We’re excited to introduce this week’s Event 360 Teammate Spotlight. Enjoy a glimpse into the personal and professional life of Kristin Aukstik!
Position: Travel Manager
Start Year: 2003
What job did you hold right before you came to work at Event 360? Before Event 360, I was a Rider Representative for the Washington DC AIDS Ride. There, I was able to assist participants with their fundraising and training for the multi-day bike ride. I then toured with a team that produced fundraising walks and bike rides around the country and even a few international events.
Was there anything in particular that brought you to Event 360? The people. Not just the stellar team of people that we work with, but the amazing people and causes that we serve.
If you weren’t working at Event 360 what would you be doing? That is a great question. I would be somewhere else doing work that I love that makes a difference in other people’s lives.
Favorite part of your job? Two favorite parts – I really enjoy supporting each of our project teams on the travel front. I also really love working on events and connecting with our participants, volunteers and staff.
What do you like to do in your free time? I like to spend free time with family and friends. I like to keep active – running, biking and hanging outside with my dogs. Big fan of live music and theater as well.
Most memorable event experience? I got my start in events as a Rider in the Twin Cities to Chicago AIDS Ride back in 1998. Six days of riding 500 miles. I didn’t train well, so my longest ride before the event was 30 miles. I was able to complete every mile with the exception of one large hill that got the best of me. I will never forget the feeling of riding into downtown Chicago wearing my yellow victory shirt proudly. This feeling is what we are able to create for our participants still to this day. Side note: I re-registered for the AIDS ride in 1999 and conquered that hill.
You’re showing off your hometown to a friend who has never been to visit before. What’s on your must see/do/eat list? Chicago is a GREAT town to show off. We are a fantastic sports town, world-class park spaces in the middle of a spectacular skyline, a playground for foodies, incredible theater and live music, miles of waterfront. The city is surrounded by several neighborhoods with their own unique personality and culture. Plenty to choose from.
On event, what three things are we guaranteed to find in your bag? You will definitely find my laptop, gloves and a utility knife.
One word to describe Event 360? Family.
