Adam Ruppel’s passion, creativity and dedication have transformed the events industry. A 1997 graduate from Durham College’s (DC) Business – Human Resources program, he began his career in event management from the corner of his bedroom, founding Chico Racing. For the past 30 years, Adam has been at the helm of this company, producing the largest 24-hour mountain bike event in North America, the 24 Hours of Summer Solstice, held at Albion Hills Conservation Area. Adam also co-founded Mud Hero in 2011 and the Drive Festival in 2021, a three-day outdoor automotive exhibition at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park attracting over 30,000 attendees annually.
During this year’s Fall Convocation, Adam was invited to share words of wisdom and inspiration with the Class of 2024 as a guest speaker. We caught up with him to hear the inside scoop on his experience at DC, his life now, and for his advice to new grads.
How did your education in human resources propel you into a career in event management?
I chose the Business – Human Resources program as I felt it was challenging and offered me more structure, something I tend to miss a bit, but I think I always wanted to be an entrepreneur first and foremost. During my time as a student at DC, I found and have retained great relationships with faculty, employees and contractors.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
There is no typical work day, which is what I like. I generally try to get tasks done based on my lists, but what I like most about event management is the on-site work. For most of my events, the on-site work is between 10 and 20 per cent of the actual workload; meaning the other aspects of running a business – research, human resources, financial planning, marketing and logistics – take more of my time. I also really enjoy and developing new ventures. I recently shut down one of my companies and I will be building something new hopefully in the next few years.
What would you say to someone considering taking the Business – Human Resources program?
It’s a great opportunity to get a skillset that is in demand. For me, I took the business program to get more experience and a different perspective.
This spring, you received DC’s Alumni of Distinction award. What did that recognition mean to you?
I am humbled to have received this award. I just set out to do great work and build events that fit with my passion. I have made many mistakes along the way and I hope my best work is still ahead of me.
What is your favourite memory or lesson from DC?
I think it was presenting to a class about marketing and event management. I had started my business and it was inspiring to see other classmates interested in what I was doing.
What is your advice to new graduates?
There has to be more to life than just working. In North America we seem to be obsessed with financial success and our careers taking over our lives. If you find a passion in life and in what you are doing, you’ll likely be more content and satisfied. I have tried to blend my passion and business, and for the most part it has worked out.
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