MIAMA Member Spotlight: Brian Christianson – Apple Valley Sports Arena and Hayes Park Arena

Name: Brian Christianson

Organization Name: Apple Valley Sports Arena and Hayes Park Arena

Address: 14452 Hayes Road

City: Apple Valley       State: MN        Zip: 55124

Email: bchristianson@cityofapplevalley.org
Phone #: 952-953-2367

Website: http://www.ci.apple-valley.mn.us/index.aspx?nid=476

 

Tell us how you got into the industry?

I started working part-time as a Driver at the Orono Ice Arena while in college.

 

How many years have you been in the ice arena industry?

12

 

What is the best part about working in an ice arena?

I get to work where a lot of people come to spend their free time. It is great to be able to work at a place that people enjoy and look forward coming to as customers and employees.

 

Using one word, name one thing you love about working at a rink?

Unpredictable

 

Nobody’s perfect in this industry. Tell us your worst experience at a rink so far?

Main hydraulic line burst on the resurfacer when putting the conditioner down starting a resurface. We had to get machine off the ice and attach a cable to the I-beam to get the box up to work on the broken line.

 

What are the first three things you do when you get to the rink each day?

Check email, voicemail, and ice schedule, then take a walk around the arenas.

 

How do you feel ongoing professional development is helping you and your career?

Professional development has made me a better manager. Whether is it managing the facilities or my staff, I wouldn’t be where I am without ongoing professional development.

 

How would you explain to the average hockey parent how the ice resurfacer works to resurface the ice?

There is a very sharp blade in the conditioner that cuts the ice, augers bring the snow up to the box and hot water is laid down behind the conditioner to create the smooth surface for them to skate on.

 

Who would you like to acknowledge for helping (mentoring) you along the way?

Shayne Ratcliff, he gave me the opportunity to work in and learn about every aspect of the arena business. He taught me a lot and showed me this can be a very rewarding and exciting career path.

 

What is the best tip you have learned from any of the classes offered through MIAMA?

Problems are going to happen. Slow down and take a minute to assess what has happened and figure out the best way to solve that problem.

 

 

Jon Balvance

MIAMA Communications Director

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