Diving into Alberta's transformative digital ecosystem, from the growth of immersive technologies and gaming industries to nurturing the next wave of tech talent.
In this episode of Launchcast, our Head of Marketing (now CMO), Andre Buarque, talks to Digital Alberta Executive Director Alecia Peters and Program Manager Paisley Churchill about the booming interactive and digital technology industry in Alberta. If you are into gaming, AR/VR, animation, digital twinning, etc., do not miss this episode!
Introduction
Alberta is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse in the realm of digital technology.
The province is home to an ever-evolving ecosystem of immersive technologies, video games, and an enthusiastic pool of tech talent, solidifying its position as a future-focused digital hub.
Digital Alberta: Fostering a Technologically Advanced Environment
At the heart of this technological revolution is Digital Alberta, the province's eminent digital media association.
Alecia beautifully encapsulates their mission: "Our goal is to create the most vibrant, inclusive, diverse digital media ecosystem in the province."
The organization plays a pivotal role in fostering connections, supporting tech companies, and advocating for a conducive policy environment that facilitates growth and innovation.
Embracing the future with immersive technologies
One of the innovative technologies the province is enthusiastically embracing is Virtual Reality (VR).
As André pointed out in his hypothetical scenario about starting a VR-focused company for healthcare, the potential applications for VR extend far beyond gaming or entertainment.
From healthcare to education, and even industrial training, VR is unlocking new possibilities, revolutionizing traditional sectors, and demonstrating the true depth of Alberta's digital capabilities.
Alberta's gaming scene: On the rise
The podcast also underscored the growth and success of Alberta's gaming industry. It highlighted celebrated gaming titles like Nightingale and Naughty Dog's popular games Uncharted and The Last of Us.
André expressed his enthusiasm for The Last of Us, originally a video game series now adapted into a HBO series, indicating the gaming industry's expansive cultural influence.
His vivid description: "I saw Calgary everywhere... It was an hour and 20 minutes episode. It's almost a movie... Flawless" attests to the industry's success.
Cultivating Alberta's next generation of tech talent
The development of tech talents is at the heart of Digital Alberta's mission.
Alecia elaborated, "We're committed to doing what it takes to build that next gen of talent needed to fuel the sector."
She further emphasized their intent to collaborate with educational institutions and organizations, focusing on STEAM talent development and showcasing the vast array of career paths in the digital sector.
Alberta's tech future: What lies ahead?
Alberta's digital landscape is growing in leaps and bounds, fueled by its advancements in VR, the rise of its gaming industry, and the nurturing of future tech talents.
The podcast successfully painted an encouraging picture of Alberta's tech future, inspiring tech enthusiasts and budding entrepreneurs to participate and contribute to this vibrant and diverse digital ecosystem.
Alberta's ongoing digital transformation is a testament to its resilience and future-readiness.
Paisley's words perfectly sum up this sentiment: "We want to be the connectors and the supporters of all the companies in all sectors that are working with these amazing, forward-looking technologies...we want to work with those companies, ensure that they have the right tools in place, they have the right connections, the right policy environment, and just everything that they need to succeed."
With the proactive support from organizations like Digital Alberta, combined with governmental measures, Alberta is well on its way to becoming a leading tech powerhouse. The province's vibrant, inclusive, and diverse digital ecosystem is poised to continue flourishing, promising a bright future for all those who dare to dream and innovate.
