Broward College 2016 Hackathon Challenges Young Programmers

DAVIE, Fla (October 2, 2016) – For the second year, the Broward College Computer Science Department will host a hackathon competition between Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15. The 24-hour contest will challenge young technology enthusiasts from universities and colleges across the county to develop new software programs. The event will begin with an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. at the A. Hugh Adams Central Campus in Davie.

Sponsored by Ultimate Software, Hackathon 2016 is a highlight for local students. Teams are required to pitch an idea and build a prototype to present on the final day, which not only encourages students to pursue careers in technology but also fosters knowledge sharing among participants from different majors. No work or coding can be done on projects before the start of the Hackathon, and students retain ownership rights of their projects after the event.

“No matter what stage you’re at in your career, innovation is key to achieving continued success in tech,” said Adam Rogers, chief technology officer of Ultimate Software. “A hackathon provides the perfect venue for real-time innovation, with the opportunity to take unlimited chances and test grand ideas to solve real-life challenges. Just as we host hackathons for our own employees at Ultimate, we’re thrilled to partner with Broward College in supporting these students as they set out to develop tomorrow’s great tech solutions.”

Beginning in the mid-2000s, hackathons were the creative solution of companies looking for ways to drive innovation in the development of new technology. Since then, hackathons have taken on an academic component, exposing students to potential career opportunities in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs are expected to see the largest increase between 2012 to 2022.

“Hackathons are a great way for students to learn about current technology in an environment where they will be surrounded by others who share the same passion for programming,” said Michelle Levine, professor of computer science and co-organizer of Hackathon 2016. “Last year’s event went so well, and the projects were so impressive, that we can’t wait to see what students create this year.”

In order to participate in Hackathon 2016 students must be currently enrolled at Broward College or another college or university in Broward County. Select High School participants also will be invited to participate. Sponsorship opportunities are still open.

Hackathon 2015 winners included NerdUp, a collaboration tool for computer science students; inRhythm, a search engine for musicians; and a personal aide robot programmed to help around the home. 

For more information contact Michelle Levine at mlevine1@broward.edu or 954 201-6318.