June 8, 2022
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Local kids out of school for the summer can now take free classes while also playing their favorite video games.
It’s all part of the newest push to develop the next generation of tech-execs, from right here in Southern Nevada.
Gaming can be a very successful and lucrative field in adulthood, and those behind the free summer program say this can be the first step towards a future career in the industry.
They’re also pointing out that this won’t cost moms or dads out there a dime!
“There are huge companies that are looking for the next workforce, whether it’s Microsoft or Boeing. They are already looking for kids that are proficient in tech aspects,” explained Evan Savar with Stride Esports.
If you have an elementary to high school-aged child in your home, chances are you’ve heard of Fortnite, Minecraft or Rocket League. These are very popular video games for today’s kids, and tech company Stride Esports is now using those games to create lesson plans.
The goal here is to encourage interest in a future career in technology in a fun way.
Through the summer program, Southern Nevadan kids will be able to learn how to create video games and code directly from those currently working in the tech industry.
“It’s not only popular right now, but as we start looking into the future of what esports are becoming, kids are already getting scholarships for esports,” said Savar.
The virtual summer classes are free and can be taken from home for kids ages 8 to 18.
Stride is also teaming up with the local Boys & Girls Clubs to offer in-person access to the free web-based Esports Summer Camp. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas will be one of seven across the U.S. that will serve as an in-person hub for kids to log into camp.
Beginning in June, the Stride’s Esports Summer Camp will invite kids to:
- Build their gaming and coding skills, as well as teamwork and critical thinking
- Play in some of their favorite games, including Minecraft and Rocket League
- Work with professional esports coaches
- All in a safe, supervised online environment
Registration for Stride’s Esports Summer Camp is now open, and the first session starts June 13. To sign up, visit Stride | Esports Summer Classes.
by Kyndell Kim
