On September 22–23, 50 participants—including undergraduate students from the Orléans University Institute of Technology (IUT), learners and interns from IMT, PhD candidates, and IMT R&D engineers—gathered in Orléans for a new edition of the TInnov Hackathon hosted by BRGM (French Geological and Mining Research Bureau), co-organized this year with IMT through its scientific community on “Renewable Energies and Resources.”
The challenge? In just 30 hours, mixed teams (IMT – Orléans IUT) had to imagine the innovations of tomorrow, all focused on a key issue: the subsurface and energy transition—covering themes like energy storage, green hydrogen, subsurface multifunctionality, and more.
More than just a competition, TInnov created a dynamic, supportive environment to learn, share, experiment, and collaborate. Supported by around 30 professionals—industry representatives, experts from BRGM and IMT, and AKTAN innovation coaches—teams tackled real-world problems with the freedom to unleash their creativity.
How did it unfold ?
Participants followed an intensive program blending creativity, strategic thinking, and hands-on application, interspersed with keynote talks and moments of conviviality.
- Day 1 : Topic immersion, research, brainstorming, challenge selection, ideation, and assessment of technical and economic feasibility.
- Day 2: Rapid prototyping, pitch writing, and final presentations before a jury.
And the winners are…
The jury was evenly split between industry professionals (50%) and participants (50%).
1st Prize : A project on green hydrogen, co-mentored by Guillaume Junqua (IMT Mines Alès) and Eric Serris (Mines Saint-Étienne).
2nd Prize : A project on recovering waste heat from the subsurface, co-mentored by Souria Hamidouche (IMT Nord Europe).
A transformative experience
“This was a truly enriching experience. It deepened my knowledge of green hydrogen and let me apply my technical expertise to our project. I’m honored to share that our team won first place.”
— Mel Huaman Matos, 2nd-year engineering student, IMT Atlantique
“Over the two days, we exchanged ideas, combined skills, and learned so much from the BRGM experts and fellow participants. The atmosphere was both focused and collaborative—perfect for sparking creativity.”
— Naïka Laurène Bogne, engineering student, IMT Mines Albi
“The topics were diverse yet coherent. Even though they were complex, the dedicated briefing material and the almost full-time availability of experts made them approachable. Having both a technical expert and a coach constantly present helped keep ideas realistic. Mixing students from IUT and IMT brought valuable complementarity, though there was a noticeable gap in maturity and synthesis abilities between less and more experienced participants.”
— Felix Degorce, intern, Mines Saint-Étienne (also an engineering student at ENSAM)
“The contest concept is excellent—it lets students and experts from diverse backgrounds confront ideas and collaborate on real-world challenges. The topics were relevant, the team sizes were ideal, and expert support was a real asset.”
— Josué Madama Malende, PhD candidate, Mines Saint-Étienne
“TInnov gave me the chance to meet key players in innovation and understand their roles. I also gained insight into the hurdles—and the levers—of innovation, all in a spirit of teamwork.”
— Nastasia Smeets, R&D engineer, IMT Mines Alès
“The hackathon organized by IMT, BRGM and the Orléans IUT was a great experience. We worked as a team to develop an innovative idea on subsurface energy challenges. The two days were intense and full of learning, with inspiring talks and networking. Our collective pride peaked when our team earned second place.”
— Saad Eloirdi, R&D engineer, IMT Nord Europe
“This was a highly rewarding experience. I mentored a team developing an innovative project addressing subsurface issues, bridging technological innovation with social impact. It was also a great opportunity to showcase our research center’s expertise and share updates on the GEOTER project, which ties in closely with TInnov’s themes.”
— Souria Hamidouche, research professor, IMT Nord Europe
“TInnov is a living example of what happens when science, creativity and collective boldness converge. In just two days, ideas, collaborations, and even new vocations emerge. For us at Mines Paris – PSL, it’s a powerful way to place our students and researchers at the heart of open innovation, where knowledge meets action.”
— Murad Abuaisha, research professor, Mines Paris – PSL
In short: TInnov is more than a hackathon.
- A fast-paced, hands-on format
- A future-focused theme
- An ideal setting for alternative learning
- A unique opportunity to build networks, innovate, and stand out
- Potential follow-ups including internships, project launches, and more
TInnov is more than a hackathon. It’s an experience. And the next one could be yours.
