When I spent a week shadowing Montreat’s Facilities Crew, better known as the Aud Crew, I quickly realized just how much work happens behind the scenes to keep the conference center running smoothly. Guests often notice the beautiful mountain views, welcoming facilities, and well-prepared meeting spaces, but many never pay attention to the people responsible for making those experiences possible.
From the moment I arrived each day, the crew would already be hard at work. No two days looked the same. Throughout the week, I helped with trash runs at lodges and facilities, delivered supplies across campus, answered guest questions, and checked restrooms to make sure they were stocked with essentials like toilet paper, soap, and paper towels. While these tasks may seem simple, I learned that they play a huge role in creating a positive experience for every guest who visits Montreat.
One of the biggest projects I helped with was preparing for a fundraising luncheon during the Worship and Music Conference. The crew worked together to set up tables, chairs, and even the place settings, making sure everything was ready before guests arrived. Watching the amount of planning, coordination, and physical work that went into a single event gave me a new appreciation for all the preparation that happens before conferences and special gatherings.
Throughout the week, I also saw how important the Aud Crew is during conferences. They are constantly setting up and resetting spaces, moving equipment, and making sure rooms are ready for the next event. Whether they were preparing stages, rearranging furniture, or responding to last-minute requests, they worked efficiently to ensure attendees could focus on worship, learning, and fellowship without noticing logistics.
I also learned that caring for Montreat means caring for its unique mountain environment. On several occasions, the crew shared stories about cleaning up after black bears that had wandered through campus and scattered trash. When situations like that arise, they respond quickly to restore the area and keep guests safe.
Some of the crew’s most important responsibilities are the ones many people never notice. Before each Summer Worship Series service, they carefully place hymnals and Bibles throughout Anderson Auditorium, so everything is ready for worship. Once the service ends, they collect and store them again, preparing the space for whatever comes next. They also manage lost-and-found items, helping guests reconnect with belongings they may have left behind.
One thing that stood out to me was the crew’s willingness to help wherever they were needed. Whether transporting deliveries across campus, answering questions from guests, or responding to unexpected situations, they approached every task with a positive attitude. Their flexibility and teamwork make them an essential part of Montreat’s daily operations.
Of course, it wasn’t all work. During breaks and slower moments, I got to experience some of the team’s traditions, including a game they call “Shelf Ball.” Whether they were playing a quick game, sharing stories, or listening to music while driving the AUD truck between deliveries, it was easy to see the strong sense of friendship that exists within the crew.
After spending a week alongside the AUD Crew, I gained a much deeper appreciation for everything they do. Their work may happen behind the scenes, but its impact can be seen all across campus. Every clean meeting room, stocked restroom, prepared worship space, and successful event reflects their dedication and commitment to serving others.
The next time I walk through Montreat, I know I’ll notice more than the beautiful scenery and conference spaces. I’ll think about the people working quietly in the background to make every guest’s experience possible. The AUD Crew may not always be in the spotlight, but they are an essential part of what makes Montreat feel like home. They also do pretty amazing things during AV/Aud Olympics.
Olivia Abela is on summer staff as a marketing assistant at Montreat Conference Center. She is from Greenville, SC and attends Lander University as a rising senior. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as doing anything creative.