Dream Machine
Hackathon
Design data dashboards that help thousands understand manufacturing. Real exhibit. Real data. Real impact.
The Dream Machine
An interactive manufacturing exhibit where visitors witness real-world automation powered by Rockwell Automation technology.
Real-World Scale
Your dashboards could help explain this complex system to thousands
The Challenge
Transform complex manufacturing data into clear, engaging visualizations that educate museum visitors about industrial automation.
What You’ll Build
Data visualization dashboards for Discovery World’s Dream Machine exhibit using real machine data and Microsoft Fabric. Make manufacturing accessible to everyone.
The Impact
Your dashboards could be deployed in a public museum, educating thousands about manufacturing, data science, and automation. Real visibility, real impact.
Your Team
Teams of 5 students from UW-Milwaukee and Marquette. Ten teams total. Open to all, targeting data science, analytics, engineering, CS, math, UX, and business majors.
The Support
Industry mentors guide you throughout. Access to real exhibit data, collaborative environment, and professional feedback from experts in the field.
Why Participate
This isn’t a typical hackathon. It’s a portfolio project employers actually care about.
Portfolio Impact
A deployed solution for a real museum—not a class project. LinkedIn-worthy work with tangible outcomes.
Interview Advantage
Discuss real stakeholders, constraints, and user needs. The kind of experience employers look for.
Public Visibility
Thousands of museum visitors could interact with your work. Create something that educates and inspires.
Data Storytelling
Learn to transform numbers into narratives—a critical skill that sets you apart in any data role.
Industry Mentorship
Direct guidance from professionals in manufacturing, data science, and technology. Build valuable connections.
Win Prizes
Compete for $10,000 in prizes while building something meaningful that advances your career.
Timeline
February 13-27, 2026 | Kickoff and finale held at Discovery World
2026
Application Deadline
Teams submit applications. Brief form covering team composition and interests. Decisions announced shortly after.
Evening
Kickoff
Meet mentors, explore the Dream Machine, access data sources, and start building. In person at Discovery World.
13-27
Build Phase
Two weeks to design, develop, and refine your dashboards. Collaborate with your team and consult mentors.
Evening
Finale
Present to judges, showcase your work, and celebrate. Winners announced and prizes awarded at Discovery World.
Is This For You?
You’re a Strong Fit If:
- You work with data, visuals, or dashboards
- You want a real portfolio project
- You enjoy creative problem-solving
- You prefer team collaboration
- You’re curious about manufacturing
You Don’t Need:
- Prior hackathon experience
- Advanced coding skills
- Microsoft Fabric experience
- Manufacturing knowledge
- UX design background
Ready to Create Real Impact?
Apply with your team by February 1, 2026
Apply NowTeams apply together. Selected teams receive detailed information after applications close.