Neumont Hosts High-Stakes Hackathon

Neumont College recently hosted a 48-hour hackathon, hosted by the Program Chair of Software and Game Development degree, Ray Maple. Maple is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience developing video games for companies like Disney, Warner Bros, Nintendo, and Sony. The Hackathon included 16 teams competing under intense pressure to develop technical projects across several categories.  

The theme for this year’s hackathon: “A Better Tomorrow,” challenged students to develop products that improved the lives of others. The event’s timeline gave the participants only 48 hours to create and submit their projects. Faculty judges, Joe Shull, Program Chair of Artificial Intelligence Engineering degree, Ray Maple, and Omkar Terse, Instructor, were then given 24 hours to review and determine the winners.  

Categories That Drove the Competition 

Participants could enter one of several categories, each demanding a unique set of skills:  

📱 App Development 

🧠 AI 

💻 Hardware & 🤖 Robotics 

🎮 Entertainment & Games 

A Weekend of Innovation and Learning 

The weekend was filled with early morning brainstorming meetings, coding sessions running late into the night, and energy drinks fueling the creative process. Participants like Damian Lagunas recall struggling to get their team’s mobile application, SYNC, to connect: “We had all the parts to put together our project but struggled with making it work with each other. We realized that we had over scoped our project.”  

 Meet The Winners 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE - Richard Grover, Tyson Jenkins, and Josh Arbon created Waterlog. A neural network written from scratch in C++ that is trained on a water quality dataset. It can determine if water is safe to drink based on properties like pH and oxygen content.

APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT - Noah Delbridge and Darion Quarles submitted A Better Tomorrow. A domain designed to direct users to the right sources for help, eliminating the need to navigate through countless websites. Sources include help hotlines, shelters, and education centers. 

ENTERTAINMENT & GAMES - Jacob Leonardo developed the game Speederena. A combination of fast-paced racing and intense arena combat, challenging players to not only be the fastest but also the smartest on the track. The game features sleek, customizable vehicles that race through futuristic environments, filled with sharp turns, obstacles, and power-ups.  

The Hackathon pushed students to develop something useful in a short amount of time, proving they could hack it. Can you? 

Keep an eye out for future events! 

INSIDE THE RING: STACK OVERSPIN  

In the world of robotics, there exists a subculture of innovation, engineering, and sheer adrenaline: it is combat robotics. Fierce machines, meticulously crafted, engaging in high-octane battles where survival is determined by design, strategy, and a dash of luck. Introducing the Utah Combat Robotics Spring Fling 2024, where the spotlight shines on contenders like NeuRobotics Club and their bot, Stack Overspin. 

NEUMONT’S ROBOTICS CLUB (NeuRobotics) HISTORY 

Founded in 2021 by students Michael Rowland and Matthew Munoz-Ramirez, who were freshmen at the time, NeuRobitics got it’s start when the two decided to create a robot made from Legos and designed completely in Java.  They simply took the skills learned in their class and turned it into a fun hobby. Soon after, the club gained popularity and now is competing collegiately.  

The club even struck up a sponsorship with Make Salt Lake, a community maker space designed to enhance Utah's creative and tech communities by providing affordable access to tools and learning experiences. At Make Salt Lake there are dedicated workshops and tools available for members to utilize, such as a woodshop, metal shop, and a prototype lab where Stack Overspin was forged. 

WHO IS STACK OVERSPIN? 

Stack Overspin isn't just another combat robot; it's a testament to ingenuity and a crash course in learning. Crafted by students Michael Rowland, Matthew Munoz-Ramirez, Abigail Gerson, and Christian Grey, the 3 lb plastic weight bot embodies the concept of "meltybrain" – a relentless whirl of motion designed to outmaneuver and outwit opponents. Inspired by formidable predecessors like Project Liftoff and Blendo, the famous destructive bots, Stack Overspin aims to carve its own path in the arena, one rotation at a time. 

PLASTIC BEETLEWEIGHT DIVISION 

In Utah’s Bi-Annual Combat Robotics competition, there are multiple divisions: the Plastic Ants, the Ants, the Beetles and the Plastic Beetles. Competing in the 3 lb plastic beetleweight division, Stack Overspin finds itself in uncharted territory. Check out the competition here < Robot Combat Events>. With only a 3 lb weight limit and no metal allowed on the outside of the robot, NeuRobotics Club faced some challenges. 

