ProtoLaunch

Department of Computer Science and Mathematics

ProtoLaunch had its first guest speaker in October 2009. Ben Mattes from Ubisoft Montreal and Producer on Prince of Persia was at Algoma University to speak to highschool students and our very own MSc. students. Check out his blog entry about his experience.

Another benefit to studying games technology at Algoma University is the unique games project called ProtoLaunch. ProtoLaunch is a series of industry led workshops followed by an annual game development competition on the campus of Algoma University which targets youth in the community who are interested in a career in video game development..

ProtoLaunch provides the opportunity for Computer Games Technology students at Algoma University to network with and learn from numerous industry professionals. Games technology students have the opportunity to participate in ProtoLaunch activities as supporting instructors. This, along with the opportunity to build essential industry connections will provide students the opportunity to begin the process of finding employment with games studios.

ProtoLaunch provides a unique system to assist youth in developing work related skills in the video gaming industry. High school students in the Algoma district are invited to participate in a series of free video game workshops throughout the year, taught by renowned gaming professionals. The workshops lead up to a three week competition during the summer months where participants are asked to form teams and work together to create a project using the skills they have gained. Students who are selected to participate in the summer competition are also get paid for an exciting summer job experience. As well, individuals who participate in ProtoLaunch activities will be provided opportunities to earn scholarships for post secondary studies in video game development.

This unique video games project is run by the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) in partnership with Algoma University, Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology, Anishinabek Information Technology Centre (AITC), YMCA Employment and Community Services and the Children's Rehabilitation Centre - Algoma.

Canada has taken a leading role in the video game industry and is the third largest country in terms of game development after only the United States of America and Japan. Canada is also home to the world's largest video game studio in Ubisoft Montreal, and many Canadian youth enter this rapidly growing industry each year at one of the many successful development studios across the country. ProtoLaunch is the first project of its kind and gives local youth the unique opportunity to gain valuable skills while learning about a career in the video game sector.

To learn more about ProtoLaunch or express interest in participating in the program please contact SSMIC and ask to be placed on the ProtoLaunch email updates list: info@ssmic.com or call 705-942-7927.