Tom Peckham’s Retiring: Honoring a 40-Year Legacy at AVFX
Today we celebrate a milestone that is both inspiring and emotional. Tom Peckham’s retiring after 40 years with AVFX, marking the close of a chapter that shaped our culture, our standards, and the way we show up for every client and every event. As Tom transitions into retirement, we are proud to share that Sarah Hearn will step into the role of Managing Director in Boston, continuing the leadership path he helped define.
Tom leaves behind a legacy built on curiosity, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to service. His career is woven into the foundation and future of AVFX.
A Career That Grew With the Industry
Tom joined AVFX (then Media 1) in 1982 as our third employee. He programmed multi-projector slide shows, transported gear in a Dodge Caravan, and embraced innovation long before event technology became what it is today.
As the industry evolved from slide and film to video, Tom evolved right along with it. He staged events across the country, learned new systems as they emerged, and programmed our first video wall using 28-inch CRT monitors. He pushed capability forward at a time when the industry was still writing its own rules.
Moments That Defined a Story
Across four decades, Tom worked in ballrooms, museums, theaters, boardrooms, hangars, private homes, campuses, and outdoor venues. His audience has included world leaders, musicians, scientists, innovators, athletes, and nonprofit organizations creating real change.
He heard the Dalai Lama, Colin Powell, and Red Auerbach speak. He supported high-security embassy events. He helped plan the memorial for MIT Police Officer Sean Collier after the Boston Marathon bombing, an event attended by thousands. These moments sit at the heart of our history.
Leadership Rooted in Service
Tom has always reminded us that we work in service to others. We listen first. We solve challenges with care and speed. We help people communicate and create experiences that resonate.
He believes every show matters because for our clients, it does. That mindset is part of who we are. It guides how we plan, how we deliver, and how we treat each other.
A Foundation That Will Always Stay With Us
Tom often shares that meaningful work comes down to the people you do it with. His reflection captures his journey perfectly:
“When you are doing work you enjoy with people you admire, the time flies.”
We admire Tom. We learned from him. We carry forward what he built.
Tom Peckham’s retiring marks the start of a well-earned new chapter for him, and a moment of gratitude for us. Thank you, Tom, for your leadership, your craft, and the heart you brought to AVFX every day.
We wish you joy, adventure, and rest in the next chapter. Your legacy will always be part of who we are.