ANNUAL WORKSHOP
ECCHO LIVE WORKSHOP 2025
On November 11, 2025, nearly 500 live event professionals gathered at Soundcheck Annex in Nashville for the 14th annual ECCHO Live Workshop—a day dedicated to connection, learning, and career growth in the live event industry. At its core, ECCHO Live Workshop is designed to support the people who make the industry thrive, by providing access to practical tools, expert guidance, and a network of peers, the workshop helps professionals grow, succeed, and navigate the ever-evolving world of live events.
The workshop featured a powerful keynote from Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association (CMA). Trahern shared insights from her own career journey, offering guidance and inspiration for professionals seeking to thrive in a dynamic industry. In addition to career-focused breakout sessions, we announced the expansion of our All Access program to include a Financial Wellness initiative. Attendees now have access to up to four free financial-coaching sessions each year, complementing the four free mental-health counseling sessions already offered.
The workshop also celebrated mentorship and leadership. Robin Majors, currently assistant tour manager for Kenny Chesney, was honored with the 2025 Sam “Old Skool” Harden Award, recognizing his decades-long commitment to mentoring and uplifting the next generation of professionals. From his early days touring with the Marshall Tucker Band in the 1970s to his current work on some of the industry’s biggest tours, Majors exemplifies excellence and dedication.
The workshop is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, whose investment helps empower the next generation of live event professionals.
ECCHO Live WORKSHOP 2025
Career Essentials Lab 1: Active Shooter Training with Defend Systems
Career Essentials Lab 2: Professional Headshots
Career Essentials Lab 3: Starting Your Career
Career Essentials Lab 4: Resume Consultation
Breakout Sessions Round 1
Crew to Command: Leadership Pathways in Entertainment
Ask the Money Panel: Answers for Life on the Road
Breakout Sessions Round 2
Navigating Life On and Off the Road: Tools For Self-Care Success
From Experience to Opportunity: Growing your career in live events personally & professionally
Freelance Like a Pro: How to Be a Contractor
Breakout Sessions Round 3
The Independent Contractor: Forging your own path in the event field
The Power of Mentorship: Shaping Careers and Inspiring the Future of Live Events
After Party
SAM OLD SKOOL AWARD
Sam "Old Skool" Harden was a lighting designer and technician at Bandit Lites that continually went above and beyond in helping guide those that were transitioning into their careers on the road. He was a hard worker, always had a smile on his face and a huge heart. Sadly, Sam passed away after a lengthy illness in the Fall of 2013. Although he is not present with us anymore his legacy will remain.
Each year at our annual workshop, ECCHO Live awards an industry leader who dedicates their time and energy to mentor and teach those just beginning their careers.
2025
Robin Majors, assistant tour manager for Kenny Chesney, began his career in the 1970s with the Marshall Tucker Band and continues to exemplify mentorship and excellence on the road.
Past Recipients
Mission
At ECCHO Live, we understand that the live event industry is more than a career—it’s a lifestyle fueled by passion, creativity, and resilience. From the front lines to behind the scenes, the people who bring unforgettable experiences to life deserve a resource they can count on for support, connection, and growth.
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