5 Tips To Make the Most of GHC ’24

Whether you have been before or are going for the first time, follow these tips to prepare for this year’s Grace Hopper Celebration.

Sept. 9, 2024 | By Jaime Winkel

Did you know that GHC is the largest gathering of women and nonbinary technologists? It may seem overwhelming with 30,000 participants, 600-plus speakers and 425-plus sessions—but in the best way! That’s why we’re sharing what we’ve learned over the years to help you get the most out of your experience.

For the second year in a row, we’re bringing our action-based inclusion workshop, “Discover and Activate Your Personal Brand,” to the stage at Grace Hopper Celebration on Oct. 9 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., along with TEKsystems’ leaders Shadene Pinnock and Michelle Webb. We are also debuting a leadership panel, “Navigating Me to We,” on Oct. 10 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m., featuring Samira Bakhtiar (AWS), Caitlyn Brazill (Per Scholas) and Dr. Kiesha King (T-Mobile).

Prepping for GHC ’24:

1. Download the GHC 2024 app. This comes in handy when you’re planning which sessions to attend. You’ll get access to speakers, a map of the convention and more. You can also connect directly with other attendees.
2. Bring your ID! This year, GHC is requiring ID verification for both in-person and virtual attendees to ensure event safety. Make sure you have proper documentation.
3. Wear comfortable shoes. There are a lot of sessions. And you may be speed-walking from one building to another. The last thing you want is fatigued feet!
4. Pick your must-see sessions and get in line EARLY. Prioritize the sessions you are most excited about and arrive at the meeting place 30 minutes early. Sessions fill up fast, and they are first come, first serve!
5. Plan your schedule in advance. Map out your day the night before. Leave some time in between to make it to your next session and have backups ready in case your first choice is full.
6. Introduce yourself to attendees and speakers. This is a great networking opportunity! Don’t forget to connect with others on LinkedIn.