Written by OLI Relationship Manager Erin Lyn Kruse
CES has a rhythm of its own. Early mornings, late nights, tight windows, and a show floor that never really sleeps, even in Las Vegas. I spent a few days in Vegas supporting one of our clients, with crews working around the clock to keep things moving. At a show of this size, spread across multiple convention centers and hotels, everything is connected, and even small decisions can have a big impact.
What stood out to me at CES, was the choreography. Crews moving in and out at all hours, show management balancing competing priorities, and plans and designs changing on the fly. Being on site meant staying connected to all of it, helping solve problems as they come up and making sure work kept progressing safely and efficiently. It was also a great opportunity to meet and see On Location and client team members from all over the country and beyond in person, many of whom I usually only communicate with by email or online meetings. Having these face-to-face conversations really reinforced the trust and bonds we rely on to work effectively together. Most of this effort happens behind the scenes, but it’s what keeps the show running.
CES also reinforced the value of strong partnerships, especially within a layered client structure. When communication is clear and expectations are understood, the work flows better. Experience matters. So does trust. Those elements, combined with the personal connections built on site, are what allow large-scale shows to come together under pressure and tight timelines.
As my time on site wrapped up, CES 2026 reminded me that while the innovation may draw the crowds, it’s planning, coordination, skilled labor, and strong personal connections that bring it all to life. I am proud to have been on site supporting our client, seeing our amazing management and labor teams in action, and strengthening relationships that make events of this scale possible.
