Iain coordinates and delivers our QA for Gaming program, bringing the world of game testing to life for participants through hands-on, industry-informed learning. From the first day in the training room, Iain works alongside students as they explore the skills and processes used by professional quality assurance testers. His sessions give participants the chance to test real games, analyse gameplay, and provide structured feedback, building their confidence, communication, and technical abilities in a collaborative environment.

Alongside his role in QA for Gaming, Iain leads the new Power Up Pathways (PUP) program, designed to connect young people with creative, future-focused industries. Based in Adelaide, PUP gives participants opportunities to work on live digital media and game-related projects, developing teamwork, problem-solving, and project skills in an industry-driven environment. With almost a decade of experience in quality assurance for games, and a strong background in creative industries, Iain draws on this blend of expertise to create learning spaces where participants can develop skills that are both practical and recognised, including micro-credentials that carry
SACE accreditation.

With nearly ten years in the video game industry as a Quality Assurance professional, Neil has hands on QA experience with a strong focus on training. He excels at breaking down complex testing concepts, supporting new and emerging testers, and fostering confidence, independence, and professional skills within learning and team environments.

Shayden joined the QA for Gaming program in October 2024 as an enthusiastic and experienced gamer looking to explore future employment opportunities within the gaming industry. For Shayden, the program represented more than just a potential career pathway, it was an opportunity to build independence, develop responsibility, and work towards his long- term goal of securing employment, renting his own home, and contributing positively to his community.

Prior to joining QA for Gaming, Shayden began his journey with Youth Options in May 2023, where he spent over a year developing practical life skills, confidence, resilience, and career-readiness through a range of programs. Throughout this time, he strengthened his cooking skills, worked on his fitness and health, explored future career pathways, and built the confidence to engage with new people and work collaboratively with other young people.

Today, Shayden continues to build on these foundations as he develops the skills, confidence, and experience needed to achieve his personal and employment goals.

Keegan joined the QA for Gaming program in October 2024 as an experienced gamer eager to explore future employment opportunities within the gaming industry. The program provided an exciting opportunity to investigate a career pathway that aligned with his interests while continuing to build valuable workplace and personal development skills.

Before joining QA for Gaming, Keegan began his journey with Youth Options in May 2024, where he spent several months developing practical life skills and increasing his confidence through participation in cooking programs. During this time, he strengthened his independence and developed skills that support everyday living.

Keegan is also currently working towards obtaining his driver’s licence, an important goal that will further increase his independence and expand access to a wider range of employment opportunities. Through his continued involvement with Youth Options, he is building the confidence, skills, and experience needed to achieve his future personal and
career goals.

Jaxon began his journey with Youth Options in August 2022 with a goal of increasing his independence and preparing for future employment through the development of his communication, employability, and life skills. Alongside completing a Bachelor of Psychology, Jaxon has actively engaged in a range of programs designed to build confidence, resilience, and workplace readiness.

Throughout his time with Youth Options, Jaxon has strengthened his communication and social skills through the Dungeons and Dragons program, developed adaptability and a growth mindset through the Resilience Program, and gained practical hospitality and customer service skills through the Barista Skills Program. He has also worked towards greater independence through the Drive Me Program, building the skills and confidence needed to work towards obtaining his driver’s licence.

Through these experiences, Jaxon has continued to grow in confidence, resilience, and capability, developing a strong foundation of skills that will support his future career aspirations and ongoing personal development.