Chris O'Dell's journey through the fireworks industry has been nothing short of remarkable. In less than two years, he went from attending his very first PGI Convention as a newcomer to standing on one of the biggest competitive stages in pyrotechnics at Elevate 2026. Along the way, he built a reputation for creative show design, relentless work ethic, and a willingness to learn from some of the best in the business.
In this episode, Chris shares how a passion that started with simple consumer fireworks quickly evolved into a deep pursuit of the art and science of pyrotechnics. We talk about the mentors who helped shape his journey, the opportunities that accelerated his growth, and what it takes to go from spectator to competitor in such a short amount of time.
We also dive into one of the biggest milestones of his career—working with the Spirit of '76 team to help set up Cosmos, the massive PGI 2024 exhibition display that left thousands of spectators in awe. Chris gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the scale, logistics, and teamwork required to bring one of the convention's signature productions to life.
Perhaps the most meaningful part of our conversation centers on the inspiration behind his Elevate competition show. Chris opens up about the heartbreaking loss of his nephew and how that tragedy became the emotional foundation for a performance that was about far more than competition. It's a powerful reminder that the best pyromusicals don't just entertain—they tell stories, honor memories, and connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
Whether you're just discovering the fireworks hobby or you've been in the industry for decades, Chris's story is proof that passion, humility, and hard work can open doors faster than you ever imagined.
This is the story of one of the fastest rises in modern pyrotechnics—and it's only the beginning.
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