Employee Spotlight: Thom Demattei
One of the biggest things that make our continued success and growth at T3 Expo possible is the caliber of people who work here and the breadth of talent they bring to the company. We enjoy highlighting new employees and are excited to welcome Thom Demattei to the T3 family.
Thom brings his wealth of experience to the role of Graphic Operations Director, and is based out of our San Francisco office. We have already benefited from his graphic expertise and look forward to many more successful shows. Here's a little more about his background in his Employee Spotlight interview below:
1. How did you get started in the expo and trade show industry? Can you provide insight into some of your past experience?
I began my Graphics journey back in the mid 80s. It was then that I decided to change careers and go back to college to obtain a degree in Graphic Design. While attending San Jose State University, I worked for various sign shops, learning many skills and methods along the way. I was fortunate enough to begin in the industry, before computers, which allowed me to understand the roots of how everything was created. I was able to learn hand painting (lettering), silk screening, sandblasting, neon and vinyl, as well as many other methods of sign fabrication. All of these without the aide of any modern technology or machinery.
In the early 90s, I was working for a custom Graphics shop and we produced many prop pieces and Graphics for GES and Freeman. When Champion came out to the West Coast, most of the staff came over from GES and I was asked to join them and run their Graphics department. Although hesitant at first, this turned out to be a great transition in my life.
2. What is your title and job description?
Last October, I accepted the position of Graphic Operations Director, out of our South San Francisco office. I like the fact that T3 Expo is still a relatively young company (both literally and figuratively). I see great potential for growth and adaptability as the industry changes.
3. What motivated you to join T3 Expo?
I worked for Champion for almost 16 years, before they were purchased by Freeman. I was with Freeman for a little over 4 years before deciding that I needed to make a change. Luckily, around that time, an opportunity arose to join the T3 team. It wasn’t really a difficult decision for me. I had worked with (and had great relationships with) Chris, Chris and Nate when we were all with Champion. After a few short discussions I realized this was the perfect place for me. Their vision for where they wanted the company to go was very close to where I would like to be.
4. Ten years from now, where do you see T3 Expo in the general service contracting space?
Ten years from now, I see T3 Expo having a distinct niche in the trade show industry. While not the biggest, I see a level of personability and service that will be hard to match, and will definitely make us stand out.
5. In addition to your passion for the events industry, what are some of your other hobbies and/or things you like to do in your spare time?
As much as I love my job, I also love spending time with my family. I like to spend as much time as possible outdoors; golfing, hiking, traveling and playing sports like softball, basketball, football...and whatever else may be going on around me.
I look forward to a very bright future with T3 Expo!