US: Gaming “significantly” more diverse than workforce

A recent report by the American Gaming Association (AGA) has highlighted a significant advancement in diversity within the gaming sector, demonstrating that it is more diverse than the overall U.S. workforce.

According to the AGA’s findings, 61% of employees in the gaming industry belong to racial minority groups. This contrasts starkly with the hospitality industry, where racial minorities comprise 52%, and the total U.S. workforce, at only 42%.

Breaking these figures down further, 23% of employees in the hospitality sector identify as Hispanic, while 19% are Black—a percentage that exceeds the national averages and aligns closely with the hospitality industry’s demographic. Notably, the representation of employees of Asian descent in the gaming industry stands at 14%, which is approximately double the representation seen across the nation.

The gaming sector clearly surpasses both the hospitality industry and the overall U.S. workforce in terms of diversity.

“Today’s consumers, policymakers, and investors are elevating their expectations for businesses, urging them to contribute meaningfully to society beyond mere profitability,” remarked Bill Miller, President and CEO of AGA. “This survey not only underscores the gaming industry’s leadership role in fostering diversity but also points to ongoing opportunities for growth and improvement.”

Significant Progress Over the Decade

The current diversity landscape among gaming operators marks a stark contrast to trends observed a decade ago. In 2011, the representation of non-white individuals among operators hovered around 20%; today, that figure has surged to an impressive 60%. Additionally, the representation of Black employees has risen from 12% a decade ago to 19% today, reflecting positive shifts towards a more inclusive workforce.

Moreover, gaming manufacturers demonstrate a higher level of diversity than the electronic manufacturing sector at large. In this area, 45% of employees identify as racial minorities, compared to just 38% within the broader electronic manufacturing industry.

For further insights and analysis, explore the complete article on iGB North America.