Eyhab Al-Masri from the School of Engineering and Technology and the UW Tacoma Library are proud to announce the first ever UW Tacoma Hackathon, Hack@UWT set to take place on June 7th, 2019.

Here’s the best part: You don’t need specialized equipment or a coding background to participate. Hackathon kits and training materials will be available for students absolutely free.

What is a Hackathon?

A hackathon is a rapid design event focused on creative problem solving using computer programming. A hackathon blends techniques such as brainstorming, prototyping and open source designs. It is an event where developers, artists, designers and computer amateurs meet and work on developing solutions to real-world problems.

Over a 7-hour period, you will work with a team of 3-4 students to build a prototype or a proof of concept of anything that you believe would solve an existing real-world problem by creating your own smart device.

Some examples of hackathon projects are (obviously you can’t pick these!):

• Create a device to collect and measure pollution data.
• Design a robot to feed your pets while you’re out.
• Generate an original poem from the works of Shakespeare.
• Lights/displays that change color depending on how people interact with them.

I do not have a computing background, can I still participate?

Of course! We encourage students of all levels to join, build and learn! We will provide beginners with hardware resources they can borrow and online tutorials. We will also be holding training workshops throughout the first half of the Spring Quarter. The workshops are designed to introduce students to using the hardware and to facilitate team formation prior to the event.

What hardware resources will be available, what should I bring to the event, and how much will this cost?

We will provide a Raspberry Pi, Grove Pi+ kit and most of the sensors you will need to prototype a device.

We do recommend providing your own laptop for this event. Teams will also have access to 3D printers and a monitor. If there is something specific that you wish us to provide, contact us (email below) and let us know.

On the day of the event, please bring your valid student ID, a laptop, and any special equipment you need.

By the way, Hack@UWT is completely free! We will provide lots of food and drinks in addition to of tools and materials for all participants.

Ok, I’m in, how do I get involved?

First: join our listserv  in order to receive email about upcoming training dates and other event information, including a notification when event registration opens.

Second: check out the Hackathon web site for more information and answers to some frequently asked questions.

Third: if you want to volunteer to help out or just ask the event coordinators a question send us an email!

And finally: come to the Library (Snoqualmie Building) on April 23rd and check out some cool devices that students have built. Get inspired and pick up a full list of training dates so that you can set aside time in your calendar to come learn how to make your own cool device!

See you then!