Factory Data to AI: Analytics & Innovation Hackathon

Hands-on Databricks Workshop + Guided Hackathon with Xorbix Build with Real Manufacturing Data and Databricks. Databricks is one of the premier Data and AI platforms on the market and one of the world's largest startups. Location: 1403 University AveOpen to: UW–Madison studentsCash prizes for top teamsFood and drinks providedLimited to ~50 participants Overview Join the UW Tech Exploration Lab and Xorbix for a hands-on workshop and hackathon exploring how manufacturing data can be used to support analytics and AI-driven insights. The day begins with a practical workshop led by engineers from Xorbix, who will walk participants through how production data is ingested, modeled, and analyzed using modern data platforms such as Databricks. In the afternoon, student teams will apply what they’ve learned in a guided hackathon, working on a manufacturing-style scenario and pitching their solutions. This event is designed as a small, interactive experience where students can work directly with practitioners and get hands-on exposure to real-world data workflows. What You’ll Do During the event, participants will: • Learn how manufacturing data pipelines are structured• Explore how operational data is turned into analytics and KPIs• Work with example production datasets• Collaborate in teams to develop a prototype or analytical approach• Present their ideas and insights during final pitches Hackathon Challenge Teams will approach the problem like data and AI consulting teams, exploring how analytics or machine learning could support operational decisions. Example areas may include: • Analyzing downtime patterns• Exploring quality or defect trends• Developing operational dashboards• Prototyping an AI assistant for manufacturing operations Teams will present their ideas and approach at the end of the event. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top team pitches. Agenda 10:00 – 10:30 AMWelcome + introduction to manufacturing data challenges 10:30 AM – 12:30 PMInteractive Workshop with XorbixData ingestion → modeling → KPIs → applied use cases 12:30 – 1:00 PMLunch + networking 1:00 – 5:00 PMGuided HackathonTeams work through a challenge with mentor checkpoints 5:00 – 5:30 PMTeam pitches + judging Who Should Attend Students interested in: AI • Data Engineering • Machine Learning • Analytics • Operations • Applied AI Students from engineering, computer science, data science, and business are especially encouraged to attend. No manufacturing background is required. What to Bring • A laptop• Curiosity and willingness to collaborate• Basic familiarity with Python, data tools, or analytics is helpful but not required Hosted By Xorbix TechnologiesA leading Databricks consulting firm based out Milwaukee, Wisconsin will a strong history of solving complex business challenges with modern and innovative solutions. UW Tech Exploration LabWe’re helping shape the next generation of startups coming out of UW–Madison by connecting students with real industry challenges and opportunities to experiment with emerging technologies.