A captivating experience opening doors to a world of possibilities in STEM based careers.
Thinking Big is a conference-style 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 creating a future workforce by equipping young talent with the skills for success in STEM-based careers.
"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 2026 -
Thinking Big with Big Data:
Sustainability
Sustainability is transforming industries across Virginia. From healthcare and manufacturing to agriculture, finance, and technology, companies are adopting environmentally responsible practices to reduce waste, conserve resources, and meet climate goals. This shift is driving innovation and creating new career opportunities for students.
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Virginia’s clean energy sector is expanding quickly. More than 92,000 jobs now exist in solar, wind, energy efficiency, and clean transportation. Initiatives such as the Virginia Clean Economy Act, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project, and RVAgreen 2050: Climate Action Plan 2030 are increasing demand for skilled workers in renewable energy, sustainable construction, and environmental management. RVAgreen 2050 is Richmond’s official sustainability roadmap, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
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Over the next five years, sustainability-related careers are expected to grow across industries. Roles like renewable energy technicians, environmental analysts, sustainable supply chain managers, and green building consultants are becoming more common. These careers require strong foundations in science, technology, engineering, and math.
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GiSTEM’s Thinking Big Conference introduces high school students to the real-world impact of sustainability. Through hands-on workshops and industry-led sessions, students explore how sustainability connects to innovation and future careers. Virginia’s growing economy and commitment to clean energy make it an ideal place to prepare students for meaningful, future-ready paths.
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Sustainability is shaping Virginia’s future workforce. Now is the time to help students lead.
Focus: Sustainability is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of innovation across industries, requiring a skilled workforce to meet growing environmental and economic demands. From energy and agriculture to construction, transportation, and technology, companies are rethinking how they operate to reduce waste, conserve resources, and improve long-term performance.
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Audience: Greater Richmond High School Students
*If your school system is interested, contact us to see if there's available space.​
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Event Date: Monday, October 05, 2026
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Event Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
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Event Location: TBD
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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?
Check out our sponsorship tiers! If interested, email us at info@gisteminc.org.
Interested in Volunteering?
Sign up to volunteer at Thinking Big 2026! We are excited to have you join us. Check out our opportunities that will be available here.
Want to learn more
Contact us at info@gisteminc.org.
Thinking Big 2025 Sponsors
