2026 Hackathon Recap: Three Teams, Three Apps, and One Big Win for Student Innovation
Mountainland Technical College recently concluded its first-ever Hack-a-Thon event, where students competed in teams to develop a website and app. Teams consisted of students from the Software Quality Assurance, Digital Marketing and Analytics, Digital Design, iOS Development, and Web Programming and Development programs. All three teams earned top results and a share of the $740 prize pool after presenting their projects to a panel of industry judges.
Hack-a-Thon participants were expected to collaborate, problem solve, and develop functional apps under tight deadlines. While the apps created were not fully developed commercial applications, each team successfully built working prototypes that demonstrated creativity, technical skill, and real-world potential.
Taking first place was Thread Share, an app designed to help users organize their closets while allowing friends and family to browse or request to borrow clothing items. It was a simple idea with broad appeal. Judges praised the team for delivering a polished and highly functional prototype within the competition timeframe.
Second place was awarded to MTECH Connect, a platform created specifically for MTECH students. The app helps students connect with peers across programs, discover upcoming events, and access information related to student life and campus involvement.
Earning third place was Hirence, an app focused on helping employers connect with MTECH students and graduates. The platform allows students to showcase their skills and experience while giving employers an opportunity to identify candidates who fit their workforce needs.
MTECH would like to extend a special thanks to the Hack-a-Thon donors Dave DeLong, Bin There Dump That, and Fire Us Marketing by Eli Adams for championing the event and supporting hands-on learning opportunities for our students.
Events like the Hack-a-Thon provide students with valuable experience in teamwork, communication, and project development while preparing them for future careers in industry. MTECH looks forward to seeing how these projects and ideas continue to grow beyond the competition.
A RETURN WITH PURPOSE
For Kimberly Tervort, MTECH has been part of her journey for nearly a decade. After completing the Medical Assistant program nine years ago, she spent several years working in the field, where she discovered a new interest while collaborating with radiologic technologists on the job.
Driven by her love of photography and inspired by the impact of radiology, Kimberly made the decision to return to MTECH to pursue the Radiography Technology program.
Throughout her training at MTECH, Kimberly embraced the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the healthcare industry. Each patient and clinical experience strengthened her ability to adapt, think critically, and provide quality care.
Kimberly’s motivation to succeed in both her program and career is deeply personal. As a mother of two, she is committed to showing her children that hard work and determination can open doors. “Today’s students can be tomorrow’s leaders,” Kimberly shares. It’s a mindset she lives out every day.
About Mountainland Technical College
Mountainland Technical College is home to award-winning technical education with campuses throughout Utah’s majestic Wasatch Range. As Utah’s largest technical college, serving more than 6,000 students annually across 38 industry-focused programs, MTECH’s mission is ‘to enhance the employability of individuals through market-driven career and technical education’.
Published on: May 22, 2026 at 2:25pm MT