WESST Blog

Tom joined the WESST team in October 2021 as the Studio Manager for the Comcast Digital Media Studio. We are happy to have him as part of the WESST family and hope you enjoy learning a little more about him.

What made you want to come to work for WESST?

I moved to Albuquerque from NYC and came across the job listing for the Studio Manager position. I threw my name in the hat, not really knowing the connection of WESST as an organization that helps people start and grow their businesses and The Comcast Digital Media Studio as a fully functioning sound stage/green screen studio available to any film & video production. When I first came in and saw the space and the potential it has alongside the amazing work that WESST is able to do with New Mexican’s and small businesses, I was all in. Just knowing I was working in an industry that I love and that revenue from the studio would help to support the organization with such incredible programs was all I needed to hear.

What was your very first job?

My first job was umpiring little league baseball games. I was pretty young, probably a sophomore in high school, and normally on your first game, you would be the field umpire rather than the head umpire so that you can get comfortable in the position of making calls. The old guy I was set to call the game with told me he was injured and couldn’t squat behind the catcher all game, so I was promoted to head umpire on my very first game. If you know baseball, you know that umpire behind the plate is loud and animated. I was so nervous that the first few innings I could hear the crowd asking if I had called a ball or strike. I quickly found my voice (and moves) for making calls.

What’s your favorite part of working here?

I love bringing my experience to New Mexico. The state is doing some great things to encourage and support locals in the film & TV industry and there is so much more that can be done, especially in the independent film sector. I’m excited for the opportunity this position holds to help grow the industry. Also, I work with some super fantastic people!

What do you do when you’re not working?

I love to play basketball and volleyball whenever I can. I have some nephews who live in Nebraska now, so I also love to join them on Fortnite. I’m a kid at heart I guess!

What do you wish people knew about WESST?

The people at WESST are so knowledgeable and incredible collaborators to help anyone grow and start their business. It is also the home of The Studio at WESST, which is a versatile, full-service film & TV production green screen studio that is available to rent or hire for full production support on your next Film & TV project and marketing materials for your small business.

To learn more about The Studio at WESST, you can submit an inquiry for studio information related to your upcoming project or schedule a tour.