Students posed for a photo in front of the festival’s main stage while on their exclusive festival grounds tour.
AEG Presents, in collaboration with the City of San Francisco and Non Plus Ultra, hosted a select group of students and young professionals for its College Connection Program at the Portola Music Festival, a hands-on, day-long experience designed to inspire and empower the next generation of live entertainment professionals.
Participants were given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of San Francisco’s most dynamic music festivals. The day included guided tours of the festival grounds led by Goldenvoice’s Director of Festival Operations, Tim Le, an industry panel featuring executives from AEG, Goldenvoice, and the San Francisco Entertainment Commission, and speed mentoring sessions with professionals from departments such as merchandise, partner activations, sales, and production.
The day included guided tours of the festival grounds led by Goldenvoice’s Director of Festival Operations, Tim Le.
“The College Connection Program at Portola is about opening doors and showing students that there’s a place for them in live music — not just as fans, but as contributors and future leaders,” said Twana Simmons, DE&I Business Partner, AEG Presents. “By connecting students with mentors, reviewing resumes, and even hiring participants on the spot, we’re helping them see what’s possible and giving them the tools to step into this industry with confidence.”
Michael Ilves, Senior Director of Festivals at Goldenvoice, spoke with students interested in careers in live entertainment.
Over lunch, students had the opportunity to network with panelists and peers, followed by one-on-one resume reviews led by AEG Presents’ HR team. The impact was immediate — 13 students were hired to join the Portola Festival team in roles spanning box office, marketing, and guest services.
Participants were given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of San Francisco’s most dynamic music festivals.
AEG Presents’ College Connection Program reflects the company’s commitment to education, workforce development, and inclusive access in live entertainment. By offering real-world experience, mentorship, and direct pathways to employment, the initiative is helping shape the future of music and events—one student at a time.
Students heard from an industry panel featuring executives from AEG, Goldenvoice, and the San Francisco Entertainment Commission.
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Students had the chance to participate in speed mentoring sessions with professionals from departments such as merchandise, partner activations, sales, and production.
