2007 GREAT WOMEN OF GAMING
Proven leader
Carole Carter
Owner
Electric Gizmos and Display Systems
The gaming industry had been a "man's world" long before Carole Carter decided to impose herself. As one of the first women to take the role of chief operating officer for a gaming company, Carter shattered the glass ceiling and opened a new realm of possibilities for other women.
"It is gratifying to be recognized for accomplishments," Carter says. "However, it is far more exciting and rewarding to see the number of intelligent and extraordinary women achieving unprecedented success in the gaming industry. I am honored to be a part of the industry metamorphosis."
The metamorphosis began when Carter became chief operating officer of United Gaming (now Alliance Gaming). From 1979 to 1991, she worked for Howard Hughes Estate Businesses and was hired into the executive training program. As executive vice president of information technologies, Carter was on the management team responsible for the divestiture of Hughes Gaming Properties, Hughes Helicopters and Hughes Aircraft.
Carter credits "a strong, deep fear of failure and an intense desire to make a difference" as her motivation through the years. She also says two of her family members left an impression early on. "Two of my extraordinary, eccentric and captivating Southern aunts [were my mentors]," Carter says. " [I learned] perseverance and battlefield tactics from my Aunt Gwen (a doctor specializing in infectious disease at the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta), and how to overcome obstacles, break down barriers, develop compassion and extend generosity from my Aunt Jane, a retired executive in the male-dominated railroad industry, who after retirement started a Feed the Homeless and Disenfranchised on the streets of Atlanta out of her garage and the backseat of her car."
Carter now owns her own company, Electric Gizmos and Display Systems (E-Gads!). She believes one of the keys to success in one's career is having foresight. She says the future leaders of the gaming industry need to "establish short- and long-term personal and professional destinations and develop a strategic and tactical map to achieve destinations."
"I must say that I am surprised that Carole Carter had not been selected for a Great Women of Gaming award earlier," said The Marketing Group CEO Dona Cassese, who nominated Carter. "After talking to contacts around the industry, everyone just assumed that she would be a winner."
As for the future of the industry she helped diversify, Carter is optimistic. "As a self-proclaimed elder spokesperson with 30-plus years in the industry, we have progressed light years from my entry in gaming," she says. "In gaming, as well as other industries, there is still a need for continuing diversity efforts."
Outside of work, Carter is active in the community as the past president of the Ronald McDonald House and a board member of the Shade Tree shelter. A cancer survivor, she is also active in raising money for women's cancer clinics and other non-profit organizations.
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