Gus' Gazette Tag: Employee Spotlight

 

 

Name: Jason Lee
Department: Marketing & Creative
Birthday: August 2nd

 

Can you share your career journey at onPeak? How have you seen the company evolve over time?

You asked, so here it goes…

After operating my own design studio, working with brands such as McDonald’s, Disney, and NASCAR, I started my onPeak career in 2004 as the singular graphic designer at what was then called Travel Technology Group (TTG). I was hired at TTG to join the newly formed 4-person Marketing department. That Marketing team continued to grow as our efforts to increase block pickup and help win new business proved successful.

In 2008, TTG and another housing company based in Atlanta, called Ambassadors, were bought by private equity and merged (shout-out to our OG Atlanta onPeakers!). Those merged companies operated as one co-branded entity known as Travel Tech/Ambassadors and the Chicago-based Marketing team continued to grow to meet the needs of the additional clients and events that came along with the merger. Our in-house team worked with a trusted agency to create a new identity for the combined companies and in 2010, the onPeak brand was launched.

In 2011 I was promoted to Sr. Designer and oversaw a small team of talented designers. The Design team grew to support onPeak’s expanding design needs and I took on the role of Design Director in 2012. It was during this time that I got involved with not only further supporting onPeak’s marketing and sales initiatives but also working closely with the Product and Dev teams, designing the early user-interfaces for external Compass and the Dashboard. The Compass external interface still closely resembles the work we did all those years ago.

In 2014 onPeak and the other largest powerhouse in the event accommodations space, Travel Planners, were purchased by GES and merged (shout-out to our OG TP/NYC onPeakers!). Why the onPeak name was chosen for the combined companies is above my pay grade, but here we are!

During the pandemic, onPeak got very small and teams shrank profoundly. In 2021 I found myself part of a 2-person Marketing team—filling the role of Marketing Manager along with my Design responsibilities. Luckily, I was on this journey with a great partner, Chelsea Bergman, who we were fortunate enough to hire back after the pandemic. I learned a lot by walking a mile in a Marketing Manager’s shoes and am truly grateful for that experience.

As the world emerged and rebuilt after the pandemic, so did onPeak and our Marketing and Design teams. More Marketing Managers were hired (shout-out to OG onPeakers, Lisa Petersen and Patrick Fazio!), a new Director of Marketing was brought on, and I was able to resume my role as Design Director.

The Marketing and Design teams continued to rebuild and grow, seeing the additions of Jackie Heath as a Marketing Manager, Alexa Botello as an Associate Graphic Designer, and Robin Jones as Marketing Coordinator. In early 2025, I accepted the offer to take on the role of Sr. Director of Marketing & Creative, overseeing both the Design and Marketing teams under one new “Marketing & Creative” name. My move to Sr. Director left a gap in the Design team which allowed us to bring on our newest member, Jordan Annis, as an Associate Graphic Designer.

I consider myself very lucky to work with, and to have worked with, so many talented, wicked smart, kind, and fun(!) people during my long tenure with this company; I’m humbled by the support and camaraderie through our time working together and beyond.

Are there any achievements or moments during your time at onPeak that you are proud of?

There are many, too many to list, but the things that stand out are hiring great people and drinking too much with co-workers after work at Frankie’s on Clark Street.

What trends in marketing and design are you currently excited about?

AI might be a cliché answer, but it is taking the world by storm and of course has many implications and uses in both Marketing and Design.

What song would be the soundtrack of your workday and why?

This question is a music lover’s nightmare. Don’t pigeonhole me by only knowing one song I like (I am into a lot of different types of music, new and old!), but I might pick something like Pat Metheny Group’s “Are You Going With Me?” from their live album “Travels”. The song is a slow building journey filled with interesting twists and turns along the way—like the way I imagine an ideal workday would progress. And, because it’s an instrumental—I get distracted by lyrics when I’m working… “What did the vocalist just say? What does that even mean?!?!”.

What is a surprising or little-known fact about you that other onPeakers might not know?

Some folks may know this already, but I spent 6 years of my childhood, roughly ages 10-16, living in Europe. I lived in a small town southwest of London called Cobham in the early 80’s, and then in Heidelberg Germany in the mid-80’s. If you ever need to know how to order a liter of beer and a tequila sunrise in German, just ask me, I got you.

