Kaitlyn Hanson, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as the Senior Organizer Operations Manager at Freeman Company, a global brand experience company that provides integrated services for events, trade shows and exhibits.
What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?
After finishing my freshman year, I had no idea what direction to take with my major. I remember sitting down with my advisor and listing all the things I didn’t enjoy, but when it came to what I did like, I struggled. Then I started naming the things I was good at: talking, staying organized, making lists, entertaining…you get the idea. That’s when my advisor said, “PRTM is the place for you.” She explained that this major would let me explore a variety of opportunities while putting my strengths to the test. And she was right! I’ve been able to apply the skills I learned at Clemson in my career.
How did your Clemson experience prepare you for your career in event operations and hospitality?
One of the best parts of being a PRTM student was the variety of classes offered. Internships were another highlight. I completed three during my time at Clemson: Artisphere, Greenville’s annual art festival; Euphoria, the city’s food, wine, and music festival; and Meals on Wheels of Greenville, where I assisted with events like the Sweetheart Charity Ball and the Meals for Wheels cycling event. These experiences not only gave me practical skills but also connected me with incredible people in the Greenville community. In fact, I later became the Resource Coordinator at Meals on Wheels, a direct result of those connections. Internships were more than a requirement; they were a launchpad, helping me find my direction and preparing me for the real world.
Can you describe your current role as Senior Organizer Operations Manager with Freeman and what your day-to-day looks like?
My current role is a little bit of everything, which makes it exciting! Every day looks different, keeping things fun and interesting. I’m part of Freeman’s Organizer Operations team, created just three years ago, where we’re the operational experts behind the scenes. My specialty is EAC management. For context, an EAC (Exhibitor Appointed Contractor) is a third-party vendor hired to perform services onsite at an event on behalf of an exhibitor. I work with clients to build custom portals that collect this information, then partner with exhibitors and EACs to ensure they meet every requirement to access the show floor safely.
Another big part of my role is sponsorship fulfillment management, managing deadlines, expectations, and asset collection so sponsors get maximum value for their investment. Our team also handles full conference planning, speaker management, exhibitor booth reviews, and much more. Although the role involves travel, getting to explore new cities across the country and sometimes the world makes it even more rewarding. Every day is a new challenge, and being part of this team has been an incredible opportunity to learn and grow in this industry.
You’ve been part of major trade shows, exhibits, and events. What have those experiences been like, and what do they teach you about working in high-profile event environments?
Being part of major trade shows, exhibits, and events is both exhilarating and eye-opening. These environments are fast-paced, high-stakes, and full of moving parts, which means adaptability is key. No two days are the same, and that teaches you to think on your feet, solve problems quickly, and stay calm under pressure. What I’ve learned most is the importance of planning and communication. When you’re working on large-scale events, every detail matters, because one small oversight can cause a huge ripple. It’s all about collaboration, anticipating challenges, and having contingency plans ready.
These experiences also reinforce the value of relationship-building. I’ve learned it’s important to lean on your team, tapping into their different strengths and learning from those around you. At the end of the day, working in these environments teaches resilience, creativity, and the ability to deliver excellence under pressure. I am thankful to have been a part of several well-known events, including CES, World of Concrete, IACP, RE+, AAD Annual Meeting, and many more!
What advice would you give current PRTM students who are interested in event operations, hospitality, or trade show and exhibit management?
My biggest advice? Keep an open mind. Don’t just take the “easy” classes; choose the ones that challenge you. Those are the courses that will stick with you and shape your career. And here’s the game-changer: DO THE INTERNSHIP. Even if it’s unpaid or the hours are weird, it’s worth it. Hands-on experience and real connections will take you further than any textbook. I still use skills I learned during my college internships every day. The job market can feel overwhelming, but experience gives you confidence and an edge. When you can talk about real projects, you are not just another applicant; you are ten steps ahead. So, challenge yourself and say yes to opportunities. Your future self will thank you.
