Where Code Meets Creativity: USD to Host First-Ever Hackathon
The hackathon will include AI tools that enable participants to build solutions with just an idea, a plan and a laptop, making innovation accessible to a broader group of students and community members.
“There are so many aspects of this hackathon that are beneficial for students like exploring creative ideas, working as a team, learning how to quickly move an idea to first feasibility/proof-of-concept, etc.,” said Randy Faustino, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Division of Biomedical & Translational Sciences. “These are all scenarios that model the real-world work environment, particularly in tech-driven and innovation spaces, so students get to learn, develop and foster these skills in a secure and mentored space.”
USD’s hackathon is in partnership with Wildfire Labs, a venture studio dedicated to helping founders move from idea to revenue and raise their first round of capital. The organization combines an AI-powered platform that accelerates the building process with hands-on events including hackathons, pitch nights and peer mastermind groups.
With a focus on the students, the hackathon opens the door to both technical and non-technical participants, allowing students from all majors to form teams and build something together over a single weekend.
Mike Vetter, co-founder of Wildfire Labs, emphasized that this hackathon is not just for those who can write code; it is focused on creativity, collaboration and expanding opportunities to more participants.
He said, “Our goal is to raise visibility at USD around what is achievable with a degree and a good idea, and to plant seeds that may turn into real companies long after graduation.”
The teams will build their projects from April 11 to 12, and the top three teams will pitch their results on April 13, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
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