Inside the Basket - Tracey Hawkins, Balloon Fiesta Sponsorship Sales Assistant

As Balloon Fiesta’s Sponsorship Sales Assistant, Tracey Hawkins helps with a variety of tasks, including processing the contracts of sponsors and assisting with pin designs.

In this month’s Inside the Basket, Tracey talks more about how she became involved with the organization, the most challenging aspects of her job and how those interested in sponsorships can get involved.

1. Give a brief overview of your position with Balloon Fiesta.

I am currently the Sponsorship Sales Assistant here at Balloon Fiesta. I have been in this position for about three months and I complete different tasks ranging from processing contracts of sponsors, to assisting with pin design, and many other responsibilities.

2. How did you become involved with the organization?

After I retired from Albuquerque Public Schools, I wanted to be more involved with hot-air balloons as I have always had a passion for them. I was lucky enough to grow up with Dick and Judi Rice and their family and I learned ballooning from a young age. It was with Dick and Judi that my first balloon flight was had on the beautiful Windsong. Dick helped put me in contact with Balloon Fiesta and Sam Parks (AIBF Director of Operations), and I was lucky enough to work part time beginning in the Summer of 2021.

3. What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Learning all of the details! There are many aspects of Sponsorship which makes it fun and challenging at the same time.

4. What is your favorite part of your job?

Since I started at Balloon Fiesta, I have always enjoyed the staff here. That is a huge reason why I am now a full time employee. They are a good bunch of people to work with!

5. What opportunities are there for those interested in being sponsors of Balloon Fiesta and how can they find more information?

We have so many ways to become a Sponsor! From a balloon banner that flies above the field for all to see, to signage around the park promoting your company, we have it all. Information can be found on our website: balloonfiesta.com, under the “Sponsors” tab, or calling 821-1000 and asking for the Sponsorship department.