On April 18, 2024, students from Marysville-Getchell High School embarked on an informational journey during IGNITE Worldwide’s Field Trip to T-Mobile headquarters in Washington State. Organized by Melanie Lenahan, Candice Boyd, and Sarah Tole, this event boasted an impressive lineup of industry professionals ready to inspire IGNITE Students. The event featured a panel discussion including Henry Li, Senior Systems and Operations Engineer, Mariel Hartman, Senior Systems Architecture Engineer, Kavita Jaswal, Manager, Service Enablement, and Rebecca Wong, Software Engineer, representing diverse roles within T-Mobile’s team.
Led by Tour Guide Chris Hartinger, the students explored the heart of T-Mobile’s headquarters, immersing themselves in the company’s innovative culture. From traversing the expansive campus to uncovering fascinating tidbits like the record-breaking sky bridge, the excursion was an eye-opening experience. Inside the Business Operations Center, the students gained insights into T-Mobile’s meticulous customer care strategies, discovering firsthand how the company’s dedicated team ensures seamless connectivity and support around the clock.
Venturing further into the realm of wireless communications, the students got a look at the evolution of 5G technology and the rich history of telecommunications. The highlight of the day culminated in a dynamic panel discussion, where industry professionals shared invaluable advice on navigating career paths and fostering curiosity. From emphasizing the importance of extracurricular involvement to championing STEM education, the Panelists’ stories resonated with the students.
As the event drew to a close, the students were treated to lunch and a surprise from T-Mobile—a gift of themed LEGO sets, leaving a lasting impression of this unforgettable day. Through hands-on activities, insightful discussions, and immersive experiences, the IGNITE Field Trip to T-Mobile undoubtedly sparked a newfound sense of inspiration among the participants.
A sincere thank you goes out to our incredible Panelists—Henry Li, Mariel Hartman, Kavita Jaswal, and Rebecca Wong—for generously sharing their time, expertise, and insights with the students of Marysville-Getchell High School. Special appreciation also extends to Chris Hartinger for guiding us through the tour of T-Mobile’s headquarters, and to our organizers—Melanie Lenahan, Candice Boyd, and Sarah Tole—for orchestrating such a memorable experience. Additionally, we extend our thanks to Melissa Dilling for her commitment to empowering students through the IGNITE Program.
After attending this event:
86%
of students are interested in STEM
72%
of students know more about STEM career choices and the benefits of working in a STEM field
72%
of students gained perspective and feel more hopeful about the future
Here’s what the students thought of the event:
“Everyone was very welcoming and opened my eyes up to new opportunities to learn from different perspectives. My favorite thing was learning about the different programs.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event made me see that there are a lot more people behind T-Mobile than the floor workers at the stores.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me, especially when the panelists were talking about their experiences, and that everyone is a person so their schedules are very flexible. My favorite thing was seeing all of the opportunities they have, and that you don’t have to go to college to work in STEM but it’s definitely recommended.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event gave me good information. You can still do a tech job that isn’t science-based. I liked touring the campus.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“I was very inspired by the way T-Mobile employees shared their knowledge in technology and engineering abilities. They provided positive feedback on STEM careers and how they got this far. I was fascinated to learn about the various generations of cellular technology and how it evolved to 5G. As well as their collaboration with Sprint to expand connectivity of calls and texts.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event showed me the luxury as well as the cool tech T-Mobile HQ employees work with. I loved seeing such a comforting and relaxed environment; it looked almost like a college campus. My favorite thing I learned was that people enjoy working here from all walks of life. I also learned formal education is not required to work here.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“Seeing how cool this whole place was was really inspiring. The harder you work, the better work environment you get. I liked seeing the maps everywhere.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“I liked how the staff went into great detail about things, making it easier to understand. The staff was also very nice. I liked learning about how 5G works.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“I really enjoyed the presentation, and the people were really nice. My favorite thing I learned today was in 5G, the G stands for generation.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“I already wanted to pursue a job in STEM, but I wasn’t sure so today’s event helped me with that. My favorite thing I learned today was that there were more jobs in STEM than just tech.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“It gave me more perspectives on STEM-related jobs/careers/activities. My favorite thing about today was how to help and alert the community of how to prepare/watch out for natural disasters and weather-related events.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to learn more about STEM. It’s interesting. Other jobs in tech are available than coding. All the volunteers are cool too :)” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“It gave me more perspective on STEM jobs and opportunities. There are a lot more jobs than I thought. I liked learning how STEM jobs look in the workplace and how you can achieve these opportunities.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me to stay on my schooling and keep going. Everything was amazing.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event really showed how ‘unboring’ and fun STEM can be. This event inspired me to look more into STEM careers. I really enjoyed walking around the company seeing the different rooms and how they are utilized.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event showed me how people ended up here, how they’re still learning, and how it’s okay they’re still learning. I loved looking at the social media part at the beginning of the tour.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
About T-Mobile:
T-Mobile US, Inc. is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Sprint.
About IGNITE Program Field Trip Events:
IGNITE Field Trips offer a memorable, behind-the-scenes look at STEM in action and the wide range of career opportunities at the host company. Company employees interact directly with the students through an office tour, hands-on STEM activities, and IGNITE Panel and Q&A discussion.
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 www.igniteworldwide.org.
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