You’ve worn many hats during your time here. How has that experience helped you when it comes to sales?

It was everything. Starting from the ground up as a driver really helped in understanding what we do here. The first day, you don’t know how any of it works and to learn all that as a driver was complicated. But I had a lot of support. Ricky Rodriguez took me under his wing and helped show me the ropes. 

Moving to inventory is when I really learned what all the gear is, how it operates, and how much of it we have. 

Then, going to the Guitar Department and actually getting hands-on with the gear, learning how it works, how it sounds, maintaining it, and even how you are supposed to plug different types of cables in, that was a big wake-up call. I had played guitar my whole life, but that was something I’d never really had to dive into before.

I’ve been in sales for five years now and having all that knowledge of what we had, along with learning pricing and inventory, helped a ton to move into this position.

What makes coordinating backline rentals more complex than people realize?

Although backline is what the musicians are actually using, it’s often the last thing people think about when setting up a show or tour. 

My job is to think through the entire setup before it ever leaves the warehouse. I’m constantly building the show in my head, making sure every piece is there, from instruments and stands to cables, power, and all the other accessories that may not be listed on the rider but are essential. That way clients have everything they need from the start and we avoid delays or extra deliveries.

What do you enjoy most about helping bring productions together?

I like being part of the vision. I like interacting with clients, making sure they’re happy and taken care of. My goal is for clients to trust me enough to be able to say what they want and know that I can take that information and turn it into what they need. I’ve built some good relationships with people over the years because they know they can call me and shit gets done. At the end of the day, that’s what people are looking for in this town. I enjoy being a part of that process.