EA SPORTS launches Innovation Lab at Florida University
tlloyd
2012-08-30
Governor Rick Scott and technology leaders from across Orlando gathered on Friday to open the new EA Sports Innovation Lab at the UCF Center for Emerging Media in Downtown Orlando.
Designed to create a priority pathway for FIEA graduates into the video game industry, the new Innovation Lab will allow EA SPORTS to create additional internship opportunities each year at the facility, where FIEA students will work side by side with industry-leading EA SPORTS game development professionals to create the latest products on the latest platforms, using the latest tools and technologies.
The inaugural intern class at the EA SPORTS Innovation Lab will begin in September for the first talented students to be part of this program. FIEA was established in 2005 as a result of a partnership between the university, EA SPORTS and the city of Orlando.
Nearly 250 students have graduated from FIEA since its creation and many of them have moved on to successful careers in the game industry, including careers at EA SPORTS’ studio in Orlando and other Electronic Arts labels and studios.
From the creation of the tax credit incentive in 2011 through spring 2013, EA will have created more than 150 high-skill, high-wage jobs in Orlando.
The city of Orlando has also long championed the development of the interactive entertainment industry, with the Creative Village poised to serve as the foundation for a thriving digital media cluster. FIEA is housed in facilities owned by the city of Orlando.
Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy also known as FIEA is part of the University of Central Florida, the academy offers an industry-based graduate gaming education in a world-class facility in downtown Orlando. Work on the latest game engines and software and be mentored by faculty with decades of game-making experience. In 16 months, earn a Master’s degree in Interactive Entertainment.
