Events

CAEE HACKATHON FALL 2025
Build. Code. Collaborate. Compete.

Dates: September 8th - September 21st
Location: ECJ 3.116

What is a Hackathon?
What to Expect?
Get Involved
FAQs
Schedule
Register

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is a combination of "hack," which means creative problem-solving or building something quickly, and "marathon," which highlights the intense, extended duration of the event. It’s a collaborative, hands-on experience where participants brainstorm ideas, develop prototypes, and present their work. However, don't worry about being an expert—hackathons are a great opportunity to learn, innovate, and have fun with your friends!

Do I need to be good at programming?

Not at all! If you've taken CE311K (Introduction to Computer Methods) or CE377K (Data Science in CAEE), that's great—it could give you a helpful foundation. But if you haven’t taken these courses or don’t have prior coding experience, no worries! We’ll provide basic Python programming training during the event. Plus, you’ll have support from our amazing graduate student coding mentors. They’ll be there as your hackathon pacemakers, ready to help you tackle challenges and keep your progress on track.

Do you offer any training?

Yes we do! We will offer ad hoc training sessions to cover different topics such as data analytics, refresher to Python, AI/ML, web apps, and visualization training during the hackathon so if you are stuck, help is just a training session or a mentor away.

 

What to Expect?

Participants can expect a dynamic environment where they'll be challenged to think critically and creatively. You will have the chance to:

• Collaborate with fellow students across disciplines to brainstorm and develop solutions.
• Learn from best in class researchers through training sessions, gaining insights into cutting-edge technologies and approaches in civil engineering.
• Innovate by applying theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, potentially laying the groundwork for future research or startup ideas.
• Compete for prizes and recognition, showcasing your solutions to a panel of judges.
• Connect with industry professionals who will present real-world challenges and provide mentorship throughout the event, offering insights into current industry needs and career pathways.

All participants will receive a certificate recognizing their completion of the hackathon, perfect for adding to your résumé or LinkedIn profile (don’t forget to tag us!). It’s a rewarding experience that showcases your skills and dedication.

 

Get Involved

 

For Graduate Students

Graduate students are encouraged to participate in the Hackathon as mentors, volunteers, or logistical support. It’s a great opportunity to share your experience, support student teams, and get involved in a high-energy, impactful event.

Want to help? Contact Krishna Kumar at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Ways for Industry Partners to Participate

Our Hackathon thrives on collaboration and mentorship. There are several ways to contribute—whether you're bringing real-world challenges from your organization, offering guidance, or simply connecting with students.

Bring a Problem
Industry partners are invited to submit real-world challenges for students to solve. These problems form the foundation of the Hackathon projects and give students exposure to relevant, impactful work.

Mentor
Graduate students, industry professionals, or sponsors can serve as mentors, supporting student teams as they brainstorm, prototype, and present. Mentors provide guidance, answer technical questions, and help students stay on track.

Judge
Faculty, industry professionals, and sponsors are invited to evaluate student projects during the final showcase. Judges provide feedback, assess innovation, and help select winning teams.

Join Us for Lunch
Everyone is welcome to attend our closing lunch and final presentations. It's a great opportunity to meet students, hear about their work, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Interested in Participating?

We’d love to connect! Contact Sarah Wearne at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more or get involved.

FAQs

Why Partner With Us?

Our Hackathon creates a unique opportunity to connect with talented students while they're tackling real problems. Industry partners get direct access to motivated problem-solvers who bring fresh perspectives to your challenges. It's also an excellent way to identify potential hires before they enter the broader job market. Beyond talent scouting, you'll be contributing to meaningful education while showcasing your company as an innovation leader within the university community.

What You'll Get Out of It

The informal setting makes networking natural - whether you're mentoring a team, judging presentations, or just chatting over lunch. Many partners find these relationships extend well beyond the event itself. You'll also get to see how the next generation approaches problems, which often leads to surprising insights for your own work.

Schedule

WEEK 1: September 8 - 12

5 PM - 7 PM

Monday, Sept 8th: Kick-Off and Project Reveal
Wednesday, Sept 10th: Training, Coding and Check-In
Friday, Sept 12th: Training, Coding and Check-In

WEEK 2:  September 15 - 19

5 PM - 7 PM

Monday, Sept 15th: Training, Coding and Check-In
Wednesday, Sept 17th: Training, Coding and Check-In
Friday, Sept 19th: Training, Coding and Check-In

HACKATHON SHOWCASE

10 AM - 2 PM

Sunday, Sept 21st: Lunch and Presentations

Register

Student registration coming soon!

 

Questions? Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Assistant Professor 

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