Page 9 - Mississippi/Louisiana Gaming News - Winter, 2025

5 Minutes With... Randy Peterson
What, where, when was your first job in the gaming industry?
Slot attendant (slot changer), Grand Casino, Hinckley, Minnesota, May 1992.
What do you like best about your current job?
I think the coolest part of my job is that
I get to learn about so many things. A casino has so many critical pieces that contribute to success. Each day, I have the opportunity to learn more. The second,
but no less important, aspect is getting to know and work with a very diverse group of professionals from all walks of life.
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received and from whom did you receive it?
Probably the best advice I received early in my career was to reset every day and appreciate the opportunity I have been given. I believe the statement was, “Is it harder to smile and give 100%? You have to be here either way.” My operations VP said this to me.
What advice do you have for those just starting in the gaming industry?
I think the challenge that we have today is that we use more communication
Name Randy Peterson
Current Title Vice President & General Manager
Company Ameristar Casino Hotel, Vicksburg Penn Entertainment
Years In The Gaming Industry 30+ Years
tools to deliver the message than real conversations.
• Show up, give 100%, and smile
• Create your career vision
• Communicate your career goals
• Request feedback on your performance • Stay curious
• Always, always bring energy!
How do you define “success”?
Success, to me, is defined by making a difference. Many people believe that success must be singularly achieved. I find much more satisfaction developing meaningful relationships. Helping people find their path and watching them attain greatness is incredibly fulfilling.
What is something you do each day just for yourself?
I love to listen to audiobooks, and I require two cups of coffee each morning.
What is it about the gaming industry that makes it a good industry?
It’s incredible how many different jobs gaming has to offer. This brings in such a diverse group of people. Gaming provides a unique opportunity to decide numerous career options that are transferable to all parts of the world. I don’t know of many industries that have been in existence as long as gaming that have had to innovate and continuously evolve at the same pace. I kind of think of it as hyper-hospitality.
WINTER 2025 MISSISSIPPI GAMING NEWS 9