What is Technica?
Technica is the world’s largest hackathon for underrepresented genders, hosted annually by students at the University of Maryland.
Over the duration of 24 hours, Technica hackers are immersed in tech culture and encouraged to exercise their imagination to create interesting and innovative hacks.
This year, Technica will be hosted in a hybrid format, with the option to hack virtually or in-person depending on one's preference.
At Technica, we want to challenge our hackers to step out of their comfort zone and try something new, whether that's exploring a new technology, tinkering with hardware, or coding for the very first time! At Technica, we want our hackers to learn, grow, and meet new people, so join us at Technica 2021!
Hear From Our Hackers!
“Technica was very impactful because of the relationships I made and the significance of building VR software for the next generation of students that like hands-on work.”
- Anna Blendermann, 2019 hacker
"I wish I knew how fast the time was going to go. I felt empowered that I was surrounded by so many intelligent women."
- Sophia Michael, 2019 hacker
"My favorite part was working closely with a select group of extremely kind women who were just as passionate for STEM and gender inclusion as I am."
- Priya Kalra, 2020 ambassador
Registration
Come build using hardware, software, or anything you want with other hackers! You don't have to know how to code to be a hacker. Hackers can be students, designers, or just any tech-lover out there!
Come help hackers with their ideas by being a resource for hackers who may have questions about their projects. Mentors can be anyone 18 years or older and of any gender willing to share their knowledge! There will be in-person and virtual opportunities. Learn more about mentor expectations here.
Come help with the operations! Volunteers are a huge helping hand and help make sure the hackathon runs smoothly. Anyone 18 years or older and of any gender can volunteer and help make Technica a success! There will be in-person and virtual opportunities.
FAQ
What is a "hackathon"?
A hackathon is a technology-focused event where individuals and teams work on new projects in a short period of time. You can build anything you want. An app, a robot, a website. The only limit is your imagination!
Why a hackathon for underrepresented genders?
People of a variety of genders are underrepresented in the tech world, and it’s up to everyone to change that! Technica’s goal is to create a welcoming environment where people from underrepresented genders can build cool projects and share their stories! You can learn more about gender diversity here.
Do I need to know how to code?
No, you don’t need ANY coding experience to participate! If you do, that’s great! If you don’t, that’s also great! Students of all skill levels are encouraged to attend, even if you’ve never written a line of code. We’re very beginner friendly and are prepared to teach you everything you need to learn right here. We also have a beginners track to further help beginner coders start their tech journey!
When is Technica?
Technica will be held in November 2021 over a 24 hour period. The exact dates will be announced soon!
What will Technica be like this year?
This year Technica will be integrating a hybrid model as we continue adapting through the pandemic. This means Technica will be held both online and in person - not just at UMD! More information on our hybrid model will be available on this website and on social media in June, so stay tuned and get excited!
What is a hybrid hackathon?
A hybrid hackathon is a hackathon that provides the ability to attend both in-person and virtually. This year, Technica is pioneering the concept of a hybrid hackathon in order to maintain the electric atmosphere of an in-person hackathon that our community knows and loves, but also expand the ability to participate to hackers regardless of location.
Who can attend Technica?
Anyone who identifies as a marginalized gender including, but not limited to, cisgender women, transgender women, transgender men, non-binary individuals, gender neutral individuals, genderqueer individuals, agender individuals, pangender individuals, or a gender who are otherwise underrepresented in tech may register as a hacker! All ages are welcome. Additionally, all participants must follow the MLH code of conduct and Technica code of conduct.
How much does it cost to attend Technica?
Technica is FREE for all participants, thanks to our amazing sponsors! Participation includes a lot of free gear and swag!
What if I'm under 18?
Under 18 and still want to code with us? Don’t worry! Technica is very minor friendly; we have accommodations for participants under 18!
How do teams work?
You can work on a project on your own, or you can work with a team. Teams can be formed prior to the day of the hackathon with other participants, or at the team formation event before official hacking begins. You can meet other hackers in the Technica Hacker Facebook group and Slack workspace. Team size must not exceed four members, per MLH rules.
Who can I reach out to with questions or concerns?
If you have any special needs you feel our organizers should be aware of or other questions or concerns, please chat with us in the bottom right-hand corner or email hello@gotechnica.org.
How can I register?
Registration for Technica 2021 is open as of June 1st, 2021! You can register here.
