TIGA, the trade association representing the video games industry, is pleased to welcome Dr Jacob Habgood to the role of TIGA’s Educational Advisor. Dr Jacob Habgood was recently appointed as Director of Education Partnerships for Sumo Digital, having previously been a Reader in Game Development at Sheffield Hallam University. Jacob also brings industry development experience to the role as a technical lead for Gremlin and Sumo Digital in the past.
Dr Jacob Habgood is set to replace Dr Mark Eyles, who has worked closely with TIGA on educational matters and ideas over the past 10 years.
Dr Jacob Habgood said:
“I’m thrilled to be able to support the important work TIGA does championing world-leading games education in the UK. Sumo has employed many talented graduates from TIGA accredited games courses, and it is gratifying to be in a role that recognises the hard work and dedication of teaching teams who are nurturing the next generation of gaming talent.
“Mark has done a fantastic job of shaping the direction of TIGA accreditation, and I look-forward to continuing the great work he has started.”
Dr Richard Wilson OBE, CEO of TIGA, said:
“I am delighted to welcome Dr Jacob Habgood to the role of TIGA Education Adviser. Under his leadership, Sheffield Hallam University twice won the ‘Best Educational Institution’ prize at the TIGA Games Industry Awards. I am looking forward to working with Dr Jacob Habgood on fresh and innovative ideas for the video games industry, particularly with respect to skills, training and education.”
“Dr Mark Eyles has had an impressive career. He has had experience of both the games industry and academia, having served as Head of Design at Rebellion Studios and Principal Lecturer at Portsmouth University. Mark played a leading role in developing TIGA’s University Accreditation System and STAR Employer awards. I would like to thank Mark for his commitment, enthusiasm and professionalism.”
Dr Mark Eyles, said:
“Working on TIGA projects, and supporting Richard, Suzi and the team, has been incredibly rewarding. In particular working on the TIGA Accreditation and TIGA STAR projects has enabled me to give something back to the industry.
“I am happy to be handing over the Educational Advisor reins to Dr Jacob Habgood, who has been on the TIGA accreditation team for many years and brings some refreshing new ideas.”