Amazon’s Think Big Experience inspires Central Ohio’s next generation of tech talent

Amazon brought its signature Think Big Experience to Columbus on October 20–21, giving nearly 1,000 middle school students from Hilliard City Schools and New Albany Plain Local Schools hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technology and career possibilities.

Hosted at COSI, the immersive STEM event allowed students to build AI-powered robots, explore virtual reality applications, and connect directly with successful women in technology. The program was part of Amazon’s ongoing investment in initiatives that spark curiosity and career exploration in fast-growing tech regions like Central Ohio.

Why it matters

As Central Ohio continues to grow into a national tech powerhouse, events like Amazon’s Think Big Experience are helping strengthen the region’s talent pipeline, especially among young women.

“Amazon’s Think Big Experience in Central Ohio represents our commitment to being a good neighbor and using our scale to strengthen communities where our employees live and work,” said Carolyn Jackson, Community Engagement Manager for Amazon Data Centers.

This year marked Amazon’s third Think Big Experience in Ohio and part of a global initiative that has reached more than 21,000 students since its launch in 2018.

The details

Through partnerships with Hilliard City Schools, New Albany Plain Local Schools, COSI, Creative Hut, and Be W.I.S.E., Amazon aligned its education outreach with local needs and priorities.

“At Amazon, we have a leadership principle called ‘Customer Obsession,’ but for my team we like to say we’re ‘community obsessed,’ because we strive to work backwards from the community rather than assuming we know what is needed,” Jackson said. “That’s why building relationships like we are today is so critical.”

Amazon’s data centers across Ohio continue to serve as catalysts for opportunity, creating jobs, boosting household incomes, and driving economic growth.

The company said it is always looking for new ways to bring STEM education opportunities to its communities, whether through large-scale events like Think Big or by participating in existing local programs.

The big picture

From Hilliard to New Albany, Amazon’s presence in Central Ohio continues to expand alongside the region’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem. By combining local partnerships with global reach, the company is helping ensure that the next generation of Ohioans — especially young women — are ready to shape the future of innovation.