TechHorizonU’26

Innovating the Future of Technology at Utica University

March 27, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Utica University

Presented by:
Department of Computer Science at Utica University

Computer Science at Utica University

Schedule

Time	Event	Location
10:00 - 10:15 a.m.	Inaugural Ceremony	206 Thurston Hall
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.	WebVenture: Web App Workshop	206 Thurston Hall
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.	IdeaPioneers: Pitch Your Vision	205 Thurston Hall
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.	ProjectPioneers: Innovations Unleashed	206 Thurston Hall
2:30 - 3:00 p.m.	PyQuest: The Python Battle	B10 Hubbard Hall
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.	Prompt Master	B10 Hubbard Hall
4:30 - 5:00 p.m.	Valedictory Ceremony	Macfarlane Auditorium

Sessions / Competitions

Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Participation: Individual
Prizes: 2 Winners

This hands-on workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of web application development and rapid prototyping. It is designed for beginners as well as students looking to strengthen their practical skills. No prior experience is required; beginners are welcome. Build your own web app without having to master the technical details of HTML, CSS, and Javascript.

Workshop (1 hour): participants will learn fundamentals of web development and apply a framework to create web applications using the Python programming language.

Web App Challenge (1 hour): At the end of the workshop, a theme will be revealed, and participants will take part in a friendly competition to create a web application using their newly acquired skills. This is a chance to apply what they’ve learned while showcasing their unique perspectives and creativity.

Tools and Format

Tool used: Python programming language.
Laptop recommended (limited systems may be available)
The session will cover fundamental web development concepts, prototyping, and hands-on practice

Rules and Evaluation

External resources may be used for learning and reference purposes only
Copied code or AI-generated solutions are not permitted
Judging will be based on:
1. Creativity
2. Functionality
3. Usability
4. Presentation quality

Time: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Participation: Individual or Team (maximum 3 students)
Prizes: 2 Winners

IdeaPioneers is a start-up pitching competition where participants present original ideas addressing real-world problems. There is no predefined theme, allowing full creative freedom. Innovation and clarity are key!

Presentation Requirements

Each team must clearly address the following:

Problem statement
Proposed solution
Technology used
Potential impact
Optional enhancements such as prototypes, wireframes, or visuals

Time Allocation (per team)

3–5 minutes: Presentation
1–2 minutes: Q&A with judges

Judging Criteria

Innovation and originality
Feasibility and practicality
Clarity of communication
Overall impact and presentation quality

Plagiarism or AI-generated presentation content is strictly prohibited.

Time: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Participation: Individual or Team (maximum 3 students)
Prizes: 2 Winners

This event provides a platform for students to showcase academic, technical, or independent projects, including capstone projects, master’s-level work, or personal technology initiatives. From demos and prototypes to actual builds, share your achievements with the community.

Presentation Presentation must include:

Project overview and objectives
Technologies, tools, or platforms used
Working model, prototype, or live demonstration
Key outcomes or results
Future scope or potential applications

Time Allocation (per team)

3–5 minutes: Presentation
1–2 minutes: Q&A with judges

Judging Criteria

Originality and innovation
Technical depth
Clarity of explanation
Practical relevance and impact

Time: 2:30 – 3:00 PM
Participation: Individual
Prizes: 2 Winners + Coding Rewards

PyQuest is a fast-paced Python challenge designed to assess logical reasoning and programming fundamentals.

Competition Rules:

Duration: 30 minutes
Question format includes multiple-choice and coding-based problems
Internet access, external help, and AI tools are not allowed
The highest score determines the winner; a tie-breaker round will be conducted if required

Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Participation: Individual
Prizes: 2 Winners + AI Creativity Awards

Prompt Master focuses on learning how well-crafted prompts influence AI-generated images and creative outcomes. Put your prompting skills to the test by recreating visual content.

Event Structure:

Demo Session (20 minutes): Introduction to prompt what they are, how to craft them, and the difference between a bad prompt and a good prompt.
Image Recreation (40 minutes): Three images will be displayed, 10 minutes per image. Participants are required to:
1. Carefully analyse each image
2. Use AI tools to regenerate it
3. Try to replicate the original image exactly
4. Submit both the final prompt and the recreated image

Note: There are no limits on the number of prompt attempts.

Submission and Evaluation

Participants must submit the final prompt and the recreated image before the allotted time is up.
Judging will be based on:
1. Visual similarity to the reference image
2. Effectiveness and clarity of prompt construction

Event Rules

Please note the following general rules apply to all events:

All participants must complete registration prior to the event.
All participants must check in at the registration area in Thurston Hall to collect their conference badge and event materials before proceeding to any competition venue.
Participants may be asked to provide student ID or registration confirmation.
Participants are required to report to the venue at least 10 minutes before their scheduled event time.
Participants who arrive after their scheduled start time may still be allowed to compete; however, no additional time will be granted, and they must finish within the originally allotted event period.
All participants are expected to maintain professional conduct throughout the event. Disruptive, abusive, or unsage behavior can result in removal or disqualification.
Any form of cheating, plagiarism, impersonation, or misrepresentation will result in immediate disqualification. This includes outside help or use of AI where prohibited.
Judges’ decisions are final and binding.
Event schedules, formats, and prize structures are subject to change based on participation and operational requirements.
Participants are responsible for bringing their own laptops, chargers, and required materials unless stated otherwise. Technical issues with personal devices do not justify extra time unless approved by organizers.
The organizing committee is not responsible for loss or damage to personal belongings.
The organizing committee reserves the right to interpret and enforce the rules in unforeseen circumstances. The committee also reserves the right to make final determinations o all matters related to event eligibility, conduct, scheduling and rule interpretation.