IGDA Newsletter - June 2009
===========================
IGDA Newsletter - June 2009
===========================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
1: A Word From Bob Bates
2: Welcome Joshua Caulfield - IGDA's New Executive Director
3: IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Registration Opens July 6!
4: Boston Chapter advocates for anti-non-competes bill in Massachusetts
5: Autodesk program supports displaced workers
6: Interactive Audio SIG Seeks Curriculum Contributors
7: Event Action: GDC Europe, Casual Connect
8: Columns Update
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
10: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
======================================
========================
1: A Word From Bob Bates
========================
Dear members and friends,
Happy Gaming,
Dear Members and Friends,
I am very happy to tell you that our search for an Executive Director is over!
The Board has reached an agreement with Joshua Caulfield, an accomplished
and experienced association management executive who has the added plus of being an avid gamer.
I know some people may be surprised that we decided to hire someone from the
association management field, rather than a game industry “luminary.”
But what became clear to the board as we worked our way through an
evaluation of the org is that most of the challenges the IGDA faces
are not due to a lack of knowledge about the game industry
(which our board and our key volunteers have in abundance),
but rather a lack of knowledge about how to *run an association*
and to serve the needs of our SIGS, Chapters, and members. There are
professionals who do this for a living, and Joshua is one of the best.
Probably the biggest change that this will bring to the way we think
about the ED role is that Joshua will not be the “voice of the IGDA”
to the media and general public. The role of spokesperson will go
to the Chair (currently me!) and Joshua will be an “inward-facing”
ED so he can focus his full attention on the smooth operation of the org.
Joshua has already begun reaching out to the SIG and Chapter leaders
and to the folks at Talley Management Group. They have been helping
him come up to speed quickly about the operations side of the organization,
and he has also begun the longer-term task of learning about our industry,
our members, and how to further the IGDA’s mission of improving the careers
and lives of all of us in the game development community.
I am very excited about Joshua coming on board. I think that as you
get to know him and see what he brings to our group, you will be too.
There are a lot of things going on, and he'll need time to get to each
of them in turn, but he's been very open to hearing from all of our diverse
membership, and I encourage you to send him an email (joshua@igda.org)
if you have a concern that needs to be addressed.
--Bob Bates
Chairperson, IGDA
**************************************************
** Ad: SIGGRAPH 2009, 3-7 August in New Orleans **
**************************************************
SIGGRAPH 2009 will bring an anticipated 20,000 computer graphics
and interactive technology professionals from six continents to
New Orleans, Louisiana, for the industry's most respected technical
and creative programs focusing on research, science, art, animation,
music, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from 3 - 7 August.
SIGGRAPH 2009 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services
from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace, More than 200
international exhibiting companies are expected. Register now: www.siggraph.org/s2009.
*******************************************************************
====================================
2: New Executive Director joins IGDA
====================================
Joshua Caulfield of Kensington, MD, has been named the IGDA’s new executive director.
Joshua brings more than a decade of association leadership experience to the new position.
In his new role, Joshua will work closely with the elected board to further the IGDA’s goals of
advancing the careers and enhancing the lives of game developers everywhere. Joshua is passionate
about games and he has introduced himself to IGDA Chapter and SIG leaders, spending time with them
to get to know more about IGDA. Joshua welcomes members to get to know him via a new blog posted at igdaed.wordpress.com.
====================================================================================================================
3: Registration Opens July 6 for IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Sign up early to save your seat and the best discounts!
====================================================================================================================
Industry Veteran Chris Satchell, Brett Douville of Bethesda Softworks,
and David Steele of EA are just a few of the confirmed speakers headlining
IGDA's 2009 Leadership Forum, set for November 12-13 in San Francisco.
Returning sponsors Autodesk, EA Partners and Hansoft have also committed
their support and additional sponsors are joining the sponsors list as this
newsletter is going to press. This event focuses on advancing the state of
the art in game production and management. IGDA is holding the line on
registration costs, but members need to register by September 9 to enjoy
the maximum discount. See http://www.igda.org/leadership/registration/ for details.
===========================
4: IGDA Boston Chapter works to pass bill.
===========================
The Boston Post Mortem went on record supporting House Bill 1794,
legislation intended to end non-competes in Massachusetts. IGDA Chair
Bob Bates and IGDA's advocacy committee worked closely with
Boston Chapter Coordinator Darius Kazemi to support the chapters efforts.
Darius was extremely proactive in bringing the matter to IGDA's attention.
