Now that it is summertime, things are really moving fast in the shop. Many of our techs are out in the field, working a series of music festivals as well as tours and local events. We are strapped for time and resources to get the gear out the door. This is where the real fun begins. We now have a much faster turnover and with the rate of inventory going out and coming back, we have to be on top of our game.
The focus becomes making sure we keep our inventory as up-to-date as possible and double-checking gear, to make sure it is scanned correctly to where it’s going, or if it’s scanned back in. With the ongoing truck parties throughout the day, it can become difficult to get all the gear returned before another gig is unloaded.
We also have days when we get one gig in, turn it around, re-prep it for another gig, and send it out the door, all in one long day. It doesn’t happen as much as it used to, but these days are the most craziest but fun experiences. Once we have the gig unloaded, it’s all hands on deck to get it scanned, turned around and ready for prep. Usually, these turn arounds go later into the evening. We all stay late to catch up on work, but also to help load the truck, once the prep is done.
Keeping track of all the craziness that Festival Season brings requires serious organization and foresight of what’s happening next. The whole shop works as a team to make sure each department is on track for prep schedules and load dates. We also put a huge focus on filling gear shortages as quickly as we can with gear that is returning to the shop or out for repairs. We are constantly looking ahead to see how we can solve any shortages or other issues we may have, efficiently and effectively before a gig heads out.
It’s been a crazy few months in the shop. But we have a lot of fun working together as a team and doing what feels like the impossible. It’s very rewarding seeing all that you have conquered in one day.