Ford Field

Our class took a field trip to Ford Field, where we received an in-depth, behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium and its event operations. During the visit, we learned firsthand what goes into preparing for an NFL game day, including safety and risk management procedures that ensure a secure fan experience. We were also introduced to the stadium's potential use of on-site TSA screening, which would allow teams to leave directly for the airport and board flights immediately after games, showcasing the efficiency required at the professional level. In addition, we learned about the rapid event changeover process, where staff transition the field and stadium setup for events such as community carnivals, concerts, and major sporting events like the MAC Championship. One of the most memorable moments was stepping inside the Detroit Lions locker room, where the staff surprised us with personalized nameplates for every student, allowing many of us to fulfill a lifelong dream. Overall, this experience provided invaluable insight into large-scale event management, operations, logistics, and career opportunities within professional sports.