Maritime innovation was on full display last month as industry and academia united to tackle real-world challenges at Storm 2025, a 24-hour hackathon presented by Newport News Shipbuilding’s Dogfish Labs.

Sponsored by NNS and Amazon Web Services, and hosted by Christopher Newport University, the Hackathon took place over two days and involved eight teams composed of NNS shipbuilders and CNU students.

NNS provided the teams with problem statements on Friday night, and they promptly went to work, collaborating, coding and creating technology-driven solutions. Working through the night, they took advantage of cutting-edge AWS technologies and the guidance of mentors, refining their ideas.

On Saturday afternoon, the teams displayed their creativity and technical depth, pitching their final solutions to a panel of judges. Ideas ranged from generative artificial intelligence (AI) applications and advanced design tools to enhanced shipbuilding analytics.

The top three teams were recognized with prizes that included Meta AI glasses, high-tech keyboards and drones. The People’s Choice Award went to a team whose energy and innovation captured the audience’s imagination. Participants gained real-world experience, made new connections, and achieved a deeper understanding of how technology can drive transformation in the maritime industry.

“Everyone, no matter the level of experience with the tool set, played vital parts in teamwork, cohesion, and awareness to achieve a common goal,” said Troy Potvin (K23), who graduated from CNU and is now a business tech programmer at NNS.

Kennedy Griggs (E83), whose team took second place as well as the People’s Choice Award, said the Hackathon allowed participants to sharpen their technical skills – and more.

“Bringing shipbuilders and students together is a wonderful way to allow both sides to learn new ways of doing things with technology changing as rapidly as it has,” she said. “The friendships I saw built over 24 hours were amazing to see. I am looking forward to participating again next year.”

Uriah Bembower (O39), a product trainer in Nuclear Quality Control, said the event was “a blast.”

“It was fast-paced and incredibly challenging, which made it all the more exciting,” he said. “For most of us competing, this was our first Hackathon, but you wouldn’t have thought so by the submitted solutions.”

Jason Sutton, vice president and chief information officer, was an event sponsor and served as a judge. “The success of the Storm Hackathon was a powerful reminder of the innovation that happens when we bring brilliant young students and innovative industry professionals together to solve real-world challenges,” Sutton said. “I was inspired by the energy, creativity, and technical talent on display – and incredibly proud of NNS’s Dogfish Labs for leading the way in making this groundbreaking hackathon such a success.”

Brian Fields, vice president and chief technology officer, attended the presentation, deliberation and awards ceremony. Marco Estradra of Dogfish Labs also served as a judge.