How do I become a game producer?

[wh1036]

I would like to be a video game producer someday, but I don't know what I should be doing now to work toward that goal. I have an AAS in IT and a BBA in management. I also interned for an indie developer where I did lots of QA and tech support. I've also taken a few classes in programming and game design, earned a few years management experience in retail, and am now working an entry-level IT job for the government.

Are there entry-level production jobs, or do producers all need years of game industry experience as a designer or programmer? I feel like I could start out in QA or tech support/customer service, but will climbing that ladder have a chance at leading me to being a producer? Do producers spend more time managing finances and deadlines/milestones, or managing the direction and development of the game? Are there any classes I should be taking or should I be designing my own projects right now? Sorry for the long post, I've been working toward my goal for years and have now hit a spot where I don't know what I should be working on.

[tsloper]

Read this: http://sloperama.com/advice/lesson42.htm

[wh1036]

Hi Tom. Thank you both for writing such a great guide and for referring me to it. Based on what I read it looks like I'm on the right track. I have good project management and technical skills, so I think I'll take some classes on psychology and technical writing just to finish off what you recommended. I'd love to get my MBA, but that is simply not financially possible for me atm. I guess the next step is finding myself an entry level job in the industry

[tsloper]

Originally Posted by wh1036

I guess the next step is finding myself an entry level job in the industry

And I've got several articles that might help you in that area.