Laura Skelton, Cmp, Vemm Email and Phone Number

The Tech Interactive is a family-friendly science and technology center in the heart of downtown San Jose. Our hands-on activities, experimental labs and design challenge experiences empower people to innovate with creativity, curiosity and compassion. The Tech is a world leader in the creation of immersive STEAM education resources to develop the next generation of problem-solvers locally, nationally and globally. We believe that everyone is born an innovator who can change the world for the better. Everyday is an adventure at The Tech! Connections in Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area, please contact me if you have an idea or program you'd like to share with our community. We are always looking for great partners and those next big innovations!

The San Jose Museum of Art enriches the cultural fabric of the community and delights audiences with thought-provoking programs that inspire conversation, connection, and creativity. #Seewhatyouthink As a Senior Events and Development Officer, I plan and execute the Museum's Membership, Donor, Cultivation, Gala and Fundraising Events either on site or at off site locations as well as manage the venue's rental inquires and event experiences for corporations and organizations.

As an Event Consultant, I was the main point for all the creative solutions and products available to guests through the Disney Event Group. I worked closely with guests to assist in developing and communicating overall messages and weaving those messages thought every aspect of the event. From pre-conference communications, on-site production to events in Walt Disney World's iconic theme parks, sports complex and five owned & operated convention resorts.

Hired, directed and mentored the events sales and operations team that provided support for NASA and convention group events as well as established policies and Banquet Event Order (BEO) design for event operations, communications with internal departments and event sales to ensure clients' event expectations were exceeded. Increased convention event bookings by 64% and admissions by 29% as a result of creatively working within the operating hours of public venues, internal programs and NASA restrictions.

Sold and operated events from 20 to 3,500 guests within a live concert venue and the world's largest Hard Rock Cafe. Coordinated audio/visual support for general sessions and local entertainment, decorating support, floral/linen and photography vendors for event support.

As a creative liaison to clients, I was a one stop shop with designing groups' overall convention experience that included support from local transportation companies, floral, linen, photography, restaurant, decorating support, entertainment, production, theme park events, theme park admissions and tour companies. I generated leads by building strong relationships with area hotel sales managers, hotel convention services managers, Visit Orlando and soliciting organizations' meeting planners hosting conferences in Orlando.

I sold and contracted convention groups with 75 room nights and under as well as contracted and negotiated room rates with wholesale companies for leisure group nights.

Promoted from a sales assistant, this position was created to research non-traditional lead sources while maintaining current accounts and new business inquires during Resort Sales Managers' absence.