Appathon ignites emerging digital talent

LA TROBE University in collaboration with cloud computing platform provider ServiceNow and the local arm of global professional services firm Deloitte has held its second annual Appathon – an initiative designed to empower the next generation of digital talent – at its Flora Hill campus.

The event was open to students of all disciplines and study levels as well as alumni, with participants on the day encouraged to diversify their thinking in solving real-world business challenges through the use of artificial intelligence.

Teams were paired with various attending organisations and supported by mentors from ServiceNow and Deloitte to build new solutions on the ServiceNow platform, before setting about team-based problem solving and pitching their ideas to a panel of judges.

La Trobe Bendigo head of campus Marg O’Rourke said the event created meaningful experiences that prepared attending students for the future of work, particularly in regional communities.

“We’re proud to provide a platform for students and alumni to gain industry skills, build confidence and connect with potential employers,” she said.

“By hosting the Appathon in Bendigo, we’re not only making innovation accessible to regional students and alumni – we’re also unlocking new pathways for digital talent to thrive locally.”

Megan Fisher, Pro Vice-Chancellor Industry Engagement at La Trobe, said the event was an example of how the university’s Innovation Entrepreneurship Program drives real world impact.

“Connecting our students and alumni with industry leaders like Bendigo Bank to solve meaningful challenges through AI is a testament to the power of collaboration,” she said.

“This initiative creates opportunities in areas where they’re needed most and La Trobe is proud to join the charge in building inclusive, future-focused pathways for digital talent.”