One specific challenge almost cost the team the competition; three days before the competition both motors had collapsed! The wiring came out of place causing Stack Overspin to lose all control of movement. If this were to happen in the ring, consider Stack Overspin … a sitting duck. Watch all the behind-the-scenes moments and the action of the battle below. ⬇️ 

THE COMPETITION 

Win or lose, Stack Overspin's debut marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the NeuRobotics journey. With each competition, they'll refine their craft, hone their skills, and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of combat robotics. As the dust settles and the cheers fade, one thing remains certain: Stack Overspin and its creators are just getting started. Watch out, world – the underdogs are here to stay. 

Rewind The Reel with Screamboat Willie 

In the dynamic world of video game development, innovation and creativity often emerge from unexpected places. One such example is "Screamboat Willie," a captivating game with a terrifying twist, created by a group of Neumont students. Inspired by the team’s admiration for the classic Steamboat Willie, they developed this interactive game in under 10 weeks.  

With such an impressive design, instructor and Corporate Relations Manager Bret Wardle decided to take a go at completing this game. Bret, with a seasoned background in game and software development, having worked in the gaming industry for over 20 years, provided a thorough rating of Screamboat Willie.  

The Birth of Screamboat Willie 

The team behind this game, comprised of students with diverse skill sets, came together with a shared vision: to create a game that would stand out in the crowded indie game market. With a tight deadline of less than 10 weeks, they set out on a project that would test their abilities and push the boundaries of their dev skills. 

Game Concept and Mechanics 

The premise of "Screamboat Willie" is as intriguing as its name suggests. Set in a mysterious environment, your player must navigate through various challenges aboard a steamboat. The game combines elements of adventure, puzzle-solving, and strategy, offering a unique gameplay experience that keeps players on their toes. The art style is charming, reminiscent of early 20th-century animation, which adds a nostalgic touch while maintaining a modern appeal. 

One of the standout features of "Screamboat Willie" is its innovative use of sound. The game’s mechanics are intertwined with audio cues, requiring players to listen carefully and keep calm to navigate obstacles, solve puzzles, and avoid being heard.  

The Development Process 

Creating a game in such a short period is no small feat. The team had to efficiently manage their time, allocate tasks based on individual strengths, and maintain a constant flow of communication.  

The students utilized various tools and technologies to bring their vision to life. From game engines like Unity, to design software such as Photoshop and Blender, they employed a range of resources to develop and polish the game. Their ability to integrate different aspects of game development, from coding to design and sound engineering, is evident in the final product. 

If you’re looking for a unique and engaging gaming experience, "Screamboat Willie" is worth a try. Available, for free, on Steam. 

Showcasing Excellence

Six Students Compete in the 2024 Capstone Invitationals 

Capstone Projects are a hallmark of project-based learning, requiring students to apply their knowledge and skills to create and present a project to their classmates. These projects are graded by faculty and must be completed to advance to the next phase of their education. Capstone allows our students to demonstrate their technical prowess, creativity, and problem-solving abilities needed to complete their project, which must be completed in under 10-weeks. 

Once these projects are completed and presented, each respective program chair will select the best from their program to represent their degree at Capstone Project Invitational. Recently six exceptional students competed in the prestigious competition that highlighted their impressive projects. 

Introducing The CPI Finalists ⬇️ 

1. Carwise 

Abby showcased her project, Carwise, which involved creating an intuitive and user-friendly application that simplifies complex vehicle diagnostics. This application was created to educate vehicle owners and encourage at-home repairs to save on mechanic expenses. Abby's project stands out due to her attention to detail and commitment to improving accessibility, ensuring that her application is inclusive and easy to navigate for all users.

2. Mane Frame Photography 

Katie presented a groundbreaking dynamic web application that leverages the latest technologies to enhance performance and user interaction, even using the WCAG standards or Web Content Accessibility Standards. Katie's meticulous coding and innovative features demonstrate her deep understanding of modern web development and culminate in a web-based photography database with a western flair.

3. The Gemini Project 

MJ's project delved into the world of cybersecurity and information systems. By harnessing the power of cryptography, she built her photography website with Python, Django, ReactJS, and Axios, offering seamless text encryption into stenographic images using diverse ciphers like LSB, Vigenere, and Caesar.  

