The Four Corners Science and Computing Club (4CSCC) was honored to partner once again with Chevron to host the student hackathon at the 2024 American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference, held in San Antonio, Texas. Taking place on the evening of October 3, 2024, this event marked the second collaboration between 4CSCC and Chevron, following a successful partnership in 2023.
Founded in 2021 and based at Northern Arizona University, 4CSCC is a regional initiative designed to build interest and skills in computing and scientific technologies among Native American and other underserved students in the Four Corners region. The 4CSCC focus on hands-on learning, integrating tools such as the Raspberry Pi, BBC micro:bit, and environmental sensors into lesson plans for middle school through college-level students. Through partnerships with universities, tribal schools, and national organizations, 4CSCC works to bridge the digital divide and promote STEM engagement in Indigenous communities.
This year’s hackathon brought together over 80 high school and college students from across the United States and Canada—including participants from as far away as New York. Accompanied by chaperones and educators, students gathered for a five-hour session that emphasized creativity, teamwork, and community-driven innovation.
The AISES Hackathon began with introductions to the Chevron and 4CSCC teams, followed by demonstrations of the 4CSCC Raspberry Pi Mobile Kit, BBC micro:bit activities, and environmental sensor curriculum. Students were then challenged to work in teams to identify an environmental issue affecting their community.
The prompt encourages them to propose innovative, tech-driven solutions with both local relevance and broader environmental impact. Teams tackled real-world topics such as air quality monitoring, water filtration systems, and wearable technology for environmental awareness. Projects were presented to a panel and evaluated based on creativity, feasibility, and community impact, using a scoring rubric developed by Chevron and 4CSCC.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Chevron and AISES for inviting 4CSCC to lead this important student engagement session. Events like this enable 4CSCC to connect with students and educators well beyond the Four Corners, while also supporting our mission to foster Indigenous participation in STEM. The AISES National Conference, the largest annual gathering focused on advancing Indigenous people in science, technology, engineering, and math, also provided valuable opportunities for professional networking and future collaboration.
To learn more about the American Indian Science and Engineering Society and their mission, please click here to visit their website.