Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiley Butler.
Hi Kiley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
We began more than 24 years ago as a nonprofit organization producing events for teenagers across the country. Almost immediately, we started receiving requests from other organizations asking if we could provide audio-visual support for their events using our equipment. What started as a mission-driven nonprofit quickly evolved into a full-scale event production company.
Like many businesses, the transition wasn’t without challenges. We had to pivot our business model, learn how to scale responsibly, and invest heavily in people, systems, and infrastructure. Eventually, we made the strategic decision to step away from producing our own events and focus entirely on building what we believed could be the highest-quality audio-visual company in the region.
Today, ProductionOne offers far more than live event services. We also operate a robust AV design and installation division led by some of the most talented engineers in the area. This team has designed and installed audio, video, and lighting systems for higher education institutions such as Freed-Hardeman University and LeMoyne-Owen College, as well as venues like Agricenter International, the Bartlett Performing Arts Center, school systems, and churches throughout the region. The road hasn’t always been smooth, but every challenge helped shape the company we are today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all — and that’s been one of our greatest teachers. One of our first major growth phases was significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced us to rethink nearly every aspect of our business in real time. Like many companies in live events, we had to pivot quickly to survive. That led us into operating large-scale seasonal experiences such as the Memphis Zoo’s “Boo” and “Lights” events, and Shelby Farms Park’s “Starry Nights,” which required an entirely different operational mindset and introduced new logistical and staffing challenges.
During and after the pandemic, we also found ourselves growing our technical capabilities faster than the local market could immediately support. That created another learning curve — understanding when to expand, when to pause, and when to pivot again. Eventually, we made the strategic decision to step back out of the holiday lighting space and refocus our energy on our core strengths in audio-visual production and integration.
Like any growing organization, people decisions have also been both a strength and a challenge. We’ve been fortunate to hire many incredibly talented team members who have helped shape ProductionOne into what it is today. We’ve also made hires that weren’t the right fit, and learning how to navigate those moments thoughtfully — while protecting the culture and momentum of the company — has been difficult at times.
At the end of the day, leadership itself has been one of the greatest challenges and opportunities. Learning how to lead well, communicate clearly, and make decisions that serve both the business and the people within it is a daily process. The road hasn’t been smooth, but each obstacle has made the company stronger and helped clarify who we are and where we’re going.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about ProductionOne?
ProductionOne is a full-service audio-visual production company providing equipment and technical expertise for events ranging from large-scale events and concerts to high-end corporate meetings and experiential brand activations. We specialize in audio, video wall, lighting, and complete production solutions that help organizations communicate clearly and create memorable experiences.
What truly sets us apart is our approach. In an industry that can sometimes be transactional and focused on speed or price alone, we’ve built ProductionOne to be a long-term partner. Our team prioritizes customer service, technical excellence, and collaboration. We don’t just show up with gear — we become an extension of our clients’ communications and event teams to ensure their message is delivered at the highest level.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of our reputation and the trust we’ve earned over decades. We’re honored to work with incredible organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, FedEx, Shelby Farms Park, International Paper, Landers Center, Redwood, The Orpheum Theatre Group, the Halloran Centre, and hundreds of others. Our goal has always been simple: help our clients get it right, every time.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice is to pursue mentorship early and continue seeking it throughout your career. Networking is important and absolutely has its place, but having mentors who can guide you through unexpected challenges is invaluable. Mentors provide perspective you simply can’t gain on your own.
I personally have three mentors, and I approach those relationships with humility and a desire to learn. I try to be a sponge — asking questions, listening closely, and applying what I learn. Strong mentorship has played a significant role in both my personal growth and the long-term success of ProductionOne.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ProductionOne.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/productiononeav/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productiononeav
- Twitter: https://x.com/productioneav
