A captivating experience opening doors to a world of possibilities in STEM based careers.
Thinking Big is a half-day, in-person event for high school students. This unique opportunity allows student to dive into the realm of technology and interactive learning outside of the classroom. This transformative experience will provide students with hands-on activities and workshops led by professionals from diverse backgrounds and industries. The event is designed to establish a pipeline of young talent prepared for future careers with leading organizations. Thinking Big falls under our GiSTEMpact Program.
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THE EXPERIENCE
The overarching purpose of GiSTEM’s Thinking Big Program is to expose youth to STEM-based careers and allow them to engage with industry professionals that are like them. This experience can significantly impact their desire to go into STEM-based careers in adulthood. The ability to pursue these careers tends to lead to more positive economic outcomes, such as higher median earnings and generational wealth in the Greater Richmond region. GiSTEM is on the journey of being the solution to building an equitable future workforce and sustainable pipeline of diverse candidates equipped with technical skills.
"I think the highlight today is being able to introduce kids to the manufacturing sector to see them sort of interact with what we do and how we do it. It's been a really fun event and a great opportunity to meet a lot of people."
- Julie Gannon, VP of Product Development at Smurfit Westrock
Speed Networking
Throughout the event, scholars connect with local universities, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. This provides the Greater Richmond Region with the opportunity to impact and inspire future employees by forging new relationships with learners early in their career decisions.
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Lunch and Learn Keynote
Our keynote speaker will take you through their exciting journey in STEM, sharing how they got started and what the future of the field looks like. They’ll also discuss different ways you can get into STEM, including alternative paths like apprenticeships and more affordable options. Get ready for an inspiring session with practical advice to help you take your first steps into the industry!
"It's all about exposure and access to certain things. Why can't our kids know about those opportunities now so that they can prepare themselves to be in that talent pipeline?"
- Darrell Booker, Corporate Affairs Specialist at Microsoft
Interactive Workshops
Dive into hands-on workshops where you'll engage in real-world experiences and imagine yourself in future careers. This is your chance to explore exciting opportunities right here in Richmond, while learning directly from local industry experts. It’s an inspiring way to connect with your future and discover what’s possible.
Exhibit and Attractions
Scholars are immersed in the wonders of technology and innovation with interactive exhibits and captivating attractions.
Special Giveaways
Scholars will have the chance to score amazing giveaways from our partners, adding even more excitement to this action-packed day. With opportunities to win exclusive prizes, it’s the perfect blend of fun and learning you won’t want to miss!
THINKING BIG 2025 -
Thinking Big with Big Data:
Manufacturing in Healthcare
The manufacturing landscape in healthcare is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements such as 3D printing, automation, and data analytics. These innovations are transforming patient care within the healthcare system, from creating custom prosthetics and developing precise medical devices to streamlining supply chain and production processes. In addition to manufacturing roles, traditional healthcare positions—such as nurses, medical technicians, health information specialists, and insurance professionals—are also being reshaped by digital transformation.
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However, the healthcare system faces a critical shortage of skilled workers in both manufacturing and traditional healthcare roles, making it challenging to meet the growing demand for advanced solutions. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Healthcare Outlook, the global healthcare sector is projected to experience a shortage of 10 million workers by 2030.
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Addressing the skills gap will require cultivating a new generation of talent capable of navigating the intersection of healthcare, manufacturing, and digital transformation. Investing in workforce development and advanced manufacturing education is crucial to meeting these demands, ensuring that innovations lead to better patient outcomes and drive positive growth in the overall healthcare system.
Focus: Manufacturing in healthcare is evolving rapidly, requiring a skilled workforce to meet the rising demand for innovation. These advancements are transforming the industry and improving patient outcomes.
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Audience: Richmond Public Schools (RPS), Petersburg City Public Schools (PCPS) high school students, and new school system(s)*
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Number of students: 400
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Event Date: Monday, October 06, 2025
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Event Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
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Event Location: Dewey Gottwald Center, 2301 West Leigh Street, Richmond, Virginia 23220
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*Students are selected by the school systems.
"It's been really nice to see our high school students, from our comprehensive high schools to our specialty schools, engaging with Microsoft and other companies and learning more about what is happening currently in STEM and how they can use that in their future endeavors."
- Cassandra Bell, Director of RPS Curriculum & Instruction (RPS Partnerships)
Interested in Sponsoring?
Ask us about our sponsorship tiers at info@gisteminc.org! We will follow up with the sponsorship package.
Interested in Volunteering?
Thinking Big's volunteer link will be ready by January 2025. In the meantime, please submit your interest on our general volunteer page.
Want to learn more about the event?
Email LaToya Mayfield at latoya.mayfield@gisteminc.org
Thinking Big 2024 Sponsors
