Jessica Dominguez is a Director of Exhibitor Services at Shepard. Based out of our Las Vegas branch, she’s been with the company since 2011.
How she got her start: In 2011, when Jessica was just 20 years old and working as a sales representative at a T-Mobile store, she had a memorable encounter with a Shepard employee. The customer had been facing a frustrating issue, but Jessica’s exceptional customer service turned the situation around. Impressed by Jessica’s professionalism and problem-solving skills, the employee encouraged her to apply for an open role at Shepard—and the rest is history.
“At the time, I knew nothing about the events industry, but I decided to take a leap of faith and proceed with the interview,” Jessica remembers. “Fast forward 13 and a half years, I’m proud to say that I now serve as a Director of Exhibitor Services. It’s been an incredible journey filled with growth, challenges, and rewarding experiences.”
What she loves about the event industry: Jessica thrives on the energy and momentum of event move-ins and move-outs. “Everyone is united by a common goal—setting up a successful event—and during move-out, it’s all about breaking everything down and heading home,” she says. “There’s an indescribable adrenaline rush in the fast pace and teamwork these moments demand.”
As for her specific role, Jessica appreciates the opportunity to learn and teach. “Sharing my knowledge with others is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role. Being a leader who provides guidance and solutions is incredibly rewarding, as it helps others succeed both as individuals and as part of the team.”
Why she loves Shepard: Shepard and its leadership team have given her the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, Jessica explains. “Over the years, I’ve had the chance to expand my skill set by moving through various roles—from Customer Service to Operations/Material Handling Supervisor, and now to co-leading a department,” she says. “I always tell new hires, you’re never stuck. If you’re interested in something, and you have a passion for it, speak up!”
How exhibitor service has evolved: In her time on staff, Jessica has seen digital technology significantly transform exhibitor services. “We’ve gone from using handwritten bills of lading to automated documents and modernized processes,” she explains. “Our department has elevated to a whole new level almost overnight thanks to new systems we’ve implemented. These tools allow us to work more efficiently and provide better support to exhibitors.”
How she fosters a customer-centric culture: As a leader, Jessica focuses on building trust, encouraging independence, providing guidance, and being consistently present for her team.
“At Shepard, we embrace what we call Blue Diamond customer service—the idea that everyone is your customer. Whether it’s a neighbor, a partner, or a team member, I treat my employees and peers the same way I would treat a customer—with empathy, understanding, and respectful communication.”
Jessica’s very favorite thing is problem-solving for her customers and colleagues. “I say, ‘I will walk you through, and we’ll figure it out together,’” she says, adding that her Spanish language skills also help her assist customers. “The most rewarding thing is hearing the relief and appreciation in exhibitors’ voices when we help solve their challenges. Providing exceptional customer service and knowing we’ve made their experience smoother is incredibly fulfilling.”
Memorable moments: Through almost 14 years at Shepard, what Jessica cherishes most are the relationships she’s built with her colleagues. “Over time, many of my coworkers have become like family,” she says. “No one truly understands the unique challenges and victories of this industry better than your teammates, and that shared experience creates an unbreakable bond.”
She recalls a tough first-time event where she saw several company executives roll up their sleeves—literally—and get to work, doing things like helping roll carpet and clean up. “We all jumped in, regardless of our titles. We were determined to do the work, support our team, and deliver for the customer,” she recalls. “That’s something I will always cherish.”
How she spends her free time: Jessica thrives on the adrenaline of her day-to-day role but makes a conscious effort to unwind by spending time with her “fur children”—her dogs, Bobby and Bo. After work, she often picks them up and they take the short drive to her mom’s house to cook dinner and watch movies with her family. “It’s a simple, fulfilling way to recharge and connect with family,” she says.
The advice she’d give her younger self: If she encountered her younger self, Jessica says, she actually wouldn’t approach her. “I’d think, keep doing what you’re doing—be authentic and trust the journey. She made the right choices and followed her instincts,” she says. “I’m very proud of young Jessica because she led me exactly where I’m supposed to be.”
