On February 11, 2025, students from Jackson-Reed High School in Washington, D.C., attended an IGNITE Field Trip to the Verizon Technology and Policy Center, hosted in partnership with the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) as part of their Trailblazers Initiative. The event introduced students to the telecommunications industry and the wide range of STEM career paths available.
The day began with welcome remarks from Victoria Weidenthaler, President of WWLF, and Patrick Halley, President and CEO of the Wireless Infrastructure Association. Students then participated in a dynamic panel discussion, Careers in Telecom, Not Just Engineering, moderated by Lauren Goff. Panelists Taylor Sierra, Talisha Germain, Maria Velez, and Michele Cober shared their career journeys, highlighting different opportunities in the industry and the challenges they overcame to achieve success.
Following the panel, students were divided into two groups for hands-on learning experiences. John Long and Ajay Kunapuli led a tour of Verizon’s Technology Lab, showcasing the history of telecommunications, an eight-foot-wide city model, fiber and tower displays, and industry applications in healthcare, safety, and education. Meanwhile, Lynn Whitcher guided students through a Virtual Reality activity, where they explored four different telecom-related jobs through immersive simulations.
A highlight of the trip was a fireside chat with FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez, facilitated by Kathy Grillo, Verizon’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs. This conversation gave students an inside look at policy and leadership within the telecommunications field.
The facility setup and programming provided an engaging experience, giving students the chance to hear personal stories from professionals, explore cutting-edge technology, and gain insights into career opportunities in the industry. The Virtual Reality activity was a favorite among students, as was the chance to interact with enthusiastic WWLF Volunteers and Verizon professionals.
“Today’s event made me feel more comfortable speaking up about inequality in STEM. I haven’t heard much from women of color in these fields before. My favorite thing I learned today was how broad the opportunities are in communications. Before IGNITE, I didn’t know much about this field.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event showed me that no matter how late I start, there is still time to pursue STEM. I left feeling more confident, like there are no limits to my dreams. My favorite thing was learning about the different technology systems and how they’ve evolved over the years. My second favorite was learning how our data travels and the steps it takes.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to keep going with my dreams no matter what challenges I face. It also taught me about the importance of mentors and the benefits they bring. I want to thank the volunteers and panel speakers—they really inspired me to want more for myself.”
11th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event gave me a clearer view of my career and college major. It also inspired and encouraged me to pursue a STEM career. I realized that passion and career don’t always have to be the same—if you follow the clues life gives you, they will lead you to your path.”
11th 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
64%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
75%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“Today’s event inspired me to learn more about the physical aspects of wireless internet. I was especially interested in how much fiber cables can carry at once. My favorite thing I learned today was how to build and fix a cell tower. I just want to thank all the volunteers for being so helpful.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me by opening my mind to seeing Verizon as more than just a cellphone company—it’s a company with amazing people who are helping the community. Some of them really inspired me with their experiences and how they became the people they are today. My favorite thing I learned today was the history of the internet. It was really interesting because I had never thought about how each part of the internet and technology has evolved into what it is today.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“I learned more about the different fields in STEM and how some of them are ‘hidden’ since many people don’t know about them. It was also inspiring to hear how many women found their way into these careers. My favorite part was the talk—it was inspiring. I also really enjoyed the VR set because it was so fun to try.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to work harder in STEM and become more interested in these careers. My favorite thing I learned today is that you can have a variety of interests, and they can still connect to careers like this.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today showed me that it’s okay to step out of my comfort zone and speak up for myself. My favorite parts were the building model and the TED Talk-style presentation.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Laura Lora
- Carolyn Hardwick
- John Long
- Ajay Kunapuli
- Lynn Whitcher
- Beth Yglesias
- Lauren Goff
- Talisha Germain
- Taylor Sierra
- Michele Cober
- Maria Velez
- Michelle Salisbury
- Jennifer Winters
- Rachel Mezler
- 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.