 

 

Name: Sarah Moore
Department: Account Services
Birthday: July 1

 

How long have you been with onPeak?

8 years this March!

What is your favorite onPeak memory?

Every onsite experience is always fun, but my favorite memories are when we have big groups together. Whether it’s a summer party or Atlanta Green Monster outing. I tell my family how thankful I am all the time, to not only have a job I enjoy, but co-workers I like seeing outside of work hours too. 😊

How do you balance stressful days?

When a client or a hotel gets me too stressed out, the best thing I’ve found to do is step away from my computer. If it’s cold out, I make a snack and just decompress, and if it’s nice out I’ll take my pup Charlie on a short walk. Nothing ever seems quite as bad when you come back. Also, pre-pregnancy I might or might not pour a glass of wine, but that’s been on pause lately.

What’s the most recent book you’ve read?

When am I not reading something? I think I’ll do some book recs instead. Lucy Score is one of my favorite rom-com authors (she’s in print and Kindle Unlimited if you are looking!). I read Help Wanted by Adelle Waldman last year and highly recommend to anyone who wants to read a fictional story about the real-life pains of working retail in the ever growing e-commerce market.

What are you currently binge watching?

Almost done re-watching Hart of Dixie on Prime right now and before that it was Grey’s Anatomy (for the 2^nd time).

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would be up for a Caribbean vacation any time of the year. There is just something about hanging out at a pool or the beach on an island.

 

 

Name: Leshawn Rue
Department: Account Services
Birthday: December 19^th (Sag!!!)

What’s your top 3 memorable onPeak moments/successes?

• Getting unhappy clients and turning them around
• Consolidating 3 positions into 1
• Atlanta Summer and Holiday parties!!!

What aspects of onPeak motivate you?

• The People!! 
• Constant change.  I hate being stagnant so the fact every event brings its own complexities and the everyday challenges excite me

What advice would you give to someone wanting to advance in within onPeak?

Own up to your mistakes, always look for places where you can make yourself better and never fear saying you don’t know or understand something.  Growth/advancement starts within and then shines on the outside.  Someone is always watching so they’ll see you.

Name 3 famous people you would invite to a dinner party (no exclusions)

• Tupac
• Michelle Obama
• Daenerys Targaryen or Arya Stark 😊

What are you currently binge watching?

Way too many things but most recent Love is Blind and Game of Thrones (for the 1000^th time).

If you had a YouTube channel, what would you talk about?

LIFE!  I’ve been through a lot but have never given up and welcome all the ups and downs.  They’ve taught me to live life to the fullest and I intend to do just that.

 

Name: Eric Twilegar
Department: IT Department
Time with onPeak: 15 + 7
Birthday: July 13

Can you tell us about your path to becoming the Sr Director of Product and Technology at onPeak?

I started with Travel Technology Group (TTG) as a Web Developer on Jan 3^rd, 2000. What a way to kick off the millennia ey?  At that point I had been doing desktop, networking, and server support for a larger corporation, but I had been programming software since my early teens. So, this was my first professional coding gig. This was during the .COM rush and Compass was still in early development. The database guy at TTG decided to move to Seattle, so I jumped into that role. I kept taking roles like reporting, server deployment, and Euro expert. The first few years were crazy with many overnighters and way too much junk food. Portillos and Rock and Roll McDonalds were my kitchen. Since I had banged out a lot of Compass both coding and deployment I was just naturally involved and became Director of Tech around 2005. I met my wife at TTG and we decided to move to Madison to start our family and this meant leaving TTG. I did stay on as a consultant and did work here and there until returning full time as a developer again in 2009 and then we became onPeak. We created the new external around this time and I took over database functions and other duties. As the existing director left, I took his role. When Covid struck the head of Tech and Product left and I assumed that role….and here we are once again.

What trends in technology are you most excited about and why?

AI is the only game in town now for better and worse. I think I am not excited about the grand visions as much as AI making basic internet searches faster and more productive. There are many times when folks need help in Excel, writing formally, or doing some math and AI can give you a great start and save you time. As for just doing our jobs it is mostly just hype, but it certainly should be able to get rid of some of the drudgery.

Do you have a favorite tech gadget or app that you can’t live without?

My days of playing with every new gadget ended a while back or maybe they have slowed down now that everything is just on our phones. I’m starting to get there with Gemini as I’m probably asking it first before doing a search.

