Lawson State students brought home the 2-year college prize at the recent HBCU Energy Hackathon, presented by the Alabama Association of Blacks in Energy and Alabama Power. Competing as Team COUGAR W.A.T.T., this inventive group earned cash awards for tackling a tough challenge: how to quantify and visualize non-energy benefits.
So, what did they do?
"We pitched a data-driven app designed to improve energy stewardship, helping consumers connect their energy behaviors to financial savings and quality of life improvements," said team member Taylor Grace, who is studying aerospace engineering.
Their innovative idea wasn't just about technology. it sparked deeper conversations about energy stewardship and personal responsibility. Overall, it was an eye-opening process, according to Taylor and team members McKinley Oliver (Civil Engineering), Dale Miller (Computer Science), AJay Thedford (Graphic Arts), and Akirah Hubbard (Electrical Engineering).
"This project gave me a new perspective on consumer energy challenges," said Akirah. "It made me realize how many unsolved energy issues exist in our world and how I can play a role in creating meaningful change."
In addition, the group networked with pros in energy, engineering, and other fields, while also learning about environmental and energy challenges. They also got to know students from Alabama A&M, Trenholm State Community College, Tuskegee University, and other schools.
"One of my favorite parts was watching the other colleges present; seeing their boldness and hearing their ideas for improving communities was inspiring," Akirah added.
