Transcript of interview with Robert Ambrose by David G. Schwartz, September 28, 2016

Robert Ambrose started in the gaming industry as a slot attendant at the Tropicana Atlantic City in 1985. After three years in that role, Ambrose was promoted to supervisor, a position he held for an additional five years before being promoted again to shift manager at the same property. He would eventually move into the position of executive director of slots and marketing operations which he held until he left the Tropicana in 2007. Ambrose went on to write for Casino Enterprise Management before helping to build and open Indiana Live! in Indiana. He later joined Drexel University to assist in building their gaming program and training lab. Ambrose is currently an instructor in the Center for Hospitality & Sport Management at Drexel and also writes for Casino Life magazine. The interview with Ambrose begins with his discussion of the various roles and duties of the different positions he held at Tropicana Atlantic City. He mentions some of the mentors he has had throughout his career and some of the important skills and approaches in slot management that they taught him. Ambrose then describes what he believes are the qualities of both good and bad slot managers before explaining his philosophy on what makes a good slot floor as well. He also provides details of his experience in building and opening a casino with the late Dennis Gomes and Cordish Gaming. He then discusses his experiences and interactions with slot vendors before describing how he believes slot operations has changed since he started in the industry, specifically considering changes in technology and the use of free play. Ambrose provides his opinion on the future of slots, particularly with skill-based gaming and eSports, and he answers the question of whether he gambles. Ambrose finalizes the interview by providing his advice to young people who want to eventually work in the slot industry.