We’re excited to introduce this week’s Event 360 Teammate Spotlight. Enjoy a glimpse into the personal and professional life of Kat Thomas!
Position: Event Planning Manager, MuckFest® MS
Start Year: 2010
What job did you hold right before you came to work at Event 360? I was actually an Aggie at New Mexico State University. I’m still amazed when I think of how lucky I was to become a part of the Event 360 team right out of college. Not bad for my first “adult” job!
Was there anything in particular that brought you to Event 360? I was a volunteer for Susan G. Komen on the Go in college and was immediately drawn to the Event 360 team leading the event. They were passionate, caring and left an impression on me unlike any other. When graduating, I thought back to what I really loved in school and Komen on the Go was all I could think about. I had to become a member of the team so I set my sights on just that. Two months later I was part of the tour team and starting my first adventure with Event 360.
If you weren’t working at Event 360 what would you be doing? I’d still be planning events, but on a much different scale. I always loved camp growing up, so I’d hope to put my spin on events and programs at a sleep away camp out east. Potentially having the children plan an event for the community that has a fundraising aspect to it for a cause they identify with.
Favorite part of your job? The people. The word coworker doesn’t really describe anyone I work with. We have a mutual respect for one another that creates an ideal community to work in. I also love each and every interaction that comes my way through the different places we host events and the various types of events we plan.
What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy being active and traveling. I like to run, bike, and spend time around the lake; really anything to take advantage of the sun to prepare for the Minnesota winter months. There’s also a good chance that you’ll find me on a patio at a local brewery laughing with friends.
Most memorable event experience? I would have to say the 2012 Susan G. Komen Washington, D.C. Race for the Cure. It was my first year managing Late Registration and Event Kit Pick-up, so I was a little stressed (putting that lightly). The biggest challenge was transferring packet pick-up from a hotel to the site in the middle of a down pour and high risk tornado warning. Our flooring was starting to float if that gives you an idea of how much it was raining. Let’s just say it’s a fun event to look back on!
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? Must see – Franconia Sculpture Park. It’s about 30 minutes outside the Twin Cities and not something you’ll usually find on a travel guide. Artists from all over the world come and live on the grounds while they complete their sculpture. Must do – the Stone Arch Bridge is one of my favorite places in the city. There’s something special about walking across the bridge and looking over at the magnitude of the Mighty Mississippi. Must eat – the Midtown Global Market is my definition of an international food smorgasbord. A great place to have a progressive meal.
On event, what three things are we guaranteed to find in your bag? My trusty knife, a belt and Burt’s Bees.
One word to describe Event 360? BOLD