4. Brokie Studios ft. Tower of Odyssey 

Patrick's project focused on the project management of his company’s first release: Tower of Odyssey, a critical area in today's digital landscape. He created Brokie Studios with two Neumont alum and together they plan to develop a wide range of video games. Tower of Odyssey is a single-player, story driven action-adventure game.  

5. Goobin 

Platte developed an engaging and immersive game, Goobin, that utilizes artificial intelligence by using Behavior Trees and State Machines. Platte's project not only demonstrates his technical skills but also his creativity by integrating AR into practical applications, offering players an enhanced way to interact with the game. 

6. Dashtrac 

Xander designed and developed a warehouse and order management system that features automation and seamless integration with the production and warehouse teams. Dashtrac is already being used by companies like Harvest Meadow allowing Xander to test his skills in the real-world. 

These six students have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication through their Capstone Projects. Their achievements are a testament to the quality of education and the emphasis on hands-on learning at Neumont College of Computer Science. 

ROLLING OUT TWO NEW DEGRESS: BSAIE & BSAAI

We are pleased to announce the launch of our two new degree programs:  Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering.

get insights directly from the program chairs themselves and delve into their recent interviews below. ⬇️

Joseph Shull, Chair of the BSAIE program, shared his enthusiasm: 

With over a decade as a software engineer for a variety of consulting firms and large multinational organizations, Shull currently instructs several courses at Neumont including Databases 1 & 2, Mobile Application Development, and Web Based Software Projects.  

"I am most excited about the opportunity to work with students on such innovative and universally exciting technologies and ideas. I have been passionate about computing my entire life and have always loved working on new technologies, pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and finding new ways to solve problems. Nothing challenges what we do and how we do it more than Artificial Intelligence. I find it difficult to think of any technology as exciting and transformative as Artificial Intelligence, especially having had the opportunity to work on and teach it during its infancy! I am so excited to be able to shape a new curriculum that equips students with the skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of AI."  

Jeremiah Stroup, Chair of the BSAAI program, explains the necessary adaptation: 

A Neumont alumni with over 15 years of experience managing software development projects, Stroup previously chaired the Bachelor of Science in Business Technology Management program.  

“While Artificial Intelligence has been around for a while, we’re seeing the adoption of it become more intertwined with our day to day lives. Everyday consumers can apply this tech to their personal lives, their jobs, and industries. Chairing the BSAAI degree gives me an opportunity to help others be a part of this disruptive modern technology.” 

Who Will Excel in These Programs? 

Shull states: "The students who will excel in the BSAIE program are those who are passionate about problem-solving and technology and who are excited about AI. This includes students who already have an extensive background in computers and programming, but it also includes many students who have never coded a day in their life but are passionate about these ideas. That drive, coupled with our innovative and hands-on program, will enable these students to be leaders in our industry, driving the development of intelligent applications, transforming how we develop and maintain software systems, and solving exciting new problems in an AI-powered world." 

 Stroup echoes, success “in the BSAAI degree hinges on a passion for learning and applying new technologies to various complex systems and problems. Students here aspire to shape sophisticated intelligent systems that enhance human potential.” 

Career Opportunities for Graduates 

Graduates of the BSAIE and BSAAI programs can anticipate diverse career paths, from

• AI software developer,

• machine learning engineer,

• ata scientist,

• AI systems architect,

• research scientist,

• data engineer,

• data analyst,

• Ai engineer,

• database administrator,

• AI product manager,

• technical program manager,

• business analyst,

• ML engineer,

• technical account manager,

• project manager

And yes, there’s even more. Shull highlights the breadth of opportunities across sectors like: “Technology, healthcare, finance, and automotive industries, among others. Potential job roles include

• AI software developer,

• machine learning engineer,

• data scientist,

• AI systems architect,

• research scientist.

Additionally, given the program's strong emphasis on ethical implications and social impact, graduates could also pursue roles in policymaking or consultancy to ensure the responsible deployment of AI technologies." 

The Future of the Programs 

Looking ahead, Stroup projects future advancements: “in 5 years, I envision expanded mentorship opportunities between alumni and current students, aligning the BSAAI program even more closely with market and technological shifts.”  