The legislation is still in process, with no outcome as of the deadline for
this newsletter. Learn more about the chapter's position and efforts at http://www.bostonpostmortem.org
==================
5: Autodesk Launches New Program for Displaced Workers
=====================
Autodesk announced the launch of The Assistance Program,
designed to help displaced workers maintain and develop
their 3D design technology skills and help improve their employability
in a down economy. IGDA members who’ve lost their jobs may wish to learn about the program offering:
• Free 90-day licenses of Autodesk 3ds Max and Autodesk Maya software
• Free online training
• Discussion groups
• And more
The program also offers aide for firms such as software discounts
and online resources to help win new business. For more information, visit www.autodesk.com/assistance
========================================================
6: Interactive Audio SIG seeks curriculum contributors
========================================================
For IGDA members who are interested in helping prepare students
to work in our industry, the Interactive Audio Special Interest Group
(www.iasig.org) is developing a full four-year game audio curriculum for
colleges and universities. Because of the large scope of this initiative
the IASIG is seeking IGDA members to help complete the document.
There is also an opening to chair the audio education working group so
this is a great opportunity for interested IGDA members to take a
leadership role in audio education. Visit www.iasig.org or email kheiden@mac.com for more details.
**************************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Art Complete**
**************************************************************************
Game Art Complete: All-in-One: Learn Maya, 3ds Max, ZBrush,
and Photoshop Winning Techniques by Andrew Gahan is a
compilation of key chapters from the top Focal game art books
available today - in the areas of Max, Maya, Photoshop, and ZBrush.
The chapters provide the CG Artist with an excellent sampling of
essential techniques that every 3D artist needs to create stunning game art.
Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Art Complete on Amazon.com or BN.com and you're one of the first ten people to respond, you'll get a free copy of the book!
http://www.focalpress.com/giveaway.aspx?ekfrm=6736
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
=============================
7: Event Action: GDC Europe, Casual Connect
=============================
Member discounts at upcoming events include:
- % member discount for GDC Europe in Cologne, Germany (17-19 August)
- % member discount for Casual Connect in Seattle ()
Full discount details and links available online:
http://www.igda.org/events/
==================
8: Columns Update
==================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Developer's reps that say "DANGER AHEAD"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_Jun09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"Ignoring Occam - When blame goes bad"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_Jun09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"The Whole Game School Thing"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_Jun09.php
============================
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
============================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Perth:
Tuesday, August 11 > Design Theme Night
http://www.igda.org/perth/
Montreal:
Report, June 25 > Summer Fun: Social + E3 Demos
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/06/summer_fun_soci.html
===================
10: Logistical Bits
===================
Unsubscribe/Subscribe to Newsletter
-----------------------------------
To unsubscribe simply send an email with the subject "unsubscribe" to igda@igda.org.
Or, you can update your newsletter subscription details via your MyProfile page:
http://www.igda.org/membership/myprofile.php
Thanks to our Partners
----------------------
The IGDA extends its sincerest thanks to all our Partners! Especially those who just joined us, or recently renewed their commitment to support the game development community:
- Columbus State Community College - Integrated Media & Technology Department
- UC San Diego Extension Digital Arts Center
- GameStreamer Inc.
- Maryland Film Office
Without their support the IGDA simply would not survive - let alone thrive.
Further details and a complete list of Partners are available online:
http://www.igda.org/partners
Contact Information
-------------------
Please contact us if you have questions, comments or input:
http://www.igda.org/contact.php
19 Mantua Road
Mount Royal, New Jersey
USA 08061
RSS Feeds for IGDA News and Chapter Updates
-------------------------------------------
The IGDA web site has RSS feeds for IGDA news (eg, org announcements, committee work, etc) and chapter updates (eg, upcoming meetings, event reports). Those using RSS readers can point to:
IGDA News: http://www.igda.org/igda_news_rss.php
IGDA Chapter Updates: http://www.igda.org/igda_chapters_rss.php
-------
- end -
-------
This message was sent by: IGDA, 19 Mantua Road, Mt Royal, NJ 08061
Powered by iContact: http://freetrial.icontact.com
Manage your subscription:
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IGDA Newsletter - June 2009
===========================
=================
Table of Contents
=================
1: A Word From Bob Bates
2: Welcome Joshua Caulfield - IGDA's New Executive Director
3: IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Registration Opens July 6!
