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The Challenge
AEP was a Challenge Sponsor of the annual HackOHI/O event at The Ohio State University, where over 800 students competed in a 24-hour hackathon to find the most innovative and viable prototype.
As a sponsor, AEP presents a challenge for students to gain first-hand experience in the energy sector. This year, AEP’s project focused on reliability and asked students to calculate real-time ratings for each transmission line segment to avoid overloads.
A record-breaking number of 54 students, comprising 17 teams, took on the AEP Challenge. They used data analysis, geo-spatial mapping, AI and other tools to develop innovative solutions. After a sleepless 24 hours of prototyping, teams then submitted their projects to be judged by the AEP panel.
The winners, OSU students Shreyash Purav, Liam Schmidt and Jessiah Brown, created a Dynamic Grid Analyzer - a web-based simulation to calculate real-time thermal rating and load status of an individual power line.
In addition to proposing the challenge, AEP employees volunteered throughout the 24 hours to help with the event and mentor students.
“As a mentor, I not only share my experience and knowledge, but also gain fresh insights from participants. Mentoring the next generation is important to help inspire them to push boundaries and think creatively,” said Bala Pitchai, IT architect principal and HackOHI/O mentor. “I see it as an opportunity to help young innovators navigate challenges and develop their skills.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
In addition to real-world exposure through the project, students explored internships and career opportunities with AEP. LaToya Rooker, managing director of Technology, provided the keynote address.
“As we face significant demand and growth, we seek bright new talent to revolutionize our approach,” said LaToya. “We need innovative minds to help lead AEP’s transformation, and this was the perfect opportunity to connect with students.”
Wendy Bell, talent acquisition specialist senior, appreciates how these events display not only AEP as a future workplace, but also the talent of potential future employees.
“Hackathons give us a unique opportunity to see students in action—solving complex problems, collaborating under pressure and applying technical skills to real-world challenges. For us, it’s not just about recruiting; it’s about building meaningful relationships early and showing that our company is a place where bold ideas don’t just fit in, they thrive.”