Sacramento State Inaugural AI Hackathon
Sacramento State University hosted their first AI Hackathon, led by Hashem Jaber, ASI Engineering and Computer Science Student Director, and Cameron Law, Executive Director of the Carlsen Center. The event saw participation from over 60 students across 12 teams, culminating in 10 compelling pitches on topics spanning security to accessibility.
Event Overview
The hackathon unfolded across two key dates: starting on March 29th and concluding with presentations on April 5th. It was a testament to the participants' dedication to leveraging AI for solving pressing issues.
Innovative Solutions
The two winning teams are:
First Place ($750 Prize): SafeGuard AI – Proposed using surveillance through AI, making passive cameras proactive by using the YOLOv8 model trained on 800 images for instant weapon detection.
Second Place ($250 Prize): APEX – Enhanced computer accessibility and inclusivity by enabling hands-free control via head/eye movements and voice commands, breaking down barriers for those with physical limitations.
Many of the teams that participated will continue to work on their idea. With a little hard work and some luck, they be able to achieve success in the AI goldrush.
About Rich Foreman
Rich Foreman is the founder of KidneyLuv which develops solutions for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Patients (CKD). He is also the COO of IGH Naturals. Previously, as founding CTO, Rich led the team that developed the CordicoShield / CordicoFire Wellness App. Cordico was honored with the Sacramento Innovation Award in 2021. After achieving a 7 digit ARR, Cordico was acquired by Lexipol in 2020. Rich has a BS in Industrial Engineering from the University of Washington, an MPA from Troy State University and was an officer in the U.S. Navy.
Rich co-authored his book, "Tap into the Mobile Economy." Rich's blog was listed in Top 20 Marketing Mobile Blogs of 2014. He has been featured on KCRA3, NEWS10, 1170 Tech AM PowerDrive, Business Radio Money 105.5, SiliconIndia, the Sacramento Business Journal, and the Sacramento Bee. Rich is also the Founding Director of the Sacramento Chapter of Startup Grind and served a term as Utility Commissioner for the City of Folsom. Rich is a regular contributor to TechWire.net and StartupSac.com. Rich was the Co-founder of Apptology which was named Small Business of the Year in 2014 by the Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber.
