Gregory must be doing something right… and so must HOTELSIGNS.com, because these two now share a 30 year relationship. As the Head of our Information Technology (IT) department, Gregory helps our business run smoothly day-in and day-out. Keep reading to learn more about him.

Where are you originally from, and where do you live now?

In 1987, I made the significant decision to relocate from Clarksdale, MS to Chattanooga, in pursuit of higher education at Tennessee Temple University. This marked a pivotal moment in my life as I embarked on a new chapter filled with academic challenges and personal growth. The transition from one city to another brought with it a sense of excitement and anticipation for the opportunities that awaited me in a new environment. Chattanooga quickly became my home away from home, offering a vibrant community and diverse cultural experiences. Despite the distance from my hometown, I found solace and belonging within the welcoming atmosphere of Tennessee Temple University and the surrounding area. Now, years later, I still reside in Chattanooga, deeply rooted in the fabric of this city. Living just a mere 10 minutes away from the office, I am reminded of the journey I’ve undertaken and the connections I’ve formed along the way. Each day, as I navigate through the bustling streets and familiar landmarks, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me and the sense of belonging that I have found in this vibrant and dynamic city.

How long have you been in the sign industry?

As of March 14, 2024, I have worked for Intersign Corporation (which includes HOTELSIGNS.com) for 30 years – more than half of my life! However, that’s when I officially started working for this company, but I actually did contract work for them before that. I used to create evacuation drawings under contract work before being hired on as a full-time employee. So, it’s more accurate to say that I’ve worked here (or in the sign industry itself) for 31 years.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Working in the IT department provides me with a deeply rewarding experience, as it offers a continual stream of learning opportunities. Each day presents new and diverse challenges that push me to expand my knowledge and skills. Whether it’s troubleshooting a complex technical issue, implementing innovative solutions, or staying updated with the latest advancements in technology, there’s always something to discover and explore. The beauty of this role lies in the constant growth it fosters. Every encounter, whether minor or significant, contributes to my professional development. Even the smallest tasks offer insights and lessons that enrich my understanding of IT systems and processes. Moreover, the dynamic nature of learning keeps me engaged and motivated throughout the day. As I delve into unfamiliar topics or tackle novel problems, time seems to fly by effortlessly. The sense of fulfillment that accompanies each new discovery fuels my passion for IT and drives me to excel in my role. Ultimately, working in the IT department is not just about resolving technical issues; it’s about embracing a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Each day presents an opportunity to expand my horizons, enhance my expertise, and contribute meaningfully to the success of the team and the company as a whole.

What travel accessory can you not do without?

Whenever I travel, I have to have my toiletry bag.

What is your favorite TV show or movie?

I actually don’t have a favorite TV show or movie per se, but there is something to be said for the really good black and white classical movies. These movies quite often have a unique charm about them, characterized by strong storytelling, iconic performances, and a distinct visual style, which I thoroughly enjoy watching. I find value in the cinematic artistry of classic black and white films.

If you had unlimited money and could go anywhere: where would you go and why?

My experiences in Haiti have left a lasting impact on me, fostering a deep connection and compassion for its people. If I had unlimited resources, I would seize the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their lives. My heart is drawn to the struggles faced by the Haitian people, and I am driven by a strong desire to alleviate their hardships and promote positive change. With boundless resources at my disposal, I envision implementing a multifaceted approach to aid Haiti. This could involve initiatives aimed at addressing fundamental needs such as access to clean water, healthcare, education, and sustainable livelihoods. Investing in infrastructure projects, community development programs, and vocational training opportunities would empower Haitians to build brighter futures for themselves and their families. Ultimately, my commitment to serving the marginalized and vulnerable extends beyond Haiti to encompass all those who are oppressed and in need around the world. Through prayer, advocacy, and action, I strive to be a beacon of hope and compassion for the lowly, oppressed, and poor, wherever they may be.

What does a normal day as an IT Manager look like?

It used to be very long days for me, but now that I have two incredible guys working in the IT department with me, the days aren’t as long. However, I stay very busy from the time I get in until I leave for the day. Because not everyone knows what constitutes an IT-related issue, I’m constantly answering questions that aren’t IT-related. But being able to interact with just about everyone in the company is one of the joys of my day.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our featured Sign Artisan of the Month, Gregory Hurskin! If you require assistance with ordering signage, please don’t hesitate to contact us at emailus@hotelsigns.com or (888) 273-8726. Also, remember to keep HOTELSIGNS.com in mind for all of your signage needs.