Posted on Aug 29, 2016

 

Nearly 200,000 Minnesota Vikings fans descended upon the new U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis the weekend of July 23-24 to get their first up-close look at one of the finest sports venues in the country.

Mike Hill was one of many guest experience representatives on hand to welcome visitors, scan tickets, and help see to it that everyone had a good time.

Mike’s warm and engaging personality made him a perfect candidate for this job. With the support of Rise Job Developer Mary Steinmetz, Mike attended a job fair earlier this summer hosted by SMG, a worldwide entertainment and convention venue management company. SMG contracts with U.S Bank Stadium for support services positions.

Mike prepared for the job fair by getting a dress shirt and tie from Michael’s Closet, a ‘clothing boutique’ at Rise where the people we serve can find donated professional clothing and accessories for their job interviews and work at no cost. He was so determined to make a great first impression that he watched a You Tube video to learn how to tie his tie.

As a result of Mike’s thorough preparation, he was hired immediately.

Mike attended four training sessions this summer prior to the start of the big open house to learn the many tasks he will be doing.

“I will be working two to four major events each month, including Vikings games, sporting events, concerts, sponsored events — even weddings.” Mike noted. “My main zone will be behind the goal posts on the field. It’s a super fun job — it’s a dream come true!”

“I couldn’t have done this without Mary and [Service Team Leader] Lori Clauson plus all the support and encouragement that I got from everyone at Rise. There are no words to describe how happy and excited I am!”

When not working at U.S. Bank Stadium, Mike will continue his work at Rise through the Connections Brain Injury program. He specializes in clerical and data entry jobs.

Mike may have a busy schedule at work, but every Sunday, he serves as a greeter at his church. Mike also volunteers at a local nature center at the front desk where he takes tickets, sells merchandise, and greets guests. Mike says his volunteer work gives him one more way to make a difference in this community.