Famed Video Game Developer to Connect with T-Birds

Published: April 01, 2014 | Read Time: 2 minutes

In the world of video games, computer designed graphics blur the lines between reality and fantasy. But it is in the world of video games that career opportunities are flowing for creative entrepreneurs and for Southern Utah University students can have the fantasy realm become their reality when Jon Dean, former vice president of Electronic Arts, visits campus for TechUp Southern Utah.

Anyone who is interested in creating their own business is invited to come to TechUp on Friday, April 4 at noon in the Starlight Room located within the Sharwan Smith Student Center, pizza and beverages will be served.

Currently Dean is the CEO for Xacfaq, a startup game developer and his topic will be “Is Gaming Design the New Hollywood?” The forum will cover the idea that the gaming industry is slowly surpassing the impact Hollywood movies has on the public.

Dean is renowned in the gaming industry, most notably for his creation of Nintendo’s Star Fox in 1993.

Along with listening to this engaging speaker, students, faculty, community members, and anyone else interested in technology can connect with others in the community with similar interests on technology and the business opportunities within it.

TechUp is a forum sponsored by the SUU Business Resource Center that began two years ago to foster relationships between those interested in the creative field, relationships that have already led to impressive start up companies.

“These forums are where the campus and Cedar City’s entrepreneurs come together to spark ideas for such things as new smart phone apps, computer games, software products, and new businesses,” states Brent Drew, TechUp director. “The creative energy we have right here in Cedar City is phenomenal.”

The group currently boasts 250 members ranging from engineers, graphic designers, marketers, artists, programmers, actors and web designers.

“This is a potential gold mine for students to not only learn from this creative process, but to be inspired to launch their own ideas and to network with like-minded innovators who have the skills to help them,” says Craig Isom, executive director of the SUU Business Resource Center. “Don’t be surprised if this is where we find the next Steve Jobs or Bill Gates.”

Typically TechUp forums are held at noon on the second Friday of the month in the basement of the Utah Summer Games building, 136 West Center Street, Cedar City. The meeting on April 4 will be unique and will meet on campus. To receive information on future meetings, visit www.sutc.groupsite.com. 

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