Shondra DeLoach-Perea is breaking through barriers, carving a path for future female leaders, and reshaping the industry’s dynamics. As the Vice President of Field Services, Call Centers, and Technology Operations at International Game Technology (IGT), DeLoach-Perea has spent over 25 years forging a successful career in the global gaming world. Her accomplishments were recently recognized when she was named one of the recipients of the Global Gaming Women’s (GGW) 2024 “Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award”.

Shondra DeLoach-Perea: A Leading Force in Gaming Industry Honored with the 2024 “Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award”

This prestigious award is given annually to women who embody GGW’s mission of advancing female leadership within the gaming industry. DeLoach-Perea’s influence within IGT and her work with various internal programs aimed at supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives further underline her commitment to empowering women.

A Pioneering Career in Gaming Technology

DeLoach-Perea’s career is nothing short of remarkable, spanning over two decades and touching various facets of the gaming industry, from technology operations to compliance and manufacturing. Since joining IGT in 2008, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and innovation, overseeing large-scale operations across multiple continents and leading a global team. Her role at IGT involves managing technology and service operations in the field, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of gaming technology on a global scale.

Her vast experience in both technology and operational compliance makes her a unique leader, blending technical expertise with operational insight, critical for steering a company like IGT in a fast-evolving industry.

Shondra’s Impact on Diversity and Inclusion

Beyond her executive responsibilities, Shondra DeLoach-Perea is also recognized for her commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusivity within the gaming industry. She has taken an active role in IGT’s Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council and the Women’s Inclusion Network, programs designed to foster an inclusive culture that promotes equal opportunities for all employees.

Her work within these programs showcases her dedication to creating a more equitable workplace. As a mentor, she continues to support the development of emerging female leaders, offering guidance, knowledge, and opportunities for growth. These efforts have not only enriched the culture at IGT but have also made a lasting impact on the broader gaming industry.

Recognition from Industry Leaders

The award also comes with resounding praise from IGT CEO Vince Sadusky, who highlighted DeLoach-Perea’s exemplary contributions, stating: “Shondra’s recognition by Global Gaming Women is a testament to her extraordinary leadership and her commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion both at IGT and within the wider gaming industry.”

He went on to note that her mentorship and leadership have played a pivotal role in IGT’s efforts to uplift women in gaming and technology, ensuring that the next generation of female leaders are better prepared to face the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

The Significance of the Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award

The Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award, established by Global Gaming Women, is more than just a recognition of professional success. It is awarded to women who embody the spirit of mentorship, leadership, and advocacy for diversity. This award honors women who have not only achieved excellence in their careers but have also made concerted efforts to support and uplift other women in the gaming industry.

According to Lauren Bates, President of GGW, the award reflects the core mission of the organization: to “create a culture of inclusiveness and diversity that empowers women to succeed.” Bates emphasized how DeLoach-Perea’s career and leadership have made her a shining example of what the award stands for, adding that her contributions will be celebrated at the annual ‘Kick Up Your Heels’ event, a cornerstone of the GGW calendar.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Leadership

One of DeLoach-Perea’s most notable traits is her commitment to mentorship. Throughout her career, she has actively worked to help other women in the gaming industry grow and develop into leaders. Whether through one-on-one mentorship or her involvement in large-scale initiatives, DeLoach-Perea continues to inspire and guide the next generation of gaming professionals.

Mentorship is a critical component of her leadership style, and she has used her platform to create opportunities for women across various levels of the gaming and technology sectors. This nurturing of talent is precisely why she is a deserving recipient of the Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award, reflecting the core values of supporting and empowering others.

The Future of Women in Gaming

The gaming industry is evolving, and as it does, the role of women within it is becoming more prominent. Shondra DeLoach-Perea is part of a growing movement to bring more women into leadership positions within the sector. Her work at IGT and her involvement in the Global Gaming Women’s initiatives are not only helping to open doors for women but are also changing the way the gaming industry views gender diversity.

Her ongoing efforts to ensure that gaming is an industry where women can thrive and lead with confidence are setting the stage for a brighter, more inclusive future. The recognition she has received is a testament to her leadership and advocacy, and it serves as an inspiration for both current and future generations of women in gaming.

Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Honor

Shondra DeLoach-Perea’s recognition with the Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award is a reflection of her extensive contributions to the gaming industry and her tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Her leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to advancing the role of women in gaming have made her a standout figure in a competitive and ever-evolving industry.

FAQs About Shondra DeLoach-Perea and the 2024 “Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award”

1. Who is Shondra DeLoach-Perea?

Shondra DeLoach-Perea is the Vice President of Field Services, Call Centers, and Technology Operations at International Game Technology (IGT). She has over 25 years of experience in the gaming industry, spanning roles in technology, compliance, operations, and manufacturing.

2. What is the “Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award”?

The “Patty Becker Pay it Forward Award” is an annual recognition by Global Gaming Women (GGW) that honors women in the gaming industry who have contributed significantly to GGW’s initiatives and supported the development of other women within their organizations and communities.

3. Why was Shondra DeLoach-Perea selected for the 2024 Patty Becker Award?

Shondra DeLoach-Perea was selected for her exemplary leadership at IGT, her commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and her active mentorship of women in the gaming industry. Her efforts in supporting GGW’s vision of inclusiveness were key factors in her recognition.

4. What roles does Shondra DeLoach-Perea hold at IGT?

At IGT, Shondra DeLoach-Perea oversees field services, call centers, and technology operations globally. She manages teams across multiple continents, ensuring efficient technology and service operations within the company.

5. What is Global Gaming Women (GGW)?

Global Gaming Women (GGW) is an organization that focuses on advancing women in the gaming industry. It provides mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities for women to thrive and succeed in the field.

6. How has Shondra DeLoach-Perea contributed to diversity and inclusion at IGT?

Shondra DeLoach-Perea is involved in several diversity-focused initiatives at IGT, including serving on the Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council and the Women’s Inclusion Network. Her work in these areas promotes an inclusive work culture and supports the career growth of women.

7. What is the significance of the “Kick Up Your Heels” event?

The “Kick Up Your Heels” event is an annual celebration hosted by GGW where the contributions of women leaders in the gaming industry, including award recipients like Shondra DeLoach-Perea, are recognized and celebrated.

8. How does Shondra DeLoach-Perea support women in the gaming industry?

Shondra DeLoach-Perea is an advocate for women’s empowerment and provides mentorship through IGT’s diversity programs. She actively supports and uplifts women, helping them develop leadership skills and advance their careers in the gaming industry.

9. What are some of Shondra DeLoach-Perea’s achievements at IGT?

During her tenure at IGT, Shondra DeLoach-Perea has overseen global technology and operational compliance, contributed to the company’s leadership in gaming technology, and played a vital role in fostering a culture of inclusivity through her involvement in DEI programs.