Technology is always evolving, and hands-on experience is crucial for anyone looking to succeed in the field.
StackHacks, a computer science club at Binghamton University's Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science, helps students develop their technical and teamwork skills through real-world projects, mentorship and networking. The club welcomes members of all backgrounds and experience levels, creating a space where everyone learns and grows together.
Beyond coding, StackHacks fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging students to tackle challenges that mirror industry demands. Whether working on software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity or hackathon projects, members gain experience that prepares them for careers in tech. The club also connects students with industry professionals, alumni and peers, helping them build a strong network that extends beyond the classroom.
Working on projects helps members enhance their coding skills and fosters collaboration. Students experience the software development process, from brainstorming and planning to implementation and testing. By the end of a project, members not only have something tangible to add to their portfolios but also have gained valuable experience working in a structured team environment, which will serve them well in internships and jobs after graduation.
StackHacks also organizes events to help members enhance their professional skills. The club's LeetCode workshops prepare students for technical interviews, focusing on problem-solving techniques essential for landing tech jobs and internships. By attending, students can "increase speed, improve performance under pressure and learn effective coding strategies."
The events are open to the entire Binghamton University community, making it easier for students outside the club to develop the skills needed to succeed in the industry. Many students struggle with technical interviews, as they require not only coding knowledge but also strategic problem-solving and time management.
By hosting mock interviews, coding challenges and hands-on workshops, these events create a supportive space for students to build confidence and improve their skills. They offer the chance to practice under realistic conditions, receive constructive feedback and learn how to approach problems more efficiently. Even for those not actively applying for jobs, these experiences help strengthen technical foundations and prepare students for future opportunities, whether in the classroom, during internships or in the professional world.
"I joined with minimal coding experience when the club was created, but through project teams, I've developed my skills and taken on new challenges," said Erika O. Nelson, StackHacks secretary. "I started on the website team, and now I'm also working on the game development team." The LeetCode sessions provide structured practice in these areas, helping students build confidence and improve their chances of securing competitive positions.
StackHacks is dedicated to making the tech field more inclusive. The club actively works to "uplift underrepresented groups in tech such as Latinx, Black, Indigenous and women in STEM." Through mentorship and hands-on experience, students gain access to opportunities that help them build confidence and gain a competitive edge in the industry.
"The team's structure is extremely supportive of their members," Nelson said. "StackHacks recruits team leads for each development team who are committed to helping their team members the best they can, and our e-board members oversee each project and ensure things are running smoothly."
StackHacks members work on various projects that give them hands-on experience in software development. Current projects include creating an official club website to serve as an information hub, collaborating on a ColorStack website to promote diversity in tech, designing and building an interactive game, and improving an existing application by enhancing its features and usability.
Each project allows members to explore different aspects of software development while working as a team. These experiences help students understand the full development process, from idea to execution, and prepare them for future careers.
The club also provides networking opportunities that help students land internships and full-time positions at top tech companies. Many StackHacks alumni have gone on to work at major companies, using the skills and connections they built through the club to jumpstart their careers.
Beyond technical skills, StackHacks helps students develop soft skills that are equally important in the workplace. Working in teams, presenting project ideas and solving problems collaboratively teach students how to communicate effectively, manage time efficiently and adapt to new challenges. These skills are critical in today's fast-paced tech industry, where teamwork and adaptability are just as important as coding expertise.
Members of StackHacks see the group as more than just a club; they view it as a community where students can enhance their skills as developers. They encourage anyone interested in building an app, designing a website, or exploring game development to join StackHacks. This is a great opportunity to gain experience and collaborate with others.
