NextGen Gaming

Transatlantic STEM Talent Development through Game Development

Together with partners from Germany and the United States, NextGen Gaming is building a structured transatlantic platform for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) talent development using game development as a practical and motivating entry point. The program connects students, universities, and industry partners, creating sustainable exchange formats between both countries.

Game Development as a STEM Gateway

Both Germany and the United States face a growing demand for qualified STEM professionals. While the underlying challenges are similar, education systems, industry structures, and talent pipelines differ significantly on each side of the Atlantic. Digital technologies and interactive media are reshaping how technical skills are learned, applied, and transferred into the labor market.

Game development combines computer science, mathematics, engineering, and creative problem-solving. It therefore offers an ideal framework to introduce young talent to STEM disciplines, foster interdisciplinary skills, and connect academic education with real-world industry practice. NextGen Gaming leverages this potential to strengthen transatlantic cooperation in education and workforce development.

Organizational Framework

The project is funded through the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany using resources from the European Recovery Program (ERP) on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE).

The program runs for 18 months, with each year focusing on specific priorities to deepen professional exchange and enable targeted implementation and follow-up activities.

Program Modules

• STEM Game Lab – Workshop Series
  Virtual workshops introducing students and early-career talent to STEM concepts through game development, supported by experts from academia and industry.

• Transatlantic Faculty Meet & Greet
  A virtual exchange format for professors, program directors, and academic stakeholders to share best practices and explore cooperation opportunities.

• Delegation Trips and Study Tours
  In-person exchange formats in Germany and the United States, including visits to universities, studios, research institutions, and industry partners.

• Hackathon / Game Jam
  A collaborative development format bringing together students from both countries to work on game-based STEM applications under professional mentoring.

• Quarterly Jour Fixe
  A recurring virtual exchange to ensure continuity, coordination, and long-term network building.

Target Groups

• Students and early-career talent in STEM fields
• Universities and educational institutions
• Game development studios and technology companies
• Industry associations and research institutions

Program Outlook

Year 1: Introduction to game development as a STEM pathway, virtual workshops, academic exchange, and initial delegation activities focusing on education models and talent development.

Year 2: Deepening transatlantic cooperation through study tours, collaborative formats such as hackathons, and the consolidation of networks between education and industry.

Join the Network

Are you working at the intersection of education, technology, and game development? Become part of the NextGen Gaming network and contribute your expertise to the transatlantic dialogue on STEM talent development.