➡️Who can attend?
All Ventura County high school students (Grades 9–12) are welcome. No experience necessary — just bring your curiosity and creativity!
➡️Can I come if I have no experience whatsoever?
Absolutely! Hackathon by the Sea is designed for all skill levels. Whether you're a coder, designer, speaker, or strategist, you have something valuable to bring to your team.
✅ Artistic? Help with logos and visuals.
✅ Outgoing? Be your team’s pitch presenter.
✅ Analytical? Dive into problem-solving and strategy.
Everyone contributes — no experience required!
➡️Is this still an overnight event?
Nope! This Hackathon is now a two-part event:
- Part 1: Boot Up is a full-day experience on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Part 2: The Showdown is a capstone showcase dinner on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
You’ll go home after each day — no overnight stay required
➡️ What happens during the December event?
Part 1 is a full-day immersive experience where students are teamed up upon arrival and dive into a series of hands-on, fun challenges. You’ll spend the day hacking your way through cyber-themed escape rooms and interactive activities designed to stretch your creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Breakout sessions will cover topics like:
- Intro to Cybersecurity (Beginner)
- Cyber Forensics (Advanced)
- Interpersonal & Pitch Skills
- Capture the Flag (CTF-style challenge)
You’ll also meet mentors and begin developing your team’s solution to a real-world problem.
➡️ Can I bring my own team?
This year, we’ll be assigning teams to ensure an inclusive and fair competition. You’ll be teamed up when you arrive — it’s a great way to meet new people, collaborate across schools, and build something amazing together.
➡️ What is the April event about?
Part 2 is your moment to shine! Teams will present their solutions at a showcase dinner in front of judges, peers, and industry professionals. It’s a celebration of months of collaboration and innovation.
➡️ Will I have a mentor?
Yes! Each team will be paired with mentors — including Navy partners and Moorpark College cybersecurity students — who will guide you from December through April.
➡️ Do I need to bring any equipment?
No, just yourself.
➡️ Do I need to prepare anything before the event?
Not required, but it helps! Think about a question or problem you’d love to solve. Having a pitch-ready idea can help your team get started faster.
➡️ Can I arrive late or leave early?
If you need to arrive late or leave early, email hackathon@vcoe.org so we can plan accordingly. We want to make sure you get the full experience!
If you have any questions that are not answered here, email hackathon@vcoe.org and we will not only answer you, but add the question to this page.