This August, the Ozmo team gathered in Blacksburg, VA, for the much-anticipated Saturnalia 2024. It was an event filled with excitement, collaboration and the joy of meeting face-to-face, especially for those who had only worked together remotely. With 25 remote Ozmonauts and 50 local employees coming together, the energy was high as teams kicked off the week with the perfect blend of work and play.
A significant moment for Ozmo
This gathering was more than just a fun event — it marked a significant milestone in Ozmo’s journey. For the first time since 2019, Ozmo brought all teams together in person. Ozmo’s shift to a remote talent strategy has expanded our team across various locations, making this event a fantastic chance to unite and celebrate the company’s progress.
Saturnalia wasn’t just about meeting in person; it was about coming together as a team to share ideas, celebrate successes and plan for the future. It was a chance to strengthen bonds and remind Ozmonauts that no matter where we work, we’re all part of the same mission.
Meeting everyone in person at our recent company-wide event was a fantastic reminder of how amazing our team truly is. It’s one thing to work together remotely, but seeing all the talent, energy and camaraderie face-to-face was truly inspiring. Our people are what make this place so special!
Ashlee Wilcox, VP of People Operations at Ozmo
Main event highlights
The day kicked off with a breakfast hosted by OWN (Ozmo Women’s Network), setting a positive tone for what was to come. From there, employees moved to Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium for a company-wide Town Hall; teams took a trip down memory lane, revisiting Ozmo’s history and exploring how our integrations have evolved to make a real-world impact.
As we discussed Ozmo’s mission and strategy for the future, the importance of customer feedback and recent wins was clear. Ozmonauts also took the time to celebrate each amazing team with in-person kudos, recognizing work anniversaries, promotions and announcing the winners of our Galactic Gratitude awards.
But the fun didn’t stop there. Employees split into teams for a GO Game scavenger hunt across the Virginia Tech campus, competing in creative photo and video challenges, head-to-head competitions, clue-based location hunts and trivia. Then, everyone wrapped up the day with a happy hour at Maroon Door, where Ozmonauts gathered with family and friends, making the celebration even more special.
Strengthening bonds beyond the office
Throughout the week, team-building activities played a key role in fostering collaboration and camaraderie. The Product team kicked things off with a scenic hike, while other fully remote teams seized the opportunity to hold in-person sessions that sparked fresh ideas and deeper connections. Some of our more adventurous Ozmonauts took on the challenge of rock climbing, while a cross-department happy hour at Eastern Divide Brewing Company brought teams together for some casual fun and a friendly cornhole competition.
On Friday, the team-building continued with activities at the Virginia Tech Challenge Course, an Arts and Bakes event and a lively field day. These events were more than just a chance to unwind — they were a chance to connect and celebrate our achievements.
Looking ahead: The impact of Saturnalia 2024
Saturnalia 2024 was a true celebration of Ozmo’s culture, growth and the incredible team behind our success. The connections made, the ideas shared and the plans laid out during this gathering will undoubtedly shape our journey ahead.
