Who We Are
Good people make better events.
Upstream is a team of producers, technicians, planners, and problem-solvers who care about making events work well for the people in the room and the people behind the scenes.
We bring together deep technical experience, a planner-first mindset, and a practical approach to production. That means clear communication, thoughtful planning, well-supported crews, and technology that helps the event instead of getting in the way.
We believe the best events come from good partnerships, good people, and a team that is genuinely invested in getting it right.
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Mark Laforest
CEO & Founder
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David Bullock
Technical Production Manager
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David Berryman
Production Operations
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Chris Ferris
Production Manager
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James Thorpe
Production Manager
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Ashley Craven, CMP
Growth Lead
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Bryce MacDiarmid
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Get to Know Us
Mark Laforest
CEO & Founder
Mark is the CEO and founder of Upstream AV, with a long-standing career in the audiovisual and live events industry. Combining deep technical expertise with a strong background in technology and production, Mark is recognized as a leader in the evolution of hybrid meetings and accessible event experiences. His work is grounded in the belief that technology should remove barriers to participation and create meaningful connections for audiences, regardless of location.
Having worked with major technology companies such as Shopify, Mark brings a strategic and innovative approach to event production. He has a particular passion for livestreaming, accessibility, and designing scalable hybrid experiences that maintain high production value while supporting seamless engagement across in-person and virtual environments.
Mark is driven by the idea that the future of events is flexible, inclusive, and audience-focused. Through Upstream AV, he continues to help organizations rethink how meetings and conferences are delivered—creating experiences that prioritize accessibility, reliability, and human connection alongside technical excellence.
Mark Laforest
CEO & Founder
Mark is the CEO and founder of Upstream AV, with a long-standing career in the audiovisual and live events industry. Combining deep technical expertise with a strong background in technology and production, Mark is recognized as a leader in the evolution of hybrid meetings and accessible event experiences. His work is grounded in the belief that technology should remove barriers to participation and create meaningful connections for audiences, regardless of location.
Having worked with major technology companies such as Shopify, Mark brings a strategic and innovative approach to event production. He has a particular passion for livestreaming, accessibility, and designing scalable hybrid experiences that maintain high production value while supporting seamless engagement across in-person and virtual environments.
Mark is driven by the idea that the future of events is flexible, inclusive, and audience-focused. Through Upstream AV, he continues to help organizations rethink how meetings and conferences are delivered—creating experiences that prioritize accessibility, reliability, and human connection alongside technical excellence.