Spring Programs Coming Soon!
COMING SOON
Next Level Starts Here.
Programs for Youth, Young Adult, & Career Changers.
518 Game Changers is a Capital Region–based workforce development initiative designed to expand access to high-wage careers in gaming, technology, and digital media.
Our hands-on, gamified learning approach lets students dive into 2D and 3D game design, programming, and interactive media, all while building essential tech industry skills such as IT fundamentals, internet safety, and personal branding.
COMING SOON:
CSTEP/STEP: Spring, 2026
Young Adult Cohort: Spring, 2026
Career Changer/Adult: Fall, 2026
The Need.
Youth in the Capital Region face persistent barriers to accessing high-paying STEM and technology careers. Many lack exposure, mentorship, and applied learning opportunities aligned with industry demand. At the same time:
Software development occupations are projected to grow significantly over the next decade.
Regional tech wages outpace median wages by nearly 50%.
Employers report ongoing talent shortages and reliance on outsourced workforce pipelines.
Despite this demand, many programs focus narrowly on technical instruction without addressing collaboration, confidence, communication, and community support - skills that determine long-term career success.
518 Game Changers was created to close this gap.
Our Solution.
Our flagship model is a 12-week, in-person Technical Game Design Accelerator serving cohorts of up to 10 students.
Students progress through three structured phases:
1. Foundations of Game Design & Digital Literacy: Tool onboarding, digital literacy, and team-
based ideation.
2. Applied Development & Collaboration: Coding logic, asset creation, level design, iterative testing, and agile teamwork.
3. Professional Exposure & Showcase: Completion of a portfolio-ready game or prototype, public presentation, and structured career pathway exploration.
Spring Programs Launching Soon
518 Game Changers relies on the generosity of our community, partners, and supporters to keep our programs free and accessible for students across the Capital Region. Through donations and collaborative partnerships, we are able to provide meaningful experiences, resources, and opportunities that empower the next generation of leaders and innovators.
