Speaking on Business: Thanksgiving Point

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For over 25 years, Thanksgiving Point has been one of Utah’s most beloved destinations, but its mission goes deeper than a fun day out. CEO, McKay Christensen, shares how they’re making hands-on STEM learning accessible to every child in our state. McKay Christensen: In Utah, 31 percent of kids from high-income households will go on to work in higher-paying STEM jobs, while only 7 percent of low-income kids will do the same. Closing that gap means hundreds of thousands of Utah’s kids can lift themselves from the cycle of poverty. And to help, Thanksgiving Point conducts 200 STEM labs and programs each week across its museums and science centers. Our goal is to bring hands-on STEM learning to all Utah’s kids. That’s why children whose families receive SNAP or WIC benefits can visit our STEM labs, museums and science centers for free. We’re building, by the way, a new Children’s Technology Center in Lehi, where the next generation can explore the tech shaping Utah’s future in industries like aerospace and energy and biotech and fin tech. So I guess it’s true, Thanksgiving Point is where curious kids grow. Derek Miller: Thanksgiving Point welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors each year, but its greatest impact is inspiring Utah’s next generation of innovators, problem solvers and leaders. Learn more by visiting ThanksgivingPoint.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 7/30/26