On February 6, 2025, IGNITE Students from Jackson-Reed High School participated in a dynamic Field Trip Event to the AWS Skills Center in Arlington, VA, where they explored careers in cloud technology through an immersive, hands-on experience.
Led by Gerry Brooks, the day began with a guided tour of the AWS Skills Center, followed by an engaging scavenger hunt in the Cloud Discovery Space. The interactive exhibits introduced students to key concepts in cloud computing while encouraging them to problem-solve and collaborate. Students had fun exploring the space and deepening their understanding of how AWS cloud technology powers the world around them.
During the visit, students also heard from Panelists Trung Ngo and Meghan Sullivan, who shared insights into their career journeys, the wide variety of roles available in cloud technology, and how students can begin exploring paths into STEM and tech.
“I was really inspired by the female Panelists and their stories. They made me hopeful for my future and my career in STEM. I enjoyed learning about AWS and their diverse job opportunities. I want to thank the volunteers for taking the time to teach us about AWS.”
11th Grade IGNITE Student
“The speakers were very impactful and influential about being in a STEM-related job. They made me feel comfortable being a woman in STEM, especially a woman of color. It was interesting to hear the data on women of color in STEM. I also really loved learning about jobs in different work areas.”
12th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
100%
INTERESTED IN STEM
83%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
81%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
86%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“This event helped inspire my career path. I feel confident. My favorite thing was learning about people’s careers at Amazon. I appreciate their time.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because it broadened my horizons to different fields. It also inspired me because I now know what I want to do in the future. I learned about the different career paths I can take.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because it made me more confident pursuing a career in STEM as a female. It also opened me up to new career options within STEM. My favorite thing I learned today was about generative AI. Thank you to the volunteers! I really appreciated all of their advice!” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“I was opened up to new opportunities while hearing inspirational personal experiences. There were very interactive and interesting activities and presentations. My favorite thing was hearing from the speakers and getting advice from their experience. I’m very thankful to the volunteers who participated!” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event showed me the number of jobs I could do in the future. The women who spoke showed that even though there is a large gap in women in STEM, you can still be successful. My favorite thing I learned about was the racing sim. I love video games and racing sims, and it also related to the cloud!” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“I didn’t really know what the different jobs were, but now I know more about the pathways I can take. I still don’t know exactly what job I want, but I have a better idea of different roles. I enjoyed learning about the world map and all the different data sets. It was cool to see all the information and how it’s advanced.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Trung Ngo
- Meghan Sullivan
- Gerry Brooks
- Regina McClure
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.