Finding your superpower: Building a career with art, code, and community

Tech careers aren't solo journeys—Melissa Austin shares how mentorship and a passion for helping others makes the difference.

Melissa Austin’s path to leadership in the gaming industry is fueled by mentorship, representation, and a deep desire to lift others up. As a first-generation, mixed-race woman, she carved out space in a field where few looked like her—eventually leading technical teams at Niantic. Her story is one of advocacy, allyship, and the power of showing up with honesty and heart, especially for those still finding their voice.

“​I’ve found that my superpower is helping other people figure out their superpowers.”

Melissa Austin’s journey in the gaming industry is a testament to resilience and dedication. As a first-generation, mixed-race woman, she navigated a field with scarce representation. Early in her career, a technical artist mentor encouraged her to exceed expectations, igniting her passion for assisting others, especially artists lacking technical expertise.​

Read more: How mentorship helped me overcome anxiety and thrive in my technology career

Facing limited female representation, Melissa sought allies who supported her growth and advocated for inclusivity. Her determination led to leadership roles, including Senior Manager for the Technical Art Team at Niantic’s Pokémon GO. In this position, she emphasizes advocating for her team’s needs, finding it a rewarding aspect of leadership.​

Melissa’s commitment to mentorship extends beyond her team. At a Girls Who Code event, she shared personal experiences, creating a profound impact on attendees. This act underscored her belief in authentic storytelling to inspire and guide the next generation of developers.​

Aspiring to foster diversity, Melissa actively works to create an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued. Her efforts aim to shape the industry’s evolution, ensuring it becomes more inclusive and reflective of its diverse audience.

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