The CXC Hackathon 2025, hosted by the University of Waterloo Data Science Club, brought together over 350 participants for two weeks of innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving. The Datathon/Hackathon started on Saturday, February 7, 2025 and aimed to inspire students to solve problems with data and analytics. With an increasing demand for skilled professionals in digital infrastructure, AI, and cloud computing, this event – in part – served as a launchpad for students eager to explore careers in data science, networking, and sustainability-driven technology.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of The Nomad Futurist Foundation, a Silver Sponsor of the Hackathon. Representing the Foundation was Ilissa Miller, CEO of iMiller Public Relations, who also serves as an Advisor to the Board and Ambassador for the organization. Through an engaging kickoff address, tabletop exhibit, and interactive workshop, Miller introduced attendees to Nomad Futurist’s mission, its online Academy, and the diverse career opportunities available in the global digital infrastructure industry.
Opening Ceremony: A Call to Action
During the opening ceremony, Miller had a short address to all of the attendees where she emphasized the importance of digital infrastructure and the urgent need to bridge the talent gap in the industry. She highlighted staggering workforce statistics: 45% of professionals in the sector have over 20 years of experience, with only 22% having fewer than 10 years. This generational shift, known as the “gray tsunami,” underscores the need for new talent pipelines and educational initiatives to sustain the industry’s rapid growth.
She encouraged students to think of themselves as the next generation of digital pioneers, explaining that data centers, cloud computing, and AI-driven infrastructure are the backbone of everything from streaming and gaming to cybersecurity and enterprise IT. Miller’s message resonated with students, many of whom are exploring career paths in machine learning, software development, and data analytics.
Interactive Workshop: Demystifying Digital Infrastructure Careers
Later in the day, Miller hosted a workshop titled Exploring Careers in Digital Infrastructure, which drew a diverse audience of students eager to learn more about non-traditional tech roles. She introduced the Nomad Futurist Academy, a free online learning platform designed to help individuals build foundational knowledge, access mentorship, and connect with industry professionals.
The Nomad Futurist Academy offers self guided courses prepared by industry experts to empower next generation learned to learnonline from the best in the business. The platform offers innovative learning modules, provides access on the go, enables networking to connect with global community and gain access to mentors and provides goals and achievements progress for participating individuals.
Through a myth-vs-fact quiz during her presentation, Miller debunked common misconceptions, such as the belief that all tech jobs require coding or that AI will eliminate more jobs than it creates. She also showcased the various sectors within digital infrastructure, including network engineering, cybersecurity, data center management, sustainability, and AI-driven analytics. All of which highlighted the vast skills and knowledge needed to sustain the growth of the industry.
A Mission-Driven Presence
Throughout the event, the Nomad Futurist Foundation maintained an active presence at its tabletop exhibit, where students could learn more about the organization, explore educational resources, sign up for the Nomad Futurist Academy and engage in one-on-one conversations about career pathways. The Foundation’s participation reinforced its commitment to empowering emerging talent and fostering innovation in digital infrastructure.
As AI, cloud computing, and networking continue to drive global digital transformation, the Nomad Futurist Foundation is playing a vital role in ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to thrive. By participating in events like the CXC Hackathon, the Foundation is not only supporting aspiring professionals but also helping to shape the future of digital infrastructure.
For more information about The Nomad Futurist Foundation and its Academy visit: www.nomadfuturist.org.
