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Each year, the Open Data Hub recognises individuals whose passion and dedication have significantly shaped both the project and the wider community. The “Open Data Hub Contributor of the Year” award is a tribute not only to technical excellence, but also to the human spirit that drives open collaboration and knowledge sharing.
In 2025, this honour goes to Matthias Dieter Wallnöfer — a contributor whose story embodies the very essence of the Open Data Hub.
Matthias’s journey began fifteen years ago, when he joined the project as a young student intern during its earliest stages. Under the mentorship of Roberto Cavaliere, Tech Transfer Digital’s Subject Matter Expert in AI and Mobility Solutions, Matthias developed his thesis within the European project Integreen, with a particular focus on API design.
From there, Matthias’s career has come full circle. After gaining experience in high-tech companies, he returned to his roots in education and now serves as a computer science teacher at the TFO “Max Valier” in Bozen/Bolzano. For Matthias, Open Data Hub is far more than an interest - it’s a personal mission.
Thanks to his initiative, students at the “Max Valier” regularly develop Open Source applications using real-world data from the Open Data Hub. At the Open Data Hub Day 2025, two of his students, David Spitaler and Elias Klotz, presented their innovative school project, “Open Quiz Hub,” showcasing how Open Data can fuel creativity and learning.
By recognising Matthias as the Open Data Hub Contributor of the Year 2025, we celebrate a long-standing contributor whose commitment to openness and education continues to inspire. His story demonstrates how early involvement in Open Source projects can evolve into a lifetime of impact, nurturing the next generation of developers, data scientists, and innovators.
Patrick OhneweinCongratulations, Matthias! Your enthusiasm and dedication are lighting the path forward for all who believe in the power of open data.