Innovative gathering focuses on Labs and division strategy

There’s nothing like cruising down the interstate, a fresh breeze blowing through the windows, the stereo blasting and the anticipation of adventures ahead. Sandia’s National Security Programs division recently captured this feeling during a new innovative take on an all-hands meeting by hosting a Road Trip 2024 event to help staff learn more about the Labs strategic plan, the division’s strategic plan, the Labs’ three corporate behaviors — acting courageously, being purpose-driven and connecting with others — and the new performance engagement system, all while networking with each other. The event, hosted by Deborah Frincke, associate labs director for National Security Programs, and division center directors included a coffee bar with “road trip” snacks, and informational tables representing “exits” to visit.

Of course, a road trip wouldn’t be complete without a postcard and souvenir, so staff had the opportunity to recognize their peers with customized event postcards and received a road trip sticker when finishing their journey to commemorate the event.

“We chose the Road Trip event over a typical briefing format to informally engage colleagues in a fun way. It was a pleasure seeing staff connecting with colleagues, asking great questions, and learning more about key elements of our division and Sandia.” Deborah said. “The result was a better connected and informed division.”

The Road Trip 2024 event was organized by National Security Programs Communications Specialists Andrea Mackay and Auri Atencio and attended by staff across the division. A virtual road trip event was launched after the in-person session for staff who work remotely or were unable to attend. The event created a lot of buzz, and the division plans to continue to be innovative with future meetings.