Where can students test their Photoshop skills against their peers then race quadcopters on an obstacle course a few hours later?
The same place they can compete in capture-the-flag-inspired security hacking competitions and Shark Tank-style IT business pitches: Wilmington University’s East Coast Reboot.
Now in its second year, the competition is being held this weekend from May 1 to 3. It may be hosted by WilmU, but it’s open to high school and college students alike from across the region.
“This is open to everyone,” said Scott Shaw, who chairs both WilmU’s game design and development program as well as its video and motion graphics program. “It’s not just Wilmington University students. It’s much bigger than just the university.”
Shaw spearheaded the initiative to get WilmU a SXSW-esque competition for those who don’t want to travel to Austin to nerd out.
“I don’t want to have to go to SXSW to experience all this stuff,” he said. “Let’s do it here.” So, with the support of Wilmington University and its alumni association, Shaw organized East Coast Reboot.
Judged by active professionals in each respective field, there will be 13 competitions over the three-day event, including:
- Best 3D Project
- Film Race (students have 48 hours to create a film that meets certain criteria)
- Photoshop Fight Night
- Best Design Piece (design a logo that meets a given theme)
- Capture the Flag (protect your network against hackers, aka competitors)
- Best Photograph (Overall and Photojournalism)
Winners of each competition will receive prizes ranging from gift cards to tablets.
There are also networking opportunities, and students are encouraged to bring their resumes and/or portfolios for constructive review. Registration is $10, including food, drink and a nifty East Coast Reboot T-shirt.
Knowledge is power!
Subscribe for free today and stay up to date with news and tips you need to grow your career and connect with our vibrant tech community.

WeWork approached physical space as if it were virtual — which led to the company’s downfall

Delaware, let's celebrate: You picked these 5 winners for your 2023 Technical.ly Awards

Technical.ly just hired an entrepreneur turned public media exec to lead our newsroom