Shull envisions Neumont’s programs becoming leaders in AI education: 

"The integration of theoretical foundations with practical, hands-on projects and interdisciplinary collaboration will empower our students to become innovators and leaders in AI…I believe that our timely introduction as one of the first educational programs of its kind, combined with these focus areas, will establish us as industry and thought leaders in the field of Artificial Intelligence for many years. It will also enable us to play a pivotal role in shaping how these technologies are used and continue to be developed." 

In conjunction to these new degrees, Neumont College has made the decision to no longer offer our Bachelor of Science in Business Technology Management and Bachelor of Science in Web Development degrees. We have adjusted our curriculum to absorb both degrees, so every degree’s standard curriculum involves elements of technology management and web development.   

The launch of these two new degrees is our next step in going all in on artificial intelligence as we continue equipping our students with the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly changing world of technology.  

DISCOVER LIGHTGONE 

In the ever-evolving world of indie games, a fresh and exciting title has recently emerged, capturing the attention of gamers and critics alike. “LightGone,” developed by a talented group of students, promises to take players on an unforgettable journey through a dark and enigmatic world. 

ENDURE THE DARKNESS 

LightGone stands out with its intriguing premise and atmospheric design. The game plunges players into a universe where light itself is a rare and precious resource. In this RPG you must “traverse eerie liminal locales and evade lurking monsters to unravel the mysteries of this chilling 2D game,” and lead your character, Ashley, to safety before the shadows consume you.  The game’s story, rich with mystery and emotional depth, explores themes of isolation, dread, and the sense of impropriety.  

The developers’ credit most of their inspiration of LightGone from two intense survival games: Undertale, for its top-down aspect and heavy story focus and Amnesia: The Dark Descent, for its puzzles and horror themes. 

Innovative Gameplay 

The puzzles in LightGone are cleverly designed, requiring both logic and creativity to solve. The game’s developers balanced challenge and accessibility, ensuring that players of all skill levels can enjoy the experience. Take for example, the rotatory lock and lights out puzzle. Team developer Valeria Arenas explains that the rotatory lock works like a real-life lock. It will check for the number of rotations and will unlock when the correct numbers are hit. But the lights out puzzle is randomly generated, “we knew there was a possibility for an infinite pattern, so we made a way to reset the puzzle through the mailbox.”  A shoutout to Edward Miller for his hard work on creating the prototypes for the levels and puzzles that were implemented with visuals and effects.

A Testament to Student InGENUITY 

The creation of LightGone is a testament of our student’s ability to innovate by demonstrating remarkable creativity, and technical skills bringing their vision to life. They used applications such as Aseprite for their visuals and assets, designed by teammate James Scott. All lighting effects and AI were created by Joshua Guerra using Unity’s Universal Render Pipeline (URP). And for audio, the team used a combination of MusicMaker, Audacity and, as Valeria calls it, a game developers’ best friend: freesounds.org. Both Valeria and Ethan Dixon collaborated to create their own foley sound effects! 

Join the Journey 

LightGone is now available on Steam, and it’s a must-play for fans of indie games and puzzle adventures. As you step into this dark mode world and strive to bring light back, you’ll not only experience a captivating story but also support the burgeoning talents of young developers. So, dive into the shadows, embrace the challenge, and discover the light with LightGone. 

Check out LightGone on Steam and be prepared to be amazed by what a passionate group of college students can achieve. 

CHESS CAPTAIN LEADS TEAM TO THE FINALS 

In an impressive debut, Captain, Collin Greiss led our Chess team to their first visit to the finals in NACE’s Starleague tournament. This remarkable achievement highlights not only Collin’s dedication to the game but also the supportive and vibrant community within the team. 

New Jersey ROOTS

Hailing from New Jersey, Collin’s journey into the world of chess began at home. “I first learned to play chess from my brother,” he recalls. The game quickly became a passion during his freshman year in high school, sparked by friendly but competitive matches with a close friend. “We started playing for fun, and since we were both highly competitive, it made me really start playing seriously.” 

Influences & Mentors 

While Collin hasn’t had a formal mentor in chess, the influence of his brother and high school friend were significant. Collin credits his success to both his brother who taught him the key principles which he follows today, and his high school friend, who he played against daily. These early influences laid a solid foundation for Collin’s growth as a player.  

