Hackathons: What are They?

Hackathon (n): an event that brings computer programmers, graphic designers, software engineers, interface designers, project coordinators, and entrepreneurs together for intense collaborative work on software, and occasionally hardware, projects.

Hackathons are innovative, team-based gatherings that, either competitively or informally, seek new technology in the form of apps, clouds, or sometimes physical inventions. Normally, they last at least a day, and sometimes up to a week, effectively turning into slumber parties. They’re big and small. Local and national. High stakes and low stakes. And they’re awesome.

Picture a big room full of big brains that all specialize in different areas. Together, they make the most successful and lucrative businesses. And hackathons aren’t only about creating the best prototypes; they also introduce these talented players to each other. Often, participants who were previously strangers, bond over ideas in a beautiful display of creativity and teamwork. It’s kind of like minor league sports for techies.

So, where are these and who can participate? Short answer: everywhere and everyone. Long answer: big hackathons happen all over the county, namely in college towns and startup meccas. Some require applications or fees, and others only ask that you register. But the biggest hackathons fill up fast and delegate spots on a wait list. Why a wait list? Maybe because a lot of them involve substantial cash prizes for teams that place, as decided by a panel of judges. Plus, investors and huge tech companies recruit promising talent from events—attending one could the beginning of the rest of your life.

Actually, it could be the beginning of a lot of people’s lives. Namely babies in third world countries. Medically centered hackathons have gained traction, and already some amazing technology has come of it. In 2012, the Consortium for Affordable Medical Technologies (CAMTech) hosted their first hackathon, and from it came a life-saving device for newborns. Because of doctors’ poor training in developing countries, 1.8 million babies die each year from breathing trouble and improper resuscitation. Enter the Augmented Infant Resuscitator (AIR). Three participants at the CAMTech Hackathon, each specializing in a different area, created a device in just two days that regulates the pressure for newborn resuscitation. This is what happens when smart people come together in the spirit of collaboration.

Still, you don’t have to be a genius to participate. If it interests you, find one that’s nearby—the fall is a big hackathon season. The team spirit of these events means that all angles of thinking are valued, expert coder or not.