2007 GREAT WOMEN OF GAMING
Proven leader
Brenda Boudreaux
Vice President of Product Management
International Game Technology
Brenda Boudreaux's 24 years of gaming experience have seen her take on many challenges. From her start with New Jersey's Casino Control Commission to her current role as vice president of product management at IGT, Boudreaux has seen the industry operate from the viewpoint of a regulator, operator and game manufacturer. She served in the inspections, financial and enterprise licensing departments of the Casino Control Commission before moving on as the manager of casino accounting at Hollywood Casino, Aurora, Ill.
Her first stint with IGT was as a progressive systems representative for the Mississippi jurisdiction. Boudreaux then worked as slot manager at Station Casinos in Kansas City, director of slot operations at Station Casinos St. Charles, vice president of slot operations at Palace Station, and corporate director of Harrah's Entertainment. When Boudreaux returned to IGT, she was director of MegaJackpots before becoming the director of southwest sales and MegaJackpots and finally vice president of product management, where she ensures that IGT develops the right game products at the right price and at the right time.
"I believe the reason Brenda has had so many opportunities for career advancement comes down to her winning personality and willingness to get the job done, no matter how daunting the task," says Jean Venneman, IGT senior vice president of product development. "Brenda has shown that she embraces change and is always looking for best-practice solutions."
Boudreaux says her successful rise through the ranks has been inspired by several members of her family. "My family growing up has been the biggest influence by providing me with the inspiration to dream and never give up," she says. "My grandmother taught me to be independent, competitive and tenacious. My sister, who during her fight with a terminal illness taught me perseverance, bravery and to appreciate every day and to live life to the fullest. My parents and brother continue to provide me with the support to believe that anything is possible through hard work and a little humor. I believe all of these life lessons and attributes have helped shape my personality and my success."
Asked to give advice to aspiring professionals looking to take on a leadership role in the gaming industry, Boudreaux offered that success' secrets are there for the taking if one knows where to look. "Reach out to other colleagues and friends to understand what has helped them to be successful and to embrace each new challenge with optimism and excitement," she says. "It is turning those challenges into successes that will provide a path of additional opportunities. Remember that one person does not make a team; it is those leaders who provide support, direction and who take the time to be involved, who will flourish along with their team."
Boudreaux's dedication and devotion doesn't end at close of business. She is a member of the Association of International Product Marketing and Product Management and volunteers her time to the Nevada Women's Fund. And while at Harrah's, she was on the Harrah's Entertainment HERO committee for the company's corporate offices.
"The gaming industry has provided an exciting amount of opportunities and growth for me and others over the years," Boudreaux says. "I have been very fortunate to work with some of the best individuals in the industry and appreciate the relationships that have been formed. There is a lot of support and true friendships that have continued to grow over the years, and I truly cherish each and every one of them."
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