CSMG, EsportsU, and Cisco fuel career pathways through collegiate esports

Collegiate Sports Management Group (CSMG) and EsportsU have partnered with Cisco to launch a first-of-its-kind collegiate esports pit crew certification program, with Cisco serving as a Corporate Champion Sponsor for the (Collegiate Esports Commissioners Cup) CECC May Madness 2026 event.

The certification program, called the "Cisco Pit Crew," creates new career pathways for students by combining real-world work experience, education, and certification to prepare them for roles in esports events and broadcasts. It also connects Cisco Networking Academy training to life in high-stakes settings, embodying the precision and innovation that drive Formula One (F1) racing.

"Gaming and esports are transforming higher education,” Angela Bernhard Thomas, the chief esports officer at EsportsU, said. "Campuses are building arenas, creating academic programs, and awarding scholarships. The Cisco Pit Crew extends that momentum by offering tech-savvy students a role behind the scenes — just as important as players and coaches."

According to CSMG, it will select 12 schools to form elite campus Cisco Pit Crews. Students will then train and get access to Cisco Networking Academy courses and an esports infrastructure module. The certification program will lead to a Cisco Pit Crew certification.

The Cisco Pit Crew experience will also be featured during CECC May Madness 2026, which will have F1-inspired simulations in a live pit environment. This will test students' networking, security, and latency management skills.

Additionally, CECC May Madness 2026 will include activations featuring Riot Games and League of Legends content. This will be complemented by the Cisco Pit Crew Awards plus the Esports Director’s Reception event.

That's all for now. Stay tuned to esports.gg for the latest in the esports collegiate scene, esports business, and more.