Gearbox establishes scholars program at SMU

Gearbox Software, the Brothers in Arms developer based in Texas, has pledged nearly USD 50,000 in scholarships and support to help establish the Fellows Scholars program at The Guildhall at Southern Methodist University.

Besides financial support for art creation, level design and software programming graduate students, Gearbox will also provide professional mentors for the students during their 17 months of study at SMU.

"The only thing growing faster than our industry is the critical need for new and creative talent," said Randy Pitchford, CEO and president of Gearbox.

"I think it is clear that the videogame industry has the vast financial support and consumer demand it needs to continue its global growth. But what I and many industry leaders are very worried about is hiring and retaining world class talent. That's why programs like The Guildhall at SMU need our support."

Since SMU began its program in 2004, 15 SMU graduates have joined Gearbox, with several of them having a key role in the company's upcoming Borderland game cheduled for release in late 2008.

"It doesn't really surprise me that Randy was the first industry leader to support our Fellows Scholars program," said Dr. Peter Raad, founder and executive director of The Guildhall at SMU.

"Randy was instrumental in the formation of our program and has been a huge supporter. He believes, as we do, that we need to find ways to ensure financial barriers do not stand in the way for the very best students to attend our program and become contributing professionals and future leaders in the dynamic videogames industry."

In addition to its financial gift, Gearbox donated an audio lab to the program.

The Guildhall at Southern Methodist University has a 95 per cent placement rate with more than 180 graduates working at 70 of the leading videogame studios around the world. The program offers both a Master's degree and a graduate Professional Certificate of Interactive Technology in Digital Game Development, with specialisations in art creation, level design and software development.