Built to Last: 20+ Years at Event 360 Featuring Slade Thompson
Event 360 is built by people who believe deeply in what they do. People guided by purpose, meaningful work, and a commitment to making the world better through the events we plan, produce, and execute.
We have more than a dozen individuals on our team who have called Event 360 home for more than 20 years. Their longevity is unusual in this industry, but for us it’s foundational. In this ongoing series, we honor the team members whose commitment, knowledge, and heart have helped shape our company. Through their stories, reflections, and memories, we celebrate not just the years they’ve spent here, but the impact they’ve made along the way.
Today, we’re proud to recognize Slade Thompson, who joined Event 360 in 2003 and currently serves as Event 360’s Production Director.
Name: Slade Thompson
Position: Production Director
Start Year: 2003
When you think back to your first year at Event 360, what stands out most to you now? In many ways we were laying the tracks as the train was coming. It was exciting and challenging to be part of the company getting started. Most of us came to the team with some event experience but we got to build the company and the team the way we thought was best.
Which of Event 360’s Six Values resonates most deeply with you, and how have you seen it come to life during your time here? Passion for Good. As I said recently to one of our partners, nobody here is getting rich or becoming famous doing this work. We do it because we believe in the work our partners are doing to make the world a better place. Every time I see a participant connect with someone who is going through a similar challenge, finds a resource they have been searching for, or has a moving experience that brings them closer to the causes we work for — that’s the biggest payoff for me.
Who at Event 360 (past or present) has had the greatest impact on you, and what did they teach you? I love dissecting or debating a traffic plan or site map. Tim Brockman has taught me so many things about those two topics in particular and how important they are. 20+ years and I’m finally getting it right the first time.
What is a moment — on event or behind the scenes — that you’ll never forget? Some of the funniest memories I have come from Concert for Valor and really nobody experienced them but me. I was working with Jake Geiger on the RVs for the performers and there was just one comedic (non-)crisis after another. On my third or fourth trip to reset the generator on Eminem’s RV, I snuck in the back side and made a sharp turn as I was walking with purpose and nearly tackled Bruce Springsteen.
What’s a lesson you learned at Event 360 that you’ll carry with you wherever you go next? Every event team I’ve been a part of has had to pivot and improvise at some point. I’ve been able to develop some pretty strong problem-solving muscles, and they are always handy to have.
What advice would you give to someone just beginning their Event 360 journey today? Get to know the people. There are so many caring and talented folks here, each with their own talents and surprises.
Thank you, Slade, for the care, craft, and consistency you bring to Event 360. Your presence and experience have left an indelible mark on Event 360. You are the calm in the storm that so many of us rely on and you are the spotter of so many of those storms both literally and figuratively. Whether you’re pacing in the little square of a Teams call or out on event, your steadiness reassures us and reminds us that all will be okay. We’re thankful for all you’ve contributed and for everything still to come!
