EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology will host a TechTalk featuring EMU alumnus Zach Wigal, founder of Gamers Outreach, at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, in 124 Sill Hall and via Zoom.

The EMU TechTalk series offers students and faculty opportunities to network with experts and up-and-coming leaders in engineering, technology, and related fields. Each TechTalk provides opportunities to explore careers, internships, and research opportunities at the College. 

"We are excited to have Zach Wigal return to his alma mater to share his insights and experiences with our students," said Mohamad Qatu, dean of the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. "His journey from EMU student to a successful entrepreneur inspires aspiring engineers and technologists."

Since launching EMU TechTalk, students and faculty have heard from industry leaders, including John Bodary, president and owner of Woods Construction and Interiors, Mark Stainslav, vice president of security engineering and governance, risk and compliance from Full Story, and Kiana Wenzell, co-executive director from Design Core Detroit, to name a few.

During the Tech Talk, Wigal will share key lessons from his career journey and offer invaluable advice to current students. Attendees can expect an engaging discussion on topics ranging from entrepreneurship in the tech industry to how founders can identify opportunities to create lasting impact.

The event is open to EMU students, faculty, staff, and community members interested in technology, gaming, and entrepreneurship. Following his presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to interact with Wigal during a Q&A session. This event is also LBC credit-approved. 

To register for this TechTalk, visit the registration page or website for more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology's TechTalk series.

About Zach Wigal
Zach Wigal graduated from EMU in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in business administration, majoring in marketing. He is a 5x founder, most known for creating Gamers Outreach, a charity that provides activities to children in hospitals through the power of video games and the gaming community.

Gamers Outreach programs enable more than 5 million gaming experiences for hospitalized families across 400+ healthcare facilities each year. The organization also hosts one of the largest LAN parties in North America - Gamers for Giving - which brings together gamers and esports enthusiasts to support patients receiving care.

Wigal has been recognized as a Top 10 CNN Hero (2019) and named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list (2017) for his work in the games-for-health space. 

Wigal recently launched Portal Health, an investor-backed software venture that powers entertainment experiences across healthcare facilities.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.