To the Land of the Alps, We Go!

APU Students’ Swiss Adventure with Hilti

Hey everyone! Guess what? The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)’s Team Sweetzerland just lived a dream that many of us can only imagine – a whirlwind trip to Switzerland, thanks to their big win at the Hilti IT Competition (ITC) 2024.

Let’s rewind a little and take you through this unforgettable journey.It all started with a bang back when StarEdu – the education pullout of The Star – splashed the headline: "To the Land of the Alps, we go!" This eye-catching title was accompanied by a jubilant group photo of the team and their mentors—Senior Lecturers Mr Amad Arshad and Ms Palvinderjit Kaur—celebrating their victory.

In that photo, Team Lead Zachary Ang Zi Yang and Tech Lead Vandyck Lai Kai Yong held a mock boarding pass to Switzerland, symbolising their triumph and the journey ahead.

The reason for the hype? This squad – led by Zachary and Vandyck, with the equally talented Kok Hon Kit (Machine Learning Lead), Cheryl Lim Wye Yee (Design Lead), and Lee Ren Jie (Full Stack Lead) – snagged the Grand Champions title at the Hilti ITC 2024 on 6 June. As a reward, they were jetting off to Switzerland, the land of chocolates, watches, and Hilti’s global IT headquarters.

Let’s dive into their adventure, which took place from 12 to 19 November.

Hilti HQ: A Hub of Innovation

“Walking into Hilti’s HQ in Buchs was like stepping into the future!” the team gushed. Surrounded by autumn’s golden hues, they were welcomed with open arms by Hans Huesler, a seasoned Hilti representative, who shared Hilti’s story of innovation, cutting-edge tools, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability.

The tour was next-level cool – from sleek container-style meeting rooms to solar-panelled car parks and rainwater collection systems. The inclusive environment, exemplified by the on-site daycare centre, left a lasting impression on the visitors.

Plant No. 1: Where the Magic Happens

The team also got an insider look at Hilti’s Plant No. 1, where bolts and anchors – Hilti’s bread and butter – are crafted to perfection. Watching raw materials transform into high-tech products was like being on the set of a science documentary. “Hans broke it all down for us,” the team said, “and we left in awe of Hilti’s precision and passion.”

Lunchtime Vibes

At Hilti, even lunch was special. Think top-notch meals and loads of bonding moments. Over hearty plates of food, the team shared their morning highlights and soaked in the good vibes. It wasn’t just lunch; it was a slice of Hilti’s people-first culture.

Behind the Scenes: Logistics in Action

Safety boots on, they headed to Hilti’s logistics hub. This was the engine that powers Hilti’s global operations – with advanced sensors and cameras making sure everything runs like clockwork. For the team, it was a masterclass in efficiency.

Raising the APU Flag at Mount Pilatus

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And then came the trip’s ultimate highlight: Mount Pilatus. Riding a cable car through the Swiss Alps felt straight out of a fantasy film. At a staggering 2,100 metres, with the clouds beneath them and snowy peaks all around, the team hoisted the APU flag, marking a moment they’d never forget.

“It was like a dream come true,” they said. “Standing there, we felt like champions, representing APU on a global stage.”

Looking Back with Gratitude

The trip wasn’t just about the sights and experiences but about the people and support that made it happen. “A huge thanks to Hilti for their hospitality and APU for believing in us,” the team shared. From their mentors to their university’s backing, it was a true team effort.

What It Takes to Be Champions

Team Sweetzerland’s journey started way before their trip. Their winning project – a cutting-edge talent acquisition system – beat 53 other submissions to clinch the top spot at Hilti ITC 2024 on 6 June 2024. This wasn’t just a win. It was a testament to APU’s innovation streak, with Team Sweetzerland carrying on a legacy of victories from 2020, 2021, and 2023.

The Bigger Picture

This journey was more than just a competition. It was proof of how APU shapes its students into future-ready trailblazers. With industry collaborations, innovative teaching, and a focus on global exposure, the sky's the limit for APU students.

Team Sweetzerland’s advice to future champs? “Dream big, take risks, and grab every opportunity!” Here’s to more milestones, more memories, and more magic in the years ahead. Watch this space – we’re just getting started!

Returning to the APU campus with a trophy, Team Switzerland—comprising (from 3rd from the left onwards): Kok Hon Kit, Cheryl Lim Wye Yee, Zachary Ang Zi Yang, Vandyck Lai Kai Yong, and Lee Ren Jie—was warmly welcomed by their mentors and Heads of Schools, from left: Assoc Prof Dr Tan Chin Ike, Head of the School of Computing (SoC), and Mr Amad Arshad, Senior Lecturer of SoC; from right: Assoc Prof Dr Thang Ka Fei, Senior Head of the School of Technology (SoT), and Ms Palvinderjit Kaur, Senior Lecturer of SoT.