Game to Career Fair connects neurodivergent gamers with opportunities

UC 1819 Innovation Hub showcases talent inside Esports Lab

The 1819 Innovation Hub was buzzing with energy recently as it hosted the second annual Game to Career Fair, according to Spectrum News Ohio. The event took place in the Esports Innovation Lab, showcasing the talents of neurodivergent gamers and connecting those skills to meaningful, real-world opportunities.

Jackie Reau, CEO Gameday Communications walks by as Debbie Smith of Easterseals Redwood chats with an attendee. Photo/Easterseals

In partnership with Easterseals Redwood and Cincinnati Fear, the event brought together high school and college-aged gamers with employers.

The fair flipped the traditional career event model on its head. Instead of resumes leading the conversation, controllers did.

Students with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s, and other cognitive differences showcased their skills through live gameplay, walking employers through strategy, decision-making, and teamwork in real time. As employers rotated through gaming stations, it was the students who led, explaining how in-game problem-solving, adaptability and focus translate directly into careers in fields like cybersecurity, IT services, finance and advanced manufacturing.

It’s about finding environments where your strengths are obvious, valued, and supported.

Debbie Smith, Easterseals Redwood

Leveling up their future

Attendees and sponsors connect during the event. Photo/Brennen Rottmueller

The result of a more natural, strengths-based approach to hiring is that neurodivergent talent can shine.

“It’s about finding environments where your strengths are obvious, valued, and supported,” said Debbie Smith, senior adviser for strategic innovations for Easterseals Redwood. “When neurodivergent individuals turn their interests into careers, their attention to detail and deep concentration become invaluable, especially in fields like cybersecurity and data analysis.”

Controller to career

Two students focus on their future possibilities using virtual reality and AI. Photo/Easterseals

Beyond gameplay, attendees gained access to professional development tools, including headshots, video resume workshops and virtual reality career exploration experiences, like stepping into the virtual interactive world of a welder or exploring different technical career paths.

Employer partners such as Fifth Third Bank, Emerge IT, Altafiber and AMIP participated in the event, reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusive hiring and workforce development.

Game on

Fifth Third recruiters struggle to keep pace with these gaming pros. Photo/Easterseals

Justin Banks and Christine Mason, Easterseals Redwood staff, speak with students from McAuley High School along with their advisor, Beth Merk. Photo/Brennen Rottmueller

For the 1819 Innovation Hub, the event continues to demonstrate how esports can serve as a career pipeline beyond entertainment or competition for gamers.

“We’re excited to host this event for a second year,” said Patty Moser, Director of Events, Experience, Esports & Engagement at 1819. “Esports develops rapid decision-making, systems thinking, teamwork, and resilience, skills that are critical in today’s tech-driven economy. This event helps students see a direct pathway from game to career.”

By the end of the evening, one message was clear: when employers shift how they evaluate talent, and when students are empowered to lead with their strengths, entirely new career pathways open up.

And sometimes, it all starts with a game.

Featured image at top: Miguel Parada, a staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, observes the fast-paced decision-making skills of students. Photo/Easterseals

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Game to Career Fair connects neurodivergent gamers with opportunities