
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
The Power of Mentorship: Shaping Careers and Inspiring the Future of Live Events
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
The Power of Mentorship:
Shaping Careers and Inspiring the Future of Live Events
ROOM:
TIME:
F
8.15PM
This panel explores how mentorship shapes careers, builds lasting relationships, and inspires the next generation of live event professionals. Hear stories and strategies from both seasoned leaders and rising talent on the transformative impact of guidance and growth.
SPEAKERS

Jim Gregory
Jim Gregory is currently the Labor Manager at Special Event Services, a Concert Stuff Group company. He served as the Operations Manager for Main Light South and National H.O.W. account manager, Gregory brings years of lighting and production experience to his roles as Warehouse manager at Pulse Lighting, a design and lighting production company based in Nashville. Previously, he was the Southeast Regional Sales Manager with German Light Products; spent 10 years as Operations Manager with Delta Stage Lighting; and 18 years as the Warehouse manager/Lighting Technician with Bradfield Stage Lighting, and touring for 2 years prior.

Ben Henson
Ben Henson is a monitor engineer with three years of touring experience, known for delivering reliable and consistent mixes in demanding live environments. A graduate of The Blackbird Academy, he brings a solid technical foundation and a calm, professional presence to every stage. With a focus on supporting artists and crews through clear communication and attention to detail, Ben continues to grow in the live sound industry, earning a reputation for dependability and strong work ethic.

Christopher L. Jones
Christopher L. Jones is a seasoned event production and customer service professional with over 30 years of experience in live entertainment, hospitality, and technical production. He has worked across major venues, universities, and cruise lines, specializing in lighting, audio, stage management, and live streaming. Currently a freelance lighting and AV technician based in Nashville, Chris is passionate about fostering growth and collaboration in the industry, drawing on both his leadership roles and his own experiences as a mentor and mentee. His career reflects a commitment to building strong relationships and inspiring the next generation of live event professionals.

Zach McQueen
Zach McQueen is a Nashville-based touring production professional with years of experience in live music, specializing in lighting tech and board operation/design. He currently works with Bandit Lites, where he was honored as Best Tech of the Year— recognition he credits to the mentorship and guidance of Chris Lisle and Jake Tickle. Zach has supported national tours for artists including Stick Figure, The Marley Brothers, TobyMac, Rascal Flatts, Creed, and Papa Roach.
A two-year mentee in the CMA Touring Mentorship Program, Zach is passionate about the role mentorship and collaboration play in shaping the next generation of touring professionals. Before joining Bandit, he worked with local venues and casinos throughout his hometown region and later founded Artify Visuals, a creative agency combining photography, videography, and design to help artists and brands tell their stories.

Jake Tickle
MODERATOR
Jake Tickle grew up outside of Philadelphia, PA. After moving to Florida to earn a Degree in Show Production from Full Sail University, Tickle started his professional career at Vari*Lite Production Services. Driven by his love of travel and exploring the world he did a four year float on Cruise Ships. 2006 saw Jake move to Nashville to pursue a touring career. Tickle has spent the last 17 years at Bandit Lites and is currently the Vice President of Business and Innovation. Jake resides in Mt. Juliet, TN with his wife Erin and two sons.



