Drew Craven is a multifaceted individual whose career spans both the mechanical engineering world and the vibrant realm of music. As the manager of the up-and-coming band Pretoria and a designer at a furniture company, Craven embodies the rare blend of technical prowess and creative passion.
From Engineering to Music Management
After graduating from Grand Valley University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Drew Craven initially found his professional footing in the furniture industry. His expertise lies in structure and fabric development, areas where he applies his engineering skills to craft stylish and functional designs. Yet, Craven’s career took an exciting turn during his junior year of college. It was in a marketing class that he met Josh, the guitarist of Pretoria. Their shared project work and friendship led to an invitation to join the band’s management team. For Craven, the decision was a no-brainer, especially after hearing Pretoria’s song “Gently” introduced to the class. The blend of music and management offered an exhilarating new challenge.
Juggling Dual Careers
Drew’s typical workday is a balancing act between his 9-to-5 job designing furniture and his 5-to-9 stint managing Pretoria. His dedication to both roles is evident, but it’s his work with Pretoria that truly ignites his passion. He plans to stay with the band long-term while also entertaining the possibility of collaborating with some of his favorite artists on special gigs. In his role as manager, Craven employs Instagram as his primary tool for marketing and fan engagement. He understands the nuances of various social media platforms and tailors his strategies accordingly. While Instagram works well for connecting with fans and the music community, he acknowledges that platforms like Twitter and TikTok serve different music genres better.
The Joy of Growth and Connection
Craven’s favorite aspect of managing Pretoria is witnessing the band’s growth from their early days to their current success. The personal connections he’s formed with the band members and the progress they’ve made together bring him immense pride. He especially enjoys the fan reactions to new demos and is particularly fond of the unreleased track “Corbell Huff.” Beyond his professional life, Drew is a sports enthusiast who enjoys playing soccer and basketball, albeit with a humorous acknowledgment of his less-than-stellar skills. His background in NHS, robotics, and marching band leadership has uniquely prepared him for his role in management. His type-A personality ensures that everyone in the band has clear roles and schedules, contributing to the team’s efficiency and success.
A Memorable Milestone
One of the standout moments in Drew’s management career was opening for GroupLove at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University. For Craven, a longtime fan of GroupLove, this experience was both surreal and thrilling. Performing in front of 5,000 people, the largest audience Pretoria had played for at that time, was a milestone he cherishes deeply.
A Passion for Music and Community
Drew’s enthusiasm for music extends beyond his work with Pretoria. He loves attending shows with the band and discovering local talent in cities like Chicago and Michigan. His top artists include Future Misters, Worry Club, and The Strokes, reflecting his diverse musical taste. In summary, Drew Craven’s life is a testament to the seamless integration of technical skill and artistic flair. Whether he’s designing furniture or managing a rising band, his commitment to excellence and passion for music define his career. As he continues to support Pretoria and explore new opportunities in the music industry, Drew remains a dynamic figure in both his professional and personal pursuits.
Written by Mckenzie Blasi
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