Carter Tennyson Transforms Passion into Profession
Carter Tennyson, a rising junior at UNC Charlotte, has successfully turned his love for motorsports into a thriving career in media. From capturing images of cars at local gatherings to establishing his own media company, Tennyson currently works in social media management and production for The Garage Shop. He attributes much of his professional growth to the education and connections he has made while pursuing his marketing degree at the university.
Early Days in Motorsports Photography
Tennyson’s journey began in high school during a Cars and Coffee event that featured around 300 vehicles. Armed with a camera, he spent the day photographing cars and networking with their owners. This initial experience laid the groundwork for a car photography business that he maintained throughout his middle and high school years. After relocating to Charlotte, Tennyson developed relationships with several professional racers, facilitating his entry into the motorsports sector.
The Influence of UNC Charlotte
Reflecting on his time at UNC Charlotte, Tennyson emphasized the role of the university in equipping him with essential business skills. He noted that many of his close friends shared a passion for cars, and this camaraderie evolved into a larger community of approximately 200 automotive enthusiasts. These friendships and shared interests significantly influenced the trajectory of his business.
Skills Developed at University
During his four years at UNC Charlotte, Tennyson acquired a diverse skill set, but he highlighted the importance of mastering the creation of pitch decks and presentations. He noted that effective communication, whether through visual presentations or social media content, has been crucial in running his own business. The foundational skills he developed at the university have proven invaluable as he navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship.
The Evolution of Velocity Media
Initially, Tennyson founded Velocity Media to serve as a comprehensive resource for drivers and teams needing media coverage. The company provides video, photography, and hybrid coverage for various racing series, including IndyCar, IMSA, and NASCAR. Tennyson aims to streamline the media process by delivering all necessary services under one roof, allowing clients to retain full ownership and usage rights of the content produced.
Joining The Garage Shop
Tennyson’s connection with The Garage Shop began when a friend shared a social media post about the company seeking a social media manager. After reaching out to co-owner Tony Brown and sharing his resume and portfolio, Tennyson secured the position and has been managing their social media ever since.
Experiencing Unique Projects
Currently, Tennyson is involved in the restoration of a vehicle featured in the film “Talladega Nights.” He described the differences between circuit racing and land speed racing, noting that each day presents new projects and challenges. He expressed excitement about discovering unique details of the restoration, including personal messages left in the car, which highlight its authenticity.
Advice for Aspiring Media Professionals
As a young alumnus, Tennyson encourages current UNC Charlotte students aspiring to enter the media field or launch their own businesses to prioritize networking. He pointed out that opportunities to connect with industry professionals, such as career fairs offered by the university, are often overlooked, yet can significantly influence future career prospects.
Source: UNC Charlotte
