Students use machine learning to predict crime at annual Thunderbird Hackathon

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — High school students will immerse themselves into the world of coding and artificial intelligence while tackling community issues at the second annual Thunderbird Hackathon.

Sponsored by Sandia National Laboratories and Explora’s X Studio, the event on Saturday, Feb. 8, will teach students coding skills. Teams will create a machine learning model to predict crime incidents using real data from the City of Albuquerque’s open-data initiative.

“At Thunderbird Hacks, we empower students to use technology to make their community safer,” said Catherine Appleby, a computer scientist at Sandia and co-creator of the hackathon.

Participants will gain hands-on experience in Python programming, machine learning and artificial intelligence concepts, and data analysis, equipping them with skills increasingly in demand in today’s job market.

“Engaging students in these discussions enhances their understanding of technology’s real-world applications and encourages them to consider careers in fields that contribute to public safety,” said Deb Menke, STEM outreach program coordinator at Sandia.

The event will also celebrate the 2025 International Year of Quantum by offering hands-on quantum learning for children of all ages. Sandia, the Computer Science Alliance and the Career Connected Learning Department at Albuquerque Public Schools have teamed up to host an event called QuanTime NM from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.