On Saturday, November 9, hundreds will gather at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for HackRPI 2024. The 24-hour marathon of coding will begin at 11 a.m., when participants will team up to address the competition’s theme: Urban Upgrades. Participants will be asked to enhance the infrastructure, services, and quality of life in cities by developing new ideas and technologies. Examples are smart transportation systems, sustainable energy solutions, improved public safety, and inclusive community spaces. Prizes will be awarded during the closing ceremony around 2 p.m. on Sunday.

“I encourage anyone interested to participate, or even to just stop by to learn more,” said Xenia Khusid, president of the organizing committee. “It’s a great way to make new friends, have fun, and learn new things!”

The competition is open to anyone, whether they are a student at RPI or not, and regardless of area of study and level of experience. In fact, students from about 45 other colleges have participated in the past. All are welcome and a team of experienced mentors is available for guidance. Registration is free online, and it includes food and swag at the event.

Thanks to sponsors such as Nuvalence, thinair, GlobalFoundries, Lutron, Rensselaer’s School of Science, the Rensselaer Center for Open Source, and Troy Web Consulting, cash prizes up to $1,500 will be awarded along with a variety of physical prizes, as well. 

Past winners have designed a tool to assist people with vision impairments, an AI-powered search system to help simplify finding appropriate medical care, and a biometric-based pill dispenser to help prevent opiate overdoses.