Albany Tech begins Esports competition through NJCAA

Staff Reports

The launch follows a ribbon-cutting held earlier this year in June, when Albany Technical College opened its dedicated esports space in the Center for Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT), Room 226. With the facility open and the inaugural team in place, ATC Titans esports now enters its first competitive season under the theme, “Compete. Connect. Level Up.”

Esports is organized, competitive video gaming in which individuals and teams compete in structured matches and tournaments. At Albany Technical College, the program gives students another way to become involved on campus while building communication, strategy, decision-making, collaboration, technology, and leadership skills.

ATC Titans esports participates in NJCAA Esports (NJCAAE), the competitive organization serving two-year college esports programs. Eligible students can compete in official collegiate matches while representing Albany Technical College as ATC Titans.

“This is a significant moment for Albany Technical College because our students are moving from the development of an esports program into actual collegiate competition,” said Dr. Emmett L. Griswold, President of Albany Technical College. “The inaugural ATC Titans team creates another place for students to belong, compete, lead, and represent this college. It also connects student engagement with technology, communication, teamwork, and the kinds of skills that matter in today’s workplace.”

“We have worked toward this point from the opening of the esports space to building the structure needed for a competitive team,” said Kenneth Williams, Director of Athletics and Student Life. “Now our students have the opportunity to put on the Titan name and compete. We want this program to give students a strong team experience, build campus connection, and create room for ATC esports to grow with student interest.”

The program is open to students interested in competitive gaming, technology and digital media, broadcasting and event support, marketing and content creation, leadership, and communication. Students may pursue a degree, diploma, or technical certificate while participating, provided they meet college and competition eligibility requirements.

Learn more about ATC Titans esports at www.albanytech.edu/esports.