What is one unexpected item on your bucket list?

Honestly, I don’t really have a bucket list. But if you need me to help with yours let me know. I’m trying to see all 33 NHL teams live, but that’s expected if you know me.

What’s one movie or tv show you could watch repeatedly?

I think I watched Edge of Tomorrow like 30 times for some reason. Back when cable was a thing and it was always on Showtime. Now its YouTube clips of Shorsey, 30 rock, Family Guy, and whatever the algorithm thinks I’m into this week.

What is the best place you have ever traveled to, and what made it special?

Amsterdam was my first trip out of the country. I was installing Compass and barely old enough to drink, so it was eye-opening. The canals and laid back atmosphere make it a nice place to be. Italy was a close second because of the company and all the history and good food.

 

Name: Megan Lennon
Department: Hotel Industry Relations
Time with onPeak: 18 years
Birthday: October 18

What do you think sets onPeak apart from others in the industry?

Our inspiring and dedicated employees set onPeak apart. Everyone truly cares about their events’ success and is proactive, engaged and creative.

What does a typical day look like in your role?

My typical day is fast paced while working on contracting several shows simultaneously. Strategizing, sourcing and negotiating contracts to create housing programs keeps me busy.

Can you share a memorable event or experience you’ve had at onPeak?

I will never forget wearing Viking helmets while axe throwing with the HIRM team in Chicago!

Do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about outside of work?

I’m an avid reader and take drawing classes.  I lead a Girl Scout troop (come to me with any cookie needs 😊) and enjoy traveling and being in nature with my family.

What’s your favorite book or movie and why does it resonate with you?

The Harry Potter series are my favorite books.  I read them as they were released and again twice with each of my daughters.  They are such a fun, magical escape.

Name: Tyler DeVos

Department: Tech Team
Birthday: August 27

What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being flexible. Unexpected challenges and opportunities arise that require the ability to pivot, shift direction swiftly, and adapt.
There a lot of value in embracing failure and learning from setbacks. Each setback (no matter how small) presents an opportunity for growth and improvement. By analyzing failures, identifying areas for improvement, and incorporating lessons learned into future endeavors,  I’ve been able to continually evolve and succeed in my career journey.

What drew you to want to be a part of onPeak?

I have a few friends who work here, and they talk about how fantastic it is to be able to work as a team to figure out solutions. Everyone has a voice and is able to suggest new ideas or technology.

Who inspires you/where do you get your inspiration? 

Inspiration can be contagious. Surround yourself with people you admire who bring out the positivity in you. I am fortunate to have a wonderful wife and three boys who help keep me pushing forward and motivate me to achieve my goals.

What game show would you most want to participate in?

Taskmaster UK

Whose ship is cooler – USS Enterprise, The Tardis, or Millennium Falcon?

Serenity

 

Department: Product
Time with onPeak: 7 years 5 months
Birthday: November 2nd

Can you tell us about your journey within onPeak and the different departments you’ve worked in? What lessons and insights have you learned along the way?

Once upon a time when onPeak was but a small company, I was there rocking my Account Manager hat. As an Account Manager I juggled responsibilities for both our current Account Executive and Group Services Associate roles. After we became a part of the GES family and our team expanded; I wore the hats of Account Executive, HIRM, and now Product Manager. I’ve been able to work with teams I both respect and have fun with; and have met some of my closest friends here. I’ve learned that growth isn’t linear and that you can’t go on a journey without a little change.

What do you think sets onPeak apart in terms of its approach to employee development and support? 

Our leadership excels at helping us uncover our true interests and then incorporate those passions into our roles. I’ve always loved problem-solving, poking around in Compass deadlands, and asking, “What does that button do?” Leadership actually pointed me in the direction of Product Management, and it couldn’t be a more perfect fit for me.

Can you share an accomplishment or project that you’re particularly proud of during your tenure here?

In 2022, I had the opportunity to enroll in a Product Management certification course. For the final project I chose to create a travel app. I know…shocker. I wanted to amp up my design skills, so I used the same toolbox our Product team uses daily. Since then, every project I’ve tackled at onPeak has benefited from those newfound skills. Kudos to my leadership team for fueling my professional glow-up!

If you could create your own holiday, what would it be called?