4: Boston Chapter advocates for anti-non-competes bill in Massachusetts
5: Autodesk program supports displaced workers
6: Interactive Audio SIG Seeks Curriculum Contributors
7: Event Action: GDC Europe, Casual Connect
8: Columns Update
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
10: Logistical Bits & Unsubscribe Info
======================================
========================
1: A Word From Bob Bates
========================
Dear members and friends,
Happy Gaming,
Dear Members and Friends,
I am very happy to tell you that our search for an Executive Director is over!
The Board has reached an agreement with Joshua Caulfield, an accomplished
and experienced association management executive who has the added plus of being an avid gamer.
I know some people may be surprised that we decided to hire someone from the
association management field, rather than a game industry “luminary.”
But what became clear to the board as we worked our way through an
evaluation of the org is that most of the challenges the IGDA faces
are not due to a lack of knowledge about the game industry
(which our board and our key volunteers have in abundance),
but rather a lack of knowledge about how to *run an association*
and to serve the needs of our SIGS, Chapters, and members. There are
professionals who do this for a living, and Joshua is one of the best.
Probably the biggest change that this will bring to the way we think
about the ED role is that Joshua will not be the “voice of the IGDA”
to the media and general public. The role of spokesperson will go
to the Chair (currently me!) and Joshua will be an “inward-facing”
ED so he can focus his full attention on the smooth operation of the org.
Joshua has already begun reaching out to the SIG and Chapter leaders
and to the folks at Talley Management Group. They have been helping
him come up to speed quickly about the operations side of the organization,
and he has also begun the longer-term task of learning about our industry,
our members, and how to further the IGDA’s mission of improving the careers
and lives of all of us in the game development community.
I am very excited about Joshua coming on board. I think that as you
get to know him and see what he brings to our group, you will be too.
There are a lot of things going on, and he'll need time to get to each
of them in turn, but he's been very open to hearing from all of our diverse
membership, and I encourage you to send him an email (joshua@igda.org)
if you have a concern that needs to be addressed.
--Bob Bates
Chairperson, IGDA
**************************************************
** Ad: SIGGRAPH 2009, 3-7 August in New Orleans **
**************************************************
SIGGRAPH 2009 will bring an anticipated 20,000 computer graphics
and interactive technology professionals from six continents to
New Orleans, Louisiana, for the industry's most respected technical
and creative programs focusing on research, science, art, animation,
music, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from 3 - 7 August.
SIGGRAPH 2009 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services
from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace, More than 200
international exhibiting companies are expected. Register now: www.siggraph.org/s2009.
*******************************************************************
====================================
2: New Executive Director joins IGDA
====================================
Joshua Caulfield of Kensington, MD, has been named the IGDA’s new executive director.
Joshua brings more than a decade of association leadership experience to the new position.
In his new role, Joshua will work closely with the elected board to further the IGDA’s goals of
advancing the careers and enhancing the lives of game developers everywhere. Joshua is passionate
about games and he has introduced himself to IGDA Chapter and SIG leaders, spending time with them
to get to know more about IGDA. Joshua welcomes members to get to know him via a new blog posted at igdaed.wordpress.com.
====================================================================================================================
3: Registration Opens July 6 for IGDA Leadership Forum 2009; Sign up early to save your seat and the best discounts!
====================================================================================================================
Industry Veteran Chris Satchell, Brett Douville of Bethesda Softworks,
and David Steele of EA are just a few of the confirmed speakers headlining
IGDA's 2009 Leadership Forum, set for November 12-13 in San Francisco.
Returning sponsors Autodesk, EA Partners and Hansoft have also committed
their support and additional sponsors are joining the sponsors list as this
newsletter is going to press. This event focuses on advancing the state of
the art in game production and management. IGDA is holding the line on
registration costs, but members need to register by September 9 to enjoy
the maximum discount. See http://www.igda.org/leadership/registration/ for details.
===========================
4: IGDA Boston Chapter works to pass bill.
===========================
The Boston Post Mortem went on record supporting House Bill 1794,
legislation intended to end non-competes in Massachusetts. IGDA Chair
Bob Bates and IGDA's advocacy committee worked closely with
Boston Chapter Coordinator Darius Kazemi to support the chapters efforts.
Darius was extremely proactive in bringing the matter to IGDA's attention.