From Casual Club to Esports Contenders 

Initially, the Chess team at Neumont College started as a casual club until members made the decision to play competitively and join Neumont’s Esports Program. This change increased the competitiveness of the players as well as the game dynamic considering they had to make the switch from in person to virtual play. “The challenge has always been getting enough members who want to play competitively,” Collin shares. Despite the hurdles, the team’s transformation into a competitive force in esports has been a testament to their dedication and love for the game. 

Preparing for major tournaments involves a mix of casual play and strategic mindset. Collin reveals his team’s preparation: “Before every game, we gather and play casually against each other. This gets us warmed up and in a good mindset.” This approach not only sharpens their skills but also reinforces the camaraderie and positive atmosphere within the team. “I love the general atmosphere the team gives off. Even if you are having a bad day, whether from chess or in general, my teammates are always there to improve it.” 

Advice for Aspiring Chess Players 

To those looking to follow their passions, Chess Captain Collin Greiss offers this advice: “Enjoy the game and play often. Chess is not all about studying; it’s about having fun and learning as you play. If you enjoy it, you will get better at it over time.” 

This student’s story is a powerful reminder of how passion, coupled with a supportive community, can lead to extraordinary achievements. His leadership has not only brought victory to Neumont College’s chess team but also inspired others to pursue their interests.  

Stay up to date with our Esports program by following us on Instagram!

Neumont’s Spring Game Jam 2024

The people have spoken!  Ray Maple, Game Dev Chair, heard your pleas and decided to host another Jam: Spring Game Jam 2024. More than 35 people participated, and 29 games were submitted. Talk about a turnout. 

WHAT IS IT? 

The Olympics for game developers, AKA Game Jams, where enthusiasts and so-called pros gather to churn out games at the speed of light. They work themselves to the bone, solo or in teams, to create something from scratch in a ridiculously short time frame. And let's not forget the cherry on top: there's always a theme they must fit into their creations, just to keep things spicy. 

The event attracted individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by their love for gaming. A Neumont alum also participated in this year’s Spring Game Jam – Mark Nusser, who is currently a software developer at WinMill Software. Mark had this to say about the event, “Game jams are an amazing opportunity to test your limits and see what you can create in a very short time limit, and Maple’s jams are no exception. I had so much fun and look forward to attempting a back-to-back victory in the next one!” 

The judging panel, comprised of industry professionals, faculty members, and the public, were tasked with voting for the winners across various categories. In the end, the standout games emerged victorious, earning recognition for their outstanding creativity and execution.  

WHO WON? 

Best Overall Game: LAB 374 

Description: Lab 374 is a puzzle game where you solve puzzles in each room with cubes. To get into a new room, you must collect cubes and put them on colored buttons so they can open their doors. There is some platforming within the game where you must guess which square is real or not. 

Best Graphic & Best Gameplay: BLOOD-DRIVE 

Description: Blood-Drive is a racing game where you attack other cars for fuel. The more fuel you have the faster you go, but if you run out you get slower until eventually…you blow up. 

Best Innovation: FAT RAT AND SPOUSE MOUSE 

Description: Fat Rat and Spouse Mouse is an obstacle game where you control two mice, the first is controlled with WASD and the other is flung with your mouse. Each mouse has a different obstacle to avoid: the WASD mouse dodges a cat’s paws and goes around a Lego path while the fling mouse dodges sticky traps. 

WHY WE DO IT 

The Neumont Spring Game Jam 2024 is not just a competition but also a celebration of creativity, innovation, and collaboration within the gaming community. It provides participants with a platform to learn, grow, and make connections with like-minded individuals. 

As the event ended, participants were left with a sense of accomplishment and inspiration, fueled by the experience of bringing their game ideas to fruition in a collaborative and supportive environment. With the success of this year's Spring Game Jam, anticipation is already building for the next installment, promising even more excitement and creativity. 

Want to see the games? Check out all the Spring Game Jam entries below! 

NEUMONT IS ALL IN ON AI 

At Neumont College, innovation isn’t just a buzz word; it’s a way of life. As technology continues to shape our world, Neumont remains at the forefront, evolving its curriculum to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce. We are excited to announce significant advancements in our academic offerings, placing Artificial Intelligence at the center stage. 

AI Integration Across Programs: 

We believe in the power of AI to revolutionize industries and drive progress. That’s why we’ve upgraded each of our bachelor’s degrees to include comprehensive courses in prompt engineering, machine learning, data visualization, and AI engineering. Whether you’re studying software development, computer science, or any other fields offered, AI is now an integral part of your Neumont experience. 

