How can you create a work environment that encourages career growth in Event Production?

Determine what it is that you want to do.... exactly. "Event Production" is such a wide title it doesn't really determine WHAT you want to do. Figure out what your strengths are, and then lean into them. If you are a super creative person, look into things like design, content creation, etc. If you are less artistic but more technical, look into operator or engineer positions. Lean into your strengths.

A great way to get into the event industry is to start small and work your way up. When I started in the industry 31 years ago, I volunteered a TON of time under a great mentor. I did a lot of HARD work for a couple of years without making a dollar. But when my first paid opportunity came, I had the knowledge and skill set to EARN the money. I knew what I needed to know to get the job done; knowledge I wouldn't have had without putting in the time early on.

I started very young. Live Event Production is all I've ever done in my whole life, and I love it. By the time I was 15 years old, I completed the first audio system installation in an 800-seat venue, including soldering cables, hanging speakers, setting up and tuning the PA, etc, etc. My knowledge is what allowed me to successfully complete the job. But more importantly, if was the senior leadership of the venue who believed in me, and allowed me the opportunity to do the job. Honestly, it was a risk on their part, but they saw my complete and total dedication to the gig. If you are in Live Production currently, and you come across someone hungry to learn the industry, POUR INTO THEM. They are worth the time. Feed their hunger.

Find ways to expand your opportunities within the industry. It's amazing just how different some Live Event Production avenues are. For instance, and Audio Engineer for concerts/touring is a COMPLETELY different person with a completely different set of skills than an Audio Engineer for Corporate AV or a studio engineer. This is true for SO MANY technical production disciplines. Lighting a fashion show is different than lighting a theater production. Scripting is different. Video production is different. Even within your technical discipline of choice, find ways to broaden your skill set by getting involved in avenues that you might not normally. It will round out your abilities, and introduce you to new industry talent.

Everyone is a "10" at something. Some people are a "10" at cooking. Some are a "10" at time management. Knowing what you are a "10" at is important, and knowing what you are a "2" at is JUST as important. When creating growth, identify what people are a "10" at. People who hate math shouldn't be in accounting. If a person is stuck doing a job that they are NOT a "10" at.... not only do they feel unfulfilled (and likely the job quality is suffering), but they are stealing the spot for someone else who IS a "10" at their job. Figuring out a way to lean into people's "10" will spawn organic growth because people who feel good about what they do, do it better, quicker, and more efficiently. Morale heightens, and job quality increases.