Kris Ackerman is a regional rigging manager for Special Operations at Encore. At LDI 2025 he is a speaker at RIGZ!: A Two-Day LDI Rigging Intensive - Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7 filling us in on the tips and techniques for ballroom rigging.
Live Design: Can you describe yourself in less than 50 words?
Kris Ackerman: Experienced regional rigging manager with 18 years in entertainment rigging, CAD design, and technical production. Built and lead Encore’s Rigging Special Operations team, providing expert support across North America. ETCP certified with degrees in Recording Arts and Entertainment Business. Passionate leader, problem solver, musician, and devoted father and husband.
LD: Please give a brief overview of your training/education/career path.
KA: I began my career in 2007 with Disney Consumer Products and Studios as an AV Technician and Coordinator, followed by freelance audio work for clients such as 3M, Best Buy, and Target. In 2010, I joined the hospitality live event industry full-time as an AV Technician, progressing through roles as Tech Specialist-Rigger, Assistant Director, Rigging Coordinator, Senior Rigging Manager, and now Regional Rigging Manager. Along the way, I developed Encore’s Rigging Special Operations team—created to support complex, large-scale events across the U.S.
I hold an A.S. in Recording Arts and a B.S. in Entertainment Business, with ETCP Arena certification.
LD: Please describe your most recent project.
KA: Supported my team with a large scale event held at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. With 218 hoists, 3,623ft of truss spread across four halls.
LD: What are you teaching at LDI and who is your target audience?
KA: Ballroom Rigging - Things to Consider, Standards and Room Layout. Primarily those who are new to rigging in ballrooms and those who want to learn ways to work within the common limitations and challenges they present.
LD: What is your advice for people just getting into the industry?
KA: Ask question even when you think it may be a stupid one and remember we are never done learning! Safety is everyones responsibility!