Lily Piskunova, Event Coordinator at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, began her journey with Smart City Networks in the fall of 2018 as a part-time Customer Service Representative. Since then, she has transitioned into the role of Event Coordinator, a position she finds deeply rewarding. Lily recently sat down with us to share her story and insights, touching on topics such as what initially attracted her to Smart City, her favorite aspects of the job, and the collaborative team culture that keeps her inspired. Don’t miss this amazing interview! Lily Piskunova, this is your Spotlight!
Hi Lily! To start, I want to hear about your background. Have you always been passionate about the events industry?
L: I’ve always enjoyed working with people, which initially drew me to customer service. Over time, I became increasingly captivated by the events industry, with its dynamic nature and the energy involved in planning and executing successful events. The variety of challenges keeps me engaged and constantly learning.
What first drew you to Smart City?
L: What first attracted me to Smart City was its reputation for innovation and quality in connectivity services. Being part of a company that leads the way in providing essential technology, especially in the events industry, was an exciting prospect for me.
I know there’s been a few big changes at your center with Keith McNeely retiring this year and Guillermo Huerta taking over as General Manager. What’s that been like for your team?
L: With Keith McNeely retiring and Guillermo Huerta stepping in as General Manager, it’s been a transition period for us. However, our team has remained adaptable and strong. Guillermo brings a fresh perspective, and we’ve been able to maintain momentum while also embracing new growth opportunities.
What does your job entail? How would you describe your day-to-day activities?
L: As an Event Coordinator, I handle a wide range of responsibilities, from working with clients and vendors to ensuring logistics run smoothly during events. My day-to-day involves balancing multiple tasks, including finalizing event details, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with different departments to ensure everything runs seamlessly.
Do you have a favorite part of your job?
L: My favorite part of the job is seeing all the hard work come together. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching an event run smoothly and knowing that all the preparation behind the scenes paid off.
How would you describe your team culture in San Antonio?
L: Our team culture is highly collaborative and supportive. We work closely together, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie. Everyone brings their strengths to the table, and we have a deep respect for each other’s contributions.
What do you like most about your convention center?
L: I love the versatility of the Henry B. González Convention Center. It’s equipped to host a wide range of events, from large conventions to intimate meetings. This versatility allows us to serve a broad range of clients. The layout and facilities foster creativity and collaboration, which makes it an exciting and inspiring place to work.
How would you describe the relationship between Smart City and the HBGCC? What is it like to work together to provide the best customer service and connectivity for shows?
L: The relationship between Smart City and the Henry B. González Convention Center is rooted in strong collaboration and shared goals. Our Smart City team and the people at HBGCC have developed a great working relationship, ensuring that every event runs smoothly. We combine Smart City’s expertise in connectivity and technology with the convention center’s event management and facilities. Together, we prioritize exceptional customer service, ensuring the best experience for clients and attendees alike. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a team so dedicated to excellence and innovation.
Have you had a favorite event so far?
L: One of my favorite events is the San Antonio Breast Cancer Conference, which we host annually. This conference brings together leading researchers, healthcare professionals, and advocates to drive advancements in breast cancer treatment and care. It’s a truly impactful event, and knowing that Smart City plays a key role in ensuring seamless connectivity for attendees and presenters is deeply rewarding. The energy in the room is always palpable, and the fact that we contribute to such a meaningful cause makes this event a highlight of my work each year.
Have there been any instances you can think of where you have used one of our 10 Business Principles in the Workplace?
L: I often turn to the principle of ‘It’s the People.’ We have a great team of individuals who are not only capable of achieving great things but who come to work every day fired up and ready to contribute. During one event, a client faced a technical issue, and our team immediately came together to resolve the problem. It was inspiring to see how quickly and efficiently we could address the situation when everyone was motivated and working toward the same goal. It’s a clear example of how great people can thrive in an environment that amplifies their energy.
What advice would you give to new hires who are starting with Smart City?
L: My advice to new hires is to embrace every learning opportunity. The events industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, so adaptability is key. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek mentorship from your colleagues. Building relationships and continuously learning will help you grow in your role and succeed at Smart City.
To wrap things up, what is something fun that people don’t know about you?
L: Something fun that people might not know about me is that sport plays a big role in my life. I used to run track, and I’m also a certified personal trainer. These days, I really enjoy playing pickleball, which has become one of my favorite ways to stay active and competitive. Staying involved in sports helps me stay energized and focused, both in my personal life and in my work.
Thank you to Lily Piskunova for the interview! For more Smart City Spotlights, check out our blog!