The legislation is still in process, with no outcome as of the deadline for
this newsletter. Learn more about the chapter's position and efforts at http://www.bostonpostmortem.org
==================
5: Autodesk Launches New Program for Displaced Workers
=====================
Autodesk announced the launch of The Assistance Program,
designed to help displaced workers maintain and develop
their 3D design technology skills and help improve their employability
in a down economy. IGDA members who’ve lost their jobs may wish to learn about the program offering:
• Free 90-day licenses of Autodesk 3ds Max and Autodesk Maya software
• Free online training
• Discussion groups
• And more
The program also offers aide for firms such as software discounts
and online resources to help win new business. For more information, visit www.autodesk.com/assistance
========================================================
6: Interactive Audio SIG seeks curriculum contributors
========================================================
For IGDA members who are interested in helping prepare students
to work in our industry, the Interactive Audio Special Interest Group
(www.iasig.org) is developing a full four-year game audio curriculum for
colleges and universities. Because of the large scope of this initiative
the IASIG is seeking IGDA members to help complete the document.
There is also an opening to chair the audio education working group so
this is a great opportunity for interested IGDA members to take a
leadership role in audio education. Visit www.iasig.org or email kheiden@mac.com for more details.
**************************************************************************
** Ad: Love writing Amazon reviews? Get a free copy of Game Art Complete**
**************************************************************************
Game Art Complete: All-in-One: Learn Maya, 3ds Max, ZBrush,
and Photoshop Winning Techniques by Andrew Gahan is a
compilation of key chapters from the top Focal game art books
available today - in the areas of Max, Maya, Photoshop, and ZBrush.
The chapters provide the CG Artist with an excellent sampling of
essential techniques that every 3D artist needs to create stunning game art.
Sounds awesome, right? Well, we need your help to spread the word about this exciting new title...
If you'd like to review Game Art Complete on Amazon.com or BN.com and you're one of the first ten people to respond, you'll get a free copy of the book!
http://www.focalpress.com/giveaway.aspx?ekfrm=6736
While you're there, you can view chapter samples, video tutorials, and podcasts, or sign up for the latest tips and discounts newsletter.
=============================
7: Event Action: GDC Europe, Casual Connect
=============================
Member discounts at upcoming events include:
- % member discount for GDC Europe in Cologne, Germany (17-19 August)
- % member discount for Casual Connect in Seattle ()
Full discount details and links available online:
http://www.igda.org/events/
==================
8: Columns Update
==================
Monthly columns have been updated:
Famous Last Words
-----------------
"Developer's reps that say "DANGER AHEAD"
http://www.igda.org/columns/lastwords/lastwords_Jun09.php
Culture Clash
-------------
"Ignoring Occam - When blame goes bad"
http://www.igda.org/columns/clash/clash_Jun09.php
The Games Game
--------------
"The Whole Game School Thing"
http://www.igda.org/columns/gamesgame/gamesgame_Jun09.php
============================
9: Chapter Meetings/Reports
============================
Complete list of chapter reports and upcoming meetings:
http://www.igda.org/chapters/updates.php
Perth:
Tuesday, August 11 > Design Theme Night
http://www.igda.org/perth/
Montreal:
Report, June 25 > Summer Fun: Social + E3 Demos
http://www.igda.org/montreal/archives/2009/06/summer_fun_soci.html
===================
10: Logistical Bits
===================
Unsubscribe/Subscribe to Newsletter
-----------------------------------
To unsubscribe simply send an email with the subject "unsubscribe" to igda@igda.org.
Or, you can update your newsletter subscription details via your MyProfile page:
http://www.igda.org/membership/myprofile.php
Thanks to our Partners
----------------------
The IGDA extends its sincerest thanks to all our Partners! Especially those who just joined us, or recently renewed their commitment to support the game development community:
- Columbus State Community College - Integrated Media & Technology Department
- UC San Diego Extension Digital Arts Center
- GameStreamer Inc.
- Maryland Film Office
Without their support the IGDA simply would not survive - let alone thrive.
Further details and a complete list of Partners are available online:
http://www.igda.org/partners
Contact Information
-------------------
Please contact us if you have questions, comments or input:
http://www.igda.org/contact.php
19 Mantua Road
Mount Royal, New Jersey
USA 08061
RSS Feeds for IGDA News and Chapter Updates
-------------------------------------------
The IGDA web site has RSS feeds for IGDA news (eg, org announcements, committee work, etc) and chapter updates (eg, upcoming meetings, event reports). Those using RSS readers can point to:
IGDA News: http://www.igda.org/igda_news_rss.php
IGDA Chapter Updates: http://www.igda.org/igda_chapters_rss.php
-------
- end -
-------
This message was sent by: IGDA, 19 Mantua Road, Mt Royal, NJ 08061
Powered by iContact: http://freetrial.icontact.com
Manage your subscription:
http://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofile.pl?r=11519757&l=11816&s=8S17&m=95358&c=429645
Last updated:
09/28/2009 - 1:27 PM
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