Eric Lindholm may be one of the newest members of NIU’s alumni body—he graduated in December with a degree in organizational management — but he’s got plenty of sound experience when it comes to running a business.
Two years ago, Lindholm and his business partner started Sound Works Productions Inc., a company that handles live sound and lighting production for events such as concerts, festivals and corporate meetings.
The idea was born when Lindholm himself was playing with a band. “We bought a small PA system we had no idea how to use,” he says. He soon realized its value. “Some venues were just using us for the system,” Lindholm said. “I saw the business opportunity.”
Lindholm later sold the public address (“PA”) system to a bar, using that money as well as a loan from his grandmother to purchase additional sound equipment. He has since repaid his grandmother and has reinvested a good portion of the money he’s made back into the company.
“It’s a great feeling to be incorporated, licensed and insured,” Lindholm says.
The company has been booked by small, local acts as well as popular bands including Everclear, Tommy Tutone and American English. “Working with bigger acts really confirmed for me that this is where I want to go,” Lindholm said.
Lindholm now plans to focus on growing his business, something that until now has always come second to classes. “School’s always been my No. 1 priority,” he said. “I’m really proud of my degree.”
Still, Lindholm says that juggling work and other responsibilities has never been very difficult. “It comes real easy to me because work is like play.”
- Abby Nall, NIU Public Affairs
- Photo by Jim Womack, NIU Media Services