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Austin Smith '13

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO, MISSION CONTROL GG

Industry – RECREATION, E-SPORTS AND SOFTWARE

EDUCATION – BSBA, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ECONOMICS & SERVICE LEADERSHIP, SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
 


 

Describe what you're working on and/or what you're most proud to have accomplished.
I grew up playing all sorts of games - sports, board games, video games. I'm not very good at them, but I loved to play anyways because they were how I spent time with others. For me, games were a medium to community. As an adult, I continued to play recreational sports but realized there was no equivalent experience for esports, the competitive playing of video games. So, my cofounders and I decided to build Mission Control, a community platform for recreational gaming. We have raised a few million in venture capital to build a rec league esports software for customers like the University of Kentucky, the City of Las Vegas, GameStop, Comcast, & Cinemark. I am most proud of building this company in St. Louis where my team and I can help create jobs and income for our community.

You know we have to ask it. Do you have a favorite SLUH memory or teacher?
After discovering an interest in entrepreneurship junior year, teacher Bill Brown and VP of Administration Joe Komos graciously guided my friends and me in launching the Ignatian Business Leaders club where we explored business creation and ethics. At SLUH, every single stakeholder is passionate about student growth.

Think back to senior year. Was this the job you dreamed of? If not, then what?
I remember considering the way one might be able to create the most good in the world. I was fascinated by people exploring solutions never before tried and my curiosity for entrepreneurship was born.

How are you acting as a Man for Others in your current role?
I am extremely passionate about community. Creating jobs and bringing business to our St. Louis community brings me fulfillment and joy. I like to think this serves the humans in the community I love.

Were you involved in any activities at SLUH that hinted at your path?
After understanding the impact of creating something new through the Ignatian Business Leaders club, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. SLUH gave me the confidence to know that was my direction.