Hometown: Madison, MS

Degree: B.S. in Sport Communication, 2010

What are the responsibilities of your current position?

• Oversee day to day operations of a PGA Tour event
• Design and manage the construction and install layout of all hospitality venues, electronic scoreboards, and on-course signage
• Develop and implement operational schedules and timeline plans with vendors/contractors per tournament set-up and breakdown
• Electrical/HVAC, operational support staff, tent project managers, security, medical response, landscape, restroom facilities, modular trailers, etc.
• Assist in implementing a course evacuation plan for Tour players, volunteers, caddies and spectators.
• Monitor the development of traffic flow patterns and parking plans.
• Coordinate and meet with advance Tour officials on specifications for course layout & pre event checklist.

How did your education at MSU help prepare you for work in the field?

The Mississippi State Sport Communication program helped provide me with the opportunity that I have today. For two years, I was a student volunteer with a number of fellow classmates at this event when it was the Viking Classic. In 2010, I completed an operations internship with the Viking Classic, and I became a part of the full-time staff in May 2012. My professors provided me with the knowledge and resources in the sport industry that I am able to utilize on a daily basis. They encouraged me as a student to seek experience as a volunteer, networking and applying for internships.

What advice would you give to current students looking for internships or jobs in the field?

The sport industry isn’t a 9 to 5 job. The hours are long, and a lot of the time your job is going to consist of working over weekends and holidays. I would tell any students interested in working in the sport industry to volunteer, network, and intern as much as possible. Learn to be an effective team player and be willing to do things outside of your position. Gain insight into different aspects of the sport industry before settling on one position. Those who have experience in different facets of a company can be a very valuable staff member and set themselves apart from others. The professors can give you the resources and encourage you to seek opportunities, but ultimately it is up to you to get your foot in the door.