What brought you to the industry?
Getting into the industry actually happened by accident. It was the holiday season years ago when I was a realtor and single mother that I needed cash sooner than my next real estate closings. I saw an ad for a new concept of an indoor family entertainment center looking for staff for their grand opening. The center was 24,000 square feet with mini-golf, roller skating, bumper cars, and 100-game arcade. I made the call and the infamous Al Kress of Benchmark Games answered. I asked if there were any part-time opportunities and he told me to come in immediately and ask for him personally, which I did. I was initially hired as a skate guard on Saturday—noon to midnight—a shift that made it easier for me to get one babysitter for the day. Long story short, I worked through the holiday season and then moved to redemption, to front desk, to the office. The new center was not open long before two of the partners bought out the others and I was asked to consider a full-time management position. The two owners then became absentee owners, and it was there that I was entrusted to run the facility. By then I had the FEC bug.
What piece of advice would you give someone new wanting to join the industry?
For those looking to join the industry, I strongly suggest that you realize it is not like any other traditional business. The business can consume you at times—if you let it—while becoming one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have. You become part of providing memories and experiences that last a lifetime. Do your homework. If given the opportunity, shadow another facility owner, someone who walks that walk. People who have run a successful business are key people to connect with. Get involved in associations like IAAPA where you can have tools and resources specifically for this business.
How did you become the leader you are today?
During my career I was lucky to have owners who allowed me the time and space to broaden my horizons. They gave me latitude to try anything at least once, which I did. My parents used to visit me at work and look around and say, “A marketing degree and you come to work and play? We don’t get it?” Our company expanded to five locations and I was able to control programming for all as director of marketing. Some of our innovative programming was noticed by local newspapers, TV stations, and industry magazines. I became a feature writer for trade publications where I got the chance to share my experiences. From there, I began delivering seminars and programs for various associations. Our locations won many awards for our programs as I made my way through executive positions for different associations. As president of IALEI (International Association of Leisure and Entertainment Industry) and the hard work of our board, we were instrumental in merging our smaller association into IAAPA to bring expansive resources to our membership. Through industry education and networking, I had the opportunity to connect with professionals who were always willing to share their experiences, knowledge, and advice. Learning from others and building those relationships has played an important role in my success throughout my career.
