Breaking Barriers: Chris Hardt on Thriving as a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry
Breaking Barriers: Chris Hardt on Thriving as a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry
In the world of live events, the spotlight is often on the stage—but behind the scenes, it takes a team of dedicated professionals to bring every production to life. At Bay Stage Live, Chris Hardt has been a driving force in that process for the past 15 years, paving the way for women in an industry where they are still outnumbered.
A Woman in a Man’s World
Chris has spent 25 years navigating an industry where being one of the few women in the room is still the norm. Whether on job sites, in meetings, or setting up large-scale productions, she’s seen firsthand how gender bias can play a role.
Chris has never allowed these encounters to hinder her. Instead, she has embraced them as opportunities to grow, becoming even more confident, knowledgeable, and determined to succeed.
Lessons in Overcoming Challenges
Over the years, Chris has developed strategies for handling uncomfortable situations and proving her worth in an industry that hasn’t always been welcoming to women.
Confidence is key – Know your stuff and own your expertise. The more prepared you are, the harder it is for anyone to dismiss you.
Find allies – Surround yourself with people who respect and support you. Having the right team makes all the difference.
Speak up – Don’t be afraid to call out unfair treatment. The more we challenge outdated mindsets, the more progress we make.
Chris hopes her journey inspires other women to pursue leadership roles in male-dominated industries, whether it’s in live events, production, or beyond.
The Growth of Bay Stage Live
Chris’s time at Bay Stage Live has been marked by incredible growth. What started as a company focused primarily on weddings has evolved into a powerhouse for corporate events, large productions, and cutting-edge innovations.
BSL was the first company in the area to introduce LED video walls, a game-changing technology that has become a staple in live events.
75% of Bay Stage Live’s business comes from repeat clients, a testament to the strong relationships they’ve built over the years.
As a women-owned business, BSL continues to push boundaries and prove that women belong in every part of the industry.
Lighting the Way for the Next Generation
For International Women’s Week, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women like Chris Hardt, who continue to break barriers and redefine leadership in their fields.
To the next generation of women stepping into male-dominated spaces—we see you, we support you, and we encourage you to own your place at the table.