Algoma University’s Faculty of Computer Science and Technology (FCST), in collaboration with the Algoma University Computer Science Society (ALCOMS), successfully hosted ThunderHacks, the University’s first-ever 24-hour hackathon.

The event brought together more than 50 students, who were challenged to build technological solutions for three different scenarios: Frictionless Campus, Private Chatbot, and Customer Retention Platform. Participants were invited to collaborate, innovate, and build functional prototypes in teams with the opportunity to network with industry professionals, attend technical workshops, and compete for prize money.

“The inaugural Hackathon event was an excellent showcase of the creativity, dedication, and technical talent of our students,” shared Dr. Simon Xu, Acting Dean, Faculty of Computer Science & Technology. “It was inspiring to see participants collaborating intensively to develop innovative solutions while engaging with industry partners such as Digital Move and Shield Identity.Events like this not only strengthen connections between students and industry but also highlight the vibrant and innovative spirit of the computer science community at Algoma University, along with giving students the platform to showcase their skills to professionals. Congratulations to the ALCOMS for organizing such a successful ThunderHacks Hackathon.”

Over $2,000 in prize funding was distributed among the top three teams. The first-place team consisted of Bidhan Thapa, Harris Adedeji, Pratikshya Thapa and Vikas Saahil, with Joel Saji Varghese and Niya Jose placing second, and Masir Javed, Raafay Sheikh, Tarang Rana, and Rachit Ranabhat collecting third.

ThunderHacks reflects Algoma University’s commitment to experiential learning, collaboration, and supporting students as they explore pathways in computer science and technological innovation. To learn more about the Faculty of Computer Science and Technology at Algoma University, click here. 

Additional Quotes:

“Watching the energy at the Student Centre this weekend was a truly incredible experience. Our team poured an immense amount of heart and effort into making ThunderHacks a reality, and seeing the room filled with students pushing through technical challenges to bring their ideas to life made every moment worth it. The level of innovation and the spirit of collaboration we witnessed here in Brampton were a massive success for our community, and I am beyond proud of every hacker who showed up and gave it their all. This event set a high bar for what we can achieve together, and we are already looking forward to making the next one even bigger and better.” 

– ALCOMS Team

“Participating in any event is rewarding in many ways; however, taking part in an event that holds deep significance for its organizers can have an especially profound impact, mentally, physically, and psychologically. Today, I had the privilege of attending an event at Algoma University, organized by ALCOMS, the Algoma University Computer Science Club. This dedicated group of talented students has been working over the past two years to bring their vision to life in the inaugural hackathon, executed with professionalism and creativity. I was honoured to sponsor and support this initiative — not only because I believed in the team, but because I recognized the potential in their vision. The hackathon, named ThunderHacks, truly reflects their ambition and spirit. I am looking forward to supporting and attending future editions of ThunderHacks, growing in scale, recognition, innovation, and creativity. Well done, ALCOMS. You should be immensely proud of what you have accomplished, just as we are proud of you!”

 – Yaaqoub Hawsa, CEO of Digital Move, Gold Sponsor of ThunderHacks

“ThunderHacks was amazing. A huge thank you to everybody who arranged it, and participated in it. I want to give credit to Algoma University for giving their students a platform to arrange an event like this. All participants developed creative and intuitive solutions that I had never considered. I want to call on the community to continue to guide these students as they enter into the work force. I know that these individuals are going to make great changes.” 

– Himanshu Gulia, CEO of Shield Identity, Platinum, Sponsor of ThunderHacks

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