Student competition links social issues with innovative solutions
NSCC students won RBC’s annual Hubhacks competition in Halifax last month. In 3 days, over 70 students from post-secondaries across Nova Scotia showcased their tech-driven solutions for real community issues. NSCC Team 2 presented a proof-of-concept solution to a panel of judges, taking home first place and a $2,500 prize.
Hubhacks provides students with experience developing and presenting a tangible project while networking with industry experts. Justin, an IT Programming student, says the experience was a chance to apply the skills he’s been learning at NSCC to a real-world project.
Supported by Faculty member Dan Penny, the team included students from Full Stack Application Development, IT Database Administration and IT Programming. Tasked with developing a sustainable solution to improve local food security, the group applied personal experiences, from food bank use to dietary restrictions, to highlight challenges in sourcing dietary-specific food items.
Creative, local solutions
Their solution, FoodSafe NS, helps users find food banks and filter available products by dietary restrictions through an online app.
“Each food bank could scan items to automatically update inventory on the FoodSafe NS app,” says Sarah, a Full Stack Application Development student. “This makes it easier to track food items and request donations that meet specific needs. Food bank users can also find locations with items that match their dietary requirements.”
Justin describes the task as fun, unique and challenging. “Everyone brought something different and together we created a forward-thinking solution.”
Innovative student experience
“Judges were thoroughly impressed with the innovation, professionalism and creativity that each student team displayed,” says Rachel MacLeod on behalf of RBC.
“Experiencing the tech environment was really cool,” says Marrick, an IT Database Administration student. “We were all there for the same reason. It confirmed I’m on the right career path.”
Hubhacks is also a chance for students to network with mentors and peers. Jeremy, an IT Programming student, says he took the opportunity to connect with other competitors to learn more about their solutions and deepen connections. “Everyone’s ideas were fantastic in design and implementation. Every team deserved first place.”
“The competition validated how powerful the skills I’m learning are,” says Mohammad, an IT Database Administration student. “It boosted my confidence in my skills and I enjoyed connecting with prospective employers and industry leaders.”
Events like Hubhacks highlight the value of hands-on learning, collaboration and innovation. Congratulations to all who competed in RBC Hubhacks 2025!