GPS Appreciation Day. Let’s be honest…if Google Maps or Waze disappeared there would be a nationwide panic. I live in Atlanta where it takes 45 minutes to get 5 miles and 45 minutes to get 20 miles. GPS…you make it make sense and you let me be late, but on purpose. Let’s give you your flowers.

What’s your favorite hobby or pastime outside of work?

Clubbing in Barnes and Noble, taking someone else’s dog to the park, happy tears in pilates every Saturday, avoiding complicated parking, brunching with a gluten allergy, Bollywood movies and K-Dramas, Baby Yoda home décor, and I can make a fire guac.

 

Name: Erin Eddy
Department: Call Center
Birthday: March 3rd

How long have you been with onPeak?

November 2009… So, 14ish years.

How do you balance stressful days?

Humor. Sometimes you just have to laugh at how absurd things are. I once had a caller ask me to find her a hotel in Chicago that had a cast-iron bathtub ‘with the gold feet’ in her room. She was dead serious.

If humor doesn’t work, music.

What is your favorite onPeak memory?

When we were in the Clark St. office, I used to help prank… ‘prank’ Helen Dulceac on her birthdays. One year, we covered her desk in sticky notes. Another year we covered her entire desk – ENTIRE DESK and everything on it in tinfoil. Those were pretty fun… and absurd. One year, I think for her 50th…? We built a tiny house around her cubicle. We used actual lumber and everything. If I remember correctly, I think she left it standing for something like 3 months.

What’s your favorite part about your city?

The diversity. In my neighborhood you’ll find just about every walk of life. It’s comforting.

What are you currently binge watching?

The wife has agreed to finally watch Star Trek. All of it. ALL-FIFTY-EIGHT-YEARS. Ha-ha. Sucker.

Name: Karen Wegrzyn

Department: Finance

Time with onPeak: 13 years in April 2024

Birthday: February 5th

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

I love being able to help others, especially with the financial piece of the onPeak puzzle.  The onPeak Finance team are the “translators” of financial information and it is a great day when we can assist an onPeaker with financial calculations and analysis of the actuals and audit results.

Can you share a piece of advice you’ve received that has been pivotal in your career?

Always be open to change which can bring new challenges but also provide the chance to push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

Do you have a favorite book or movie that has influenced you personally or professionally?

I recently read The Storyteller by Dave Grohl. My favorite reads are memoirs and I related to how who you meet at different points of your life can lead you in directions you hadn’t considered and foster lifelong friendships that truly span the globe.  As the wife of a former touring musician, I could relate to the rigid but awesome travel schedule and moving from one city to another so quickly.  Travel has always been a big part of my life and I’ve had the opportunity to see some pretty cool cities while accompanying the band on their tours.

Can you tell us about a passion project or hobby you’re currently engaged in?

I am a big gardener and have recently been working on determining what veggies we will grow this year in our raised bed garden.  Our garden can sustain not only my family but also others in the community that I live in.  There is usually an abundance of crops so it’s easy to share what we cannot use with our neighbors and with a local food pantry.

What has been your favorite travel destination and what made it such a memorable experience for you? 

It is difficult to choose which destination I would call my favorite.  I’ve been to Europe over 15 times!  Travel has been a guilty pleasure of mine since being in college many moons ago.  I found myself leaving the US at least once a year for over 15 years including 2 separate trips which were each 30 days long.  I now have the opportunity to share this love with my kids and last summer we traveled to Italy, Slovenia, Croatia and England in one 18-day trip. Aside from experiencing amazing scenery, adventurous activities like zip lining and spelunking, and unique local customs, there is so much to learn when traveling to another country and interacting with people from all over the world.

Department: Reservations

Birthday: May 7, XXXX – *A Lady Never Tells* (Evil Smile)

How long have you been with onPeak?

11 years

How would you describe your team?

The Reservations Team are beasts. Under the leadership of John Hunt, we are the ultimate athletes.  We Jump In and tackle ALL the events. We are the line of scrimmage, intercepting curve balls, and the anticipated goal of a World Cup.

How do you balance stressful days?

MUSIC – The driving force to change any mood.

What’s your favorite part about your city? (New York)

The diversity of the arts and cuisine – Every day there is something new happening. LOVE THIS TOWN.

What’s your favorite Halloween tradition?

I come from a LARGE FAMILY *TONS OF COUSINS*. We always dress up & have family parties. This Halloween the madness continues.