What we learned from our AI-Empowered Hackathon
Session description:
This session is a reflection + playbook for educators and community leaders using hackathons to teach AI.
We’ll discuss how a short, high-energy hackathon can introduce students to GenAI tools while also teaching the mindsets that matter most: curiosity, responsible use, experimentation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial problem-solving.
We’ll share:
The learning goals we designed for (and how we assessed them)
How we scaffolded GenAI use so students built original work
What student teams struggled with most (and what support helped)
How we incorporated pitching, feedback loops, and iteration
What we’d do differently next time, and why
Walk away with a practical blueprint you can adapt for a weekend sprint, classroom challenge, or after-school program.
Speakers bio:
James Barrood is a prominent figure in the NYC region's entrepreneurial, innovation, and tech ecosystem, with over 25 years of experience in nurturing and supporting startups, growth companies and higher education institutions. He leads a global community of entrepreneurs and innovators, and also oversees executive education programs focusing on AI.
James has held various leadership positions, including five years as CEO of TechUnited, one of the largest and most respected membership tech organizations nationwide. He has also led FDU's top-ranked entrepreneurship center for over a decade, where he mentored and trained countless entrepreneurs and innovators.
James serves on several boards including startups and growth companies as well as nonprofits AI for Good Foundation and Future World Alliance. In addition, he is on the board of Princeton University’s McCarter Theatre.
Roopak Naresh Gupta | LinkedIn
Roopak Gupta is the founder of Hureka Technologies and mTap, bringing two decades of Fortune 500 supply chain expertise to help businesses accelerate their AI transformation. A Columbia MBA and former J&J leader, he advises organizations on implementing practical AI and automation solutions.