Theatre alumnus Dylan Bomgardner helped light the way for Metallica’s M72 World Tour

When Metallica fans start jumping at the band’s M72 World Tour concert on the Virginia Tech campus on May 7, part of their experience will be the stage lighting that College of Architecture, Arts, and Design theatre alumnus and lighting designer Dylan Bomgardner M.F.A. '18 helped create.

Bomgardner, currently a senior product specialist for Group 1440 Inc., had the opportunity to support the Metallica project while working with Claypaky, which develops professional lighting systems for entertainment venues and architectural sites. He participated in the early specification and support phase for the stage lighting design, contributing to support drawings and troubleshooting. Ultimately, the band ended up with 48 of the firm’s light fixtures in the traveling rig that will be coming to Blacksburg.

Bomgardner credits his success as both an artist and a professional to the foundational experiences that distinguished his time as a Hokie. “Virginia Tech was more than just an academic experience; it was a journey of self-discovery,” he said.

“The faculty instilled in me the belief that I could carve out a unique space for myself in the world of lighting. I learned how to merge my passion with professional purpose, and this combination has shaped every step of my career since then. The lessons I learned, the relationships I built, and the confidence I gained have been foundational in my success.”

Bomgardner shared more insights about his experiences in the theatre program, the influence of faculty, the evolution of his career, and advice for current students — as well as some of his favorite lighting design projects.

How did Virginia Tech influence you?

Virginia Tech was a defining chapter in my life, one that had a profound impact on my personal and professional growth. Before attending, I knew I had a passion for lighting, but I felt uncertain about the direction I wanted to take within the industry. That changed as I studied under the mentorship of John Ambrosone and the remarkable faculty and staff in the School of Performing Arts. Their guidance, expertise, and unwavering support opened my eyes to the vast possibilities within the field of lighting design, production, and technology.

What is your fondest memory of your Virginia Tech experience?

Some of my fondest memories revolve around sitting beside my advisors in the studio or the theatre. Exploring new ideas, collaborating on creative solutions, and experimenting with different technical approaches shaped my experience. The energy in those moments was invigorating. Every project felt like a new adventure, and the ability to push boundaries alongside such inspiring mentors is something I’ll always cherish. Those moments of creativity and collaboration are the ones I hold closest to my heart.

What has your career path been like? How did you end up where you are?

My career journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster, but in the best possible way. After graduating from Virginia Tech, I landed a full-time position at Available Light Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts, which is the company I interned for during my final year at Tech. I started as a designer in the Special Events and Trade Show Division and advanced to an associate designer position.

The pandemic brought unexpected changes to the live events industry. I adapted by diving into architectural and exhibit lighting. I worked on the lighting designs for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the National Museum of Military Vehicles in Dubois, Wyoming. I also contributed to the initial design of the Lincoln Memorial Undercroft.

In 2022, I joined Group 1440 Inc. as their senior product specialist. I serve as the bridge between industry designers and the manufacturer, working closely with the research and development team to create new lighting fixtures and improve existing ones.

I have had the privilege of collaborating with Broadway and award-winning architectural designers and legendary bands, such as Metallica, the Scorpions, and Coldplay. Every twist and turn of my career has been exciting, and I accredit it to the mentorship, support, and encouragement I received from the School of Performing Arts faculty.

Who or what inspires you and why?

My greatest inspiration in the lighting industry comes from nature itself. Light is an essential part of life, and, without it, life wouldn’t exist. As a lighting professional, my role is to understand the behavior of light, how it interacts with its surroundings, and how it shapes the world we see. Every day, I find myself captivated by the natural light outside my window, especially how it dances across the cherry trees. It’s never the same. Each day brings a new story, a new mood. In spring, it’s a play about renewal and life. In summer, it feels like a musical celebrating the harmony of all living things. Fall transforms the scene into an opera about the fading of life. Winter is like a dance of quiet solitude.

Light is constantly changing and evolving, just like humans are. That ever-changing, fluid quality of light in nature continually inspires me and shapes the way I approach my work.

Any advice for current students?

My advice to current students is to embrace every opportunity to learn something new. Be open to experiences, even those that may seem outside your immediate interests. Also, never pass up the chance to meet new people. Connections are incredibly valuable in this industry and can open unexpected doors.

Never settle for "just okay." Push yourself to go beyond the basics, challenge the status quo, and strive for excellence. Most importantly, never stop learning. The entertainment industry is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt and find creative solutions will set you apart. Stay curious, stay passionate, and keep pushing your boundaries.