Trailblazing together: Colleagues connect while conquering Southern California’s scenic paths

Southern California has no shortage of scenic places to explore. From the serene ocean to rugged mountains, there is a part of nature for everyone to enjoy. For one group of Thermo Fisher Scientific colleagues, the region serves as their perfect backdrop to connect outside of work, immerse themselves into all the area has to offer and engage in outdoor activities together. 
 
In 2021, members of the Molecular Research and Development team in the Transplant Diagnostics business set out to appreciate that natural beauty by hiking local trails together. Based in West Hills, Calif., a suburb just north of Los Angeles, the work colleagues had returned to the office after the COVID-19 pandemic and were looking for a creative way to reacclimate themselves to the in-person environment.  

"The hikes started about three years ago after the lockdowns. This was a way to connect with colleagues we had not seen in person for quite some time and help ease the transition back into the office," said Alexandre “Sasha” Vlassov, director, Research and Development, who is a longtime avid hiker.

It didn’t take long to recognize that this was the perfect opportunity to not only immerse themselves in nature but also reconnect. Trekking their way through Malibu Creek State Park and other scenic trails, the group was soon reaping a bounty of benefits from their jaunts – fresh air, teambuilding, connections and of course, a surge in endorphins from the physical activity. The outdoor adventures provided a unique opportunity to bond beyond the office walls, paving the way for more meaningful interactions and a stronger sense of camaraderie.

Nature’s networking

With a nod to their adventurous spirit, the group has proudly named themselves the “Transplant Diagnostics Trailblazers.” This fun and fitting nickname reflects the group’s leadership in establishing this monthly event, their determination to sustain it over the past few years, their sense of unity and their desire to explore and discover new challenges – and new colleagues.

 

"When you're out on a trail, away from the office, it’s amazing how quickly you can connect with your colleagues,” said Jo Davis, global market development manager. “The natural setting makes it easy to relax and have real conversations, share stories and build trust. It’s these shared experiences that help us get to know each other better and work together more effectively when we’re back on site.” 

Since Research and Development Scientist Alison Glazier spends most of her workday in the lab, she has limited interaction with other West Hills colleagues. For her, these hikes have been pivotal to her sense of belonging.

"Meeting colleagues outside of work and getting to know them on a personal level has been incredibly enriching. You learn about their families, their hobbies and even their pets. It’s a side of people you don’t get to see when you’re focused on work tasks," she said.

Since its founding, the group has grown in both size and ambition.

"Sometimes we choose easy, family-friendly trails where colleagues bring their spouses and children.” Sasha said. “Other times, we opt for strenuous hikes that test our limits. It’s all about balance and inclusivity."

 

Some of the more challenging hikes have included Rocky Peak in nearby Simi Valley, a 5.6-mile trail with elevation gains of more than 1,400 feet. Treks with lower elevations and smoother terrain, like Victory trail in Woodland Hills, are the perfect opportunity for families and pets to join.

Peak performance

While hiking remains their core activity, the Transplant Diagnostics Trailblazers have also ventured into other activities. "We tried horseback riding, and Alison is proposing windsurfing classes next," Sasha added. 

 

They hope to inspire colleagues at other Thermo Fisher sites to embrace the outdoors together. For now, the Trailblazers continue to lace up their boots and trek on, one trail at a time, leaving their imprints on nature – and each other.

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