After 30 Years in the Exhibit Industry — Kevin Carty

Trade Show Blog

Kevin Carty, Classic Exhibits Inc.
Kevin Carty, Classic Exhibits Inc.

On July 8, 1994, 30 years ago, I was offered a job by a friend (now my brother-in-law) to work for his father’s new business. At the time, I was working overnight shifts at a supermarket from 11 pm to 7 am. Then I’d head to college until about 3 pm. It was summer break from college, but I jumped at the chance for a normal work schedule and shift to evening classes in the fall.

Aside from the schedule, joining the small (5 people) team at Classic Exhibits was super intriguing to me. I knew it would likely grow and that I could be a part of that growth. What I didn’t know at the time was that the decision to “get off the night shift” would have a meaningful impact on my life, both professionally and personally.

The Decision that Changed My Life

Accepting the offer from Lowell Nickens at Classic was a real tipping point for me. Not only did Lowell become my first professional mentor, to whom I still lean on at times, but he also became my father-in-law in 1999. Accepting this job set off a course of life events that 30 years later includes having met my wife, having an amazing set of 17-year-old twins, and developing many friendships in this industry.

We all often muse about wanting to work with friends in a family environment with like-minded people. I have been truly blessed when it comes to ALL of that! 

I was asked recently by my mother what my favorite part has been. The answer was/is simple — the people. 

  • All of you (you know who you are) who have impacted my life professionally and personally. 
  • All of you who have not been afraid to tell me what I need to hear… even when I don’t want to hear it.
  • All of you who have spoken into my personal life along the way.

Sincerely grateful,

Kevin Carty
kevin@classicexhibits.com

For 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. 

Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.

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