There is something incredibly special about bringing people together—especially when those people are the talented, hardworking team that makes Cognitiv what it is. Last week, we had the chance to do just that at our Vegas All Hands. And wow, did the team show up.

From the bright lights of the Strip to the even brighter energy of our city-wide scavenger hunt, Cognitiv’s All Hands was not solely about business goals but also about connection, celebration, and creating memories that remind us why we love what we do.

The Power of Community in the Workplace

If you ask me, your first Cognitiv All Hands? A shock to the system. Your second? Pure magic.

Having now experienced two All Hands, I can confidently say there is nothing quite like it. The first one hits you like a whirlwind—you are trying to take everything in: the people, the energy, the sheer scale of it all. But the second is when the magic really sets in. You know what to expect, yet somehow it still surprises you. You come away with a deeper appreciation for the people you work with every day and the incredible company we are building together.

We have always known that great things happen when people feel connected. This year’s Vegas All Hands was a powerful reminder of that. Whether we were sharing ideas, strategizing for the future, or just catching up over In-N-Out, every moment reinforced how much we thrive as a team. Those bonds strengthen our ability to collaborate and ultimately enable us to serve our incredible clients at the highest level. 

Let’s be honest—virtual calls and Slack work for day-to-day communication, however, nothing quite beats the spark of an in-person conversation. This trip was filled with those moments, from impromptu house competitions and poker tournaments to on-the-fly discussions that are already having day-to-day implications the week following.  

Unforgettable Moments

Vegas gave us a glitz and glamour backdrop, but our team truly shined bright. Here are just a few highlights:

• Run GPT took home the gold for our 2024 House Cup! Although I think my house, Gaussbusters, had the most heart, Run GPT won fair and square…this time.
• Our Founder’s Award Winners were recognized for their incredible contributions to Cognitiv. A huge congratulations to Lance Bowley, Mohsen Kheirandishfard, Jennifer Newman, Mark Takatsuka, Dani Swanson, and Casey Anderson for all of their hard work!
• Of course, an All Hands is not complete without the content. Each department shared their accomplishments and gained alignment on their objectives for the first half, along with the details of plans on how to achieve them, giving us a running start to crush it in 2025, delivering advanced performance, powered by deep learning. 

A Night to Remember

What happens in Vegas does not have to stay in Vegas—especially when it is a night like ours! We capped off a day of content with a gorgeous dinner and celebration at Giada, where The Voice runner-up, Ricky Duran, serenaded us with his unforgettable live music. It was the perfect way to celebrate everything we have achieved and everything to come.

The Lasting Impact of the All Hands Meeting

These events remind us that no matter how innovative our technology or how ambitious our goals, it is the people who make it all possible.

The buzz after the event was all about connection and gratitude. Our team members say it best:

“It's been said, but deserves repeating - This company is special. I've never experienced a better All Hands. Everyone's presentations were so fun and engaging. I loved the pecha kuchas and getting to meet and hang out with so many of you incredible people. Huge thanks to everyone for putting it all together! I hope everyone gets home safely, and can't wait to see you all next time!” - Edgar, Campaign Manager

“I've never been a part of a company that hosts All Hands quite like these.  Like many others, I also wish to express my gratitude to those who put this together.  Thank you!” - Ben, Senior Software Engineer, RTS

“I have to say that I have been to many All Hands meetings in my career. They usually consist of days on days sitting in rooms, taking notes whilst stifling yawns and hiding hangovers. Cognitiv's are far and away the best. Coggys know how to work and play hard. Love being part of this esteemed group of colleagues.” - Stacey, Senior Account Executive 

“A literal mic drop of an All Hands with best-in-class humans. Thank you to everyone who made it so spectacular! (Let's never do Vegas again, respectfully)” - Jenny, RVP, Sales, West

“Best week ever!! Thank you everyone for making it a memorable birthday celebration. This has to be one of the greatest groups of friends and coworkers I’ve ever had. Safe travels back.” - Vivi, Senior Director of Client Services 

Keeping the Momentum Alive

As we return to our desks this week, we continue to carry the energy and excitement from Vegas. We have a lot in store for this first half. Stay updated with our monthly newsletter (sign up here!). 

To Jeremy, Sarah, Kia, Jay, Ari, Ashley, and the entire Cognitiv team who made this possible: thank you for making our Vegas All Hands unforgettable. Your energy, creativity, and camaraderie turned this event into so much more than a meeting. It was a celebration of who we are and everything we are building together to serve our amazing clients, partners, and the industry at large.