Push Forward: From Intern to Lead Developer with Lead Game Client Developer, David Sangros
At Push Gaming, we’re passionate about fostering growth, not just in the games we create but in the talented people behind them. For David Sangros, what started as an internship during his Computer Science studies quickly evolved into a full-time career that has seen him progress from Junior Game Developer to Lead Game Client Developer. In this edition of Push Forward, David shares his journey—from balancing university with work experience to leading game development projects—and offers valuable insights for those looking to grow in the industry.
When you first joined Push Gaming as a Junior Game Developer, what attracted you to the company, and how did you go about balancing your Computer Science degree with your new role?
I think what attracted me the most about Push Gaming was how linked my current skill set and experience was at the time of applying. Before returning to education I had been a croupier for Grosvenor Casinos for around 8 years, so the gaming & gambling industry was already familiar to me. Also, my first years of study focussed entirely on front end web development technologies. Overall, it seemed like a no-brainer in terms of career transition. As for balancing my time during education and Push Gaming, I actually changed the classification of my degree to a Computer Science degree with Work Experience. My university allowed me to find a work placement between my second and final year. I was lucky enough to join Push Gaming as an intern for 13 months before returning to finish my final year.
How did Push support your transition from studying to working full-time in game development? Were there specific resources, training, or mentorship that helped guide your journey?
I joined Push when they were relatively small compared to now. I was in a position where I could lean on some of the founders and keystones of the development team for valuable advice. Push has always provided me with a lot of tools and resources to carry out my own research, but in reality I gained the most from direct conversations with my peers and making mistakes, a lot of mistakes.
Have any of the skills you developed during your year at Push Gaming and final year of university helped you succeed in your role as a Lead Game Developer?
Time management for sure. Juggling a busy work-study schedule has taught me to plan much further ahead than I did before. Initially, I struggled separating studying and working with my own free time, which can be super stressful. Being organised and having that clear separation has helped me focus my time and become much more productive during the day.
How does Push Gaming's culture support employees in balancing career development with further education or skill-building?
I think there's still very much a 'learn by doing' attitude here at Push, which suits me! More often than not I have been moved out of my comfort zone to help broaden my knowledge about the company and products we create. In general, we are all encouraged to self-educate and take advantage of online resources which Push provides access to as part of our L&D, to improve any areas of our work we desire.
What advice would you give to someone at Push Gaming or elsewhere who is considering pausing their studies for hands-on experience before returning to complete their degree?
Go for it. I think what is important about work experience in general is the time spent working as part of a much larger machine. Much of my time at university I spent working as a solo developer on my own projects. My internship gave me an opportunity to improve my transferable skills such as communication and team work, all of which I still benefit from today.
Looking back at your journey from Junior Developer to Lead Game Developer, what are you most proud of? How does your story highlight the growth opportunities available at Push Gaming?
I think I am most proud of maintaining high levels of engagement across the various game projects I have worked on. Each new project always creates unique problems, and I am very grateful that Push has allowed me the time and opportunity to grow and work through these challenges to become a better developer.
David’s journey is a testament to his steadfast commitment to growth, as a person and as a professional. Development opportunities are always available at Push Gaming for those eager to learn, adapt, and push boundaries. David’s transition from intern to lead developer highlights the power of hands-on experience, mentorship, and a culture that encourages continuous growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, David’s story is an inspiring reminder that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.
Are you looking for a role that supports your development? Take a look at our current vacancies, you might just find the role for you!
