Spencer Congdon (BSc Computer Science ‘08) reflects fondly on his time at the university. “I’ve always been a pretty shy person, so the size of Algoma U suited me quite well,” he shares. The small class sizes allowed Spencer to connect more personally with his professors and classmates, which, he believes, significantly enhanced his learning experience.
During his studies, Spencer found exciting opportunities within the Computer Science program, such as competing in programming competitions and attending development conferences. These experiences culminated in his participation in Dare to be Digital, a prestigious video game development competition. “That experience solidified my future,” Spencer recalls, setting him on the path to a fulfilling career in the gaming industry.
After completing his undergraduate degree, Spencer decided to continue his studies by enrolling in the Master’s of Computer Game Technology program through University of Abertay in Dundee, Scotland. At the time, Abertay was offering this program at Algoma U, so Spencer was able to complete his studies from Sault Ste. Marie. He enjoyed the camaraderie and shared passion he found among his fellow students. “When you get to that point in your education, you’re alongside people who share your passions. I was lucky to have a really positive group to learn with,” he explains. Having the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in his community was a dream come true for him and is something he still reflects on often.
Now working at HB Studios, Spencer’s role has evolved significantly over the years. Starting with scripting tasks on his first project, outsourcing work for The Sims 3, he has since worked on a wide range of high-profile games, including Madden, NBA Live, WWE, and PGA. “It’s been rewarding to dive deep into sports that were new to me and explore new technologies as they emerged in the gaming scene,” he says about working on video games for the sports of cricket and rugby.
Spencer’s work has shifted from narrowly focused scripting tasks to larger feature development, including planning new systems and critiquing existing technology. Lately, he’s spent time on camera systems and tool creation to help designers better immerse players in the action. “It’s rewarding both to craft a specific tool for someone on the team and then see the long-term results when gamers get their hands on the finished product!”
Looking back on his time at Algoma U, Spencer also expresses pride in the university’s efforts to uplift its Anishinaabe studies program. “I think one thing I never entirely appreciated while attending Algoma U was the push that was being made to uplift the Anishinaabe studies program. The history of the campus as a residential school is obvious, and it makes the role the university has adopted all the more poignant.” Whether visiting the campus or catching up online, Spencer remains proud to be associated with a University that values and continues to support the Indigenous community.
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