, the roles of developers, directors, and engineers, and how gaming can be a catalyst for young people to pursue technology and computer science in education and the job market. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and gain valuable insights into the world of academic esports!
Esports enthusiasts, educators, and students—ever wondered what it takes to become a leader in the gaming industry? Today, we unravel the career of Andrew Sabri, Studio Engineering Director at Frost Giant Studios. Whether you're an aspiring game developer or a teacher guiding future talents, this post will provide you with valuable insights into the path that leads to a fulfilling career in game development.
With a career spanning over 15 years in the gaming industry, Andrew Sabri, the Studio Engineering Director at Frost Giant Studios, has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience, making him a true expert in the field. Andrew's career trajectory offers a unique perspective on how passion for video games can translate into a fulfilling profession closely linked to his passion.
Andrew's journey to becoming a top engineering leader in the video game industry began with a deep-rooted passion for video games, sparked at a young age by titles like Warcraft II and Quake. This fascination led him to pursue a degree in computer science at Virginia Tech, where he built the foundation for his career. Throughout college, Andrew seized internship and research opportunities which helped him prepare for the rigors of the gaming industry. His early gaming experiences not only ignited his interest in programming but also shaped his focus on game development during his education and professional life.
Before joining Frost Giant Studios, Andrew spent 15 years at Electronic Arts (EA), one of the largest video game companies in the world. At EA, he worked on some of the most iconic titles like Madden NFL and FIFA. Starting as a software engineer, Andrew climbed the ranks to become a Technical Director, gaining invaluable experience in game development and team leadership.
Today, as the Studio Engineering Director at Frost Giant Studios, Andrew wears many hats. His role involves overseeing the engineering team, managing projects, and ensuring the technical success of their games. Working at a smaller studio like Frost Giant allows him to be hands-on and deeply involved in various aspects of game development, from technical planning to direct communication with the marketing team.
One of the most exciting aspects of Andrew's current role is the opportunity to build a game from the ground up. Frost Giant Studios is currently working on Stormgate, a next-generation real-time strategy game. Andrew's involvement in every stage of development, from concept art to playtesting, showcases the dynamic nature of his job and the immense satisfaction that comes from seeing a project evolve.
Andrew's career offers valuable lessons for students and teachers interested in the gaming industry. Here are some key takeaways:
Andrew's story underscores the importance of following one's passion. Whether it's playing video games or creating them, staying true to what you love can lead to a rewarding career.
For aspiring game developers, gaining practical experience is crucial. Andrew recommends working on personal projects, participating in hackathons, and contributing to open-source projects. These experiences not only enhance your skills but also make your resume stand out.
For those interested in non-engineering roles like art and design, having a strong portfolio is essential. Showcasing your work through projects and creating a reel of your best pieces can significantly increase your chances of landing a job in the industry.
The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable is key. Andrew's willingness to learn new skills and take on different roles throughout his career has been instrumental in his success.
Andrew's journey highlights the importance of support and mentorship. He credits his family's support and the mentorship he received from industry veterans as crucial factors in his career growth. Aspiring professionals should seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support.
Andrew Sabri's career in esports and game development serves as an inspiring example for students, educators, and esports enthusiasts. His passion for video games, combined with his dedication to learning and growth, has led him to become a prominent leader in the gaming industry. By following his advice and insights, aspiring game developers can take meaningful steps toward achieving their career goals.
Are your students ready to dive into the exciting world of game development? Consider Mastery Coding's Game and App Development Pathway—a two-year, project-based curriculum designed for high schools. Here, students learn to build video games from scratch and develop a portfolio full of projects.
If you have students who are passionate about video games, join the USAEL to harness their passion for video games while fostering interest in technology and other careers.
Andrew Sabri is an Engineering Leader in the world of game design that excels at managing technical leaders, engineering managers, and engineers. He received his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Math from Virginia Tech in 2006. From 2006 to 2021, he worked at Electronic Arts (EA) in various roles and contributed to over a dozen AAA titles since Madden NFL 07. He currently works with Frost Giant Studios where he is the Studio Engineering Director. Andrew has experience managing and leading multiple teams simultaneously across almost all domains.
