CodeFest 2025 explores AI and tech for human-centered travel
How can artificial intelligence (AI) enhance an individually customized travel experience?
That challenge brought together students, and faculty, and industry partners from Marriott International for CodeFest 2025, a 48-hour sprint of creativity and collaboration on Oct. 10. Centered on the theme “From Booking to Belonging: AI and Tech for Human-Centered Travel,” the event challenged students to explore how technology can help travelers feel a true sense of connection, resulting in innovative ideas ranging from a health-aware travel platform to tools that reduce check-in times from seven minutes to under 30 seconds.
"CodeFest embodies the best of interdisciplinary learning," said Saonee Sarker, the Richard E. Sorensen Dean of the Pamplin College of Business. "It's about harnessing technical, analytical, creative, and human centered perspectives to solve complex, real-world challenges."
Sponsored by the Pamplin College of Business in partnership with Marriott International, CodeFest is built on a similar internal challenge Marriott International hosted for its employees. Extending the experience at Virginia Tech showcased the creativity and ingenuity of students from business, computer science, and other disciplines who explored the intersection of technology and hospitality.
“Their ability to tackle real world challenges with bold ideas and thoughtful execution speaks volumes about the talent and drive within the Hokie community,” said Naveen Manga, chief information officer of Marriott International. “I left the event energized and optimistic about the future of technology and hospitality, knowing that these students are already shaping it.”
Teams of up to five students collaborated on prototypes and business models addressing hospitality and travel challenges. Guided by mentors from Marriott International, they spent the weekend turning ideas into viable solutions, gaining experience in design thinking, technical development, and leadership. Each team presented its work to a panel of judges, including company technology leaders specializing in security, infrastructure, and user experience.
This year’s winning teams demonstrated how technology can bridge innovation and empathy.
First place: The Blacksburg Bytes
Team members: Anish Kankanala, Ish Patel, Kavi Gandham, and Rahul Modugula
Marriott Voyage reimagines the solo traveler experience by transforming downtime into social commerce. The solution matches verified Bonvoy guests and shows real-time activities, connecting members with one click while monetizing unplanned moments by creating shared experiences.
Second place: Team Rocket
Team members: Aman Anwar, Shiva Pochampally, Joe Do, and Courtney Begoon
Atlas is a user-focused solution that guides travelers from inspiration to booking using AI-powered vision boards, direct booking, and personalized recommendations.
Third place: Error-404
Team members: Hiren Sai Vellanki, Nitheesh Reedy, and Ashwin Nimmala
A health-aware travel platform that addresses challenges faced by travelers with health conditions and accessibility needs.
Honorable mention: 404: Not Found
Team members: Krishna Sharma, Rishika Gade, Vishwaja Bute, Krish Maniar, and Shreyas Desai
A solution that integrates AI verification and NFC-based mobile tags to help Marriott International reduce average check-in time from seven minutes to under 30 seconds.
Honorable mention: Hokie VAURP
Team members: Pratham Joshi, Rohan Chavan, Vishal Pednekar, Atharva Salunke, and Uma Sawant Bhosale
CareRoute supports patients from pre-arrival to recovery through AI and digital care coordination, creating a seamless managed medical journey “from check-in to check-up.”
The spirit of service also shaped the weekend. Students from the Howard Feiertag Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management prepared Saturday’s lunch and later donated the leftover food to a local organization, reflecting both the university’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), and Marriott International’s Spirit to Serve culture.
Written by Bekah Parker
