Tech-savvy Arrowmen learned how to counter cyber security threats at the OA Hackathon at NOAC 2024. Delegates learned from presentations, participated in a product ideation session, and a competition for Arrowmen of every coding skill level. Arrowmen were challenged to seek new bytes through coding as they learned how to build software.
The Hackathon began with a special lunch, paving the way for teams to form and dive into Hackathon. After lunch, teams collaborated on innovative solutions, supported by exciting programming opportunities and vendor presentations. The whole event culminated in a dinner that fostered creativity, networking, and fellowship.
“Hackathon gives scouts an opportunity to not only learn about the computer science industry but work with others,” said Mason Pryor, a member of the Hackathon staff.
Arrowmen also listened to a guest speaker from the Cyber Security and Infrastructure Agency, Charlie Marmon, who helped them think outside of the box to create software that helps their lodge and Scouting.
The finale on Thursday was where Arrowmen debuted their solutions to common Scouting problems. Some of the solutions involved a check-in tool for lodge events, an app to help new Arrowmen to learn about the Order of the Arrow, or even a tool to help keep track of tasks in an Eagle Scout project. Arrowmen later experienced an intuitive panel that featured presentations and sessions on topics ranging from AI, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity. The event culminated in an awards ceremony where we saw Arrowmen recognized and celebrated for innovation and excellence.
The Hackathon promised exploration on the forefronts of cybersecurity and technology. Hackathon is an unforgettable convergence of creativity, recognition, and discovery, inspiring Arrowmen to code the future of the OA.