AI As Your Teacher: 

This summer marks a groundbreaking milestone as Neumont introduces a pioneering initiative: a full course taught entirely by AI. Guided by our expert faculty, students will delve into AI concepts, algorithms, and applications, experiencing firsthand the transformative potential of AI-driven education. 

Master AI: 

Looking ahead to fall 2024, Neumont is proud to unveil our latest academic offering: the Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence. Designed for forward-thinking professionals eager to lead in the AI revolution, this program equips students with advanced AI algorithms, strategic insights, and practical skills to drive innovation across tech and business landscapes. 

Join The AI Revolution: 

At Neumont College we’re committed to empowering our students to become masters of tomorrow’s technology. With AI integrated into every facet of our curriculum and groundbreaking initiatives on the horizon there’s never been a more exciting time to embark on your education journey with us. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push the boundaries of possibility and redefine the future of education, one innovation at a time. And there is more to come….

Shark Tank in Utah? No, It's The Utah Entrepreneur Challenge!

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Picture this: in a room filled with eager faces, buzzing with anticipation, are students from universities and colleges all over Utah such as BYU, UVU, Salt Lake Community College, and Neumont College of Computer Science, competing for a chance to invest in themselves. The Utah Entrepreneur Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute at the University of Utah and sponsored by Zions National Bank. Products and projects presented during the competition range from electric skateboards to software development to baby products. Only 20 teams make it to the final round for a chance to win the $30,000 grand prize as well as multiple awards and prizes ranging from $500 to $1000.  

THE TITANS OF TECHNOLOGY

Neumont College students submitted two entries to The Utah Entrepreneur Challenge, Stelle and Brokie Studios. Both projects began as individual Capstone Projects that evolved to have multiple contributing students on both teams.  

Brokie Studios is a game studio that specializes in developing fun and captivating video games. But building better games is just the first step, Project Manager, Patrick Switzer says, “as we set off on this adventure, we’re spreading our wings across social media platforms...Our goal is to build a community, one that’s as pumped as we are about our upcoming game [Tower of Odyssey]. We want to connect with players, share our progress and build excitement together.” 

The Stelle team created an AI-powered assistant that integrates directly into a user’s dev environment that helps review and debug code. Mabel Drumheller, one of the Stelle developers, explains how it works for coders: “all you have to do is type your question into Stelle’s search bar and it will give you all the information you need, at the level you need.” The program is designed to make coding easier by suggesting ways to make the code run more efficiently and highlighting any errors. 

Both Stelle and Brokie Studios emerged victorious with Judge Awards, totaling to over $5000! 

NEXT STEPS

Stelle is currently available on the Visual Studio Code Extension Store, but team member Lorenzo Franco says they intend to “reinvest their prize money into scaling up their integration platform and re-launching in a more stable capacity.” They also have plans to scale up the API to integrate with the developing web and mobile applications. As a ton of research and development is happening Matthan Cantrell, lead developer, says they are in the works of developing their own language processing model that will allow them to create something unique. Stelle will also be creating a community through Discord to monetize and expand as a business.  

Brokie Studios is already in development with their game “Tower of Odyssey.” It’s a solo journey through a world teeming with detail and action, where every decision alters the story’s path – creating a multitude of storylines. The team at Brokie Studios has a brand promise to “create games that are unlike anything players have experienced before, leaving a mark that lasts long after the screen goes dark. 

Get more details and hear from both teams below. 

Neumont Hosts Winter Game Jam 2024

Every year our Game Dev program hosts a Gam Jam on itch.io where current students and anyone in the Neumont community are invited to showcase their creative and coding skills by building out a game in less than 72 hours. The challenge lies not only in developing a playable game, but also in sticking to a theme revealed at the start of the event.  
 
Participants got to leverage their skills in coding, art, design, and sound to bring their concepts to life. Whether crafting intricate narratives, designing gameplay mechanics, or selecting immersive soundtracks, each team threw down their best projects. 
 
A total of 25 games were submitted, each offering a unique and creative experience. Anyone who participated in the event could vote on their favorite categories to include Neumont faculty members. After a grueling 72 hours the votes were cast.

Awards Went To —

Best Overall Game & Best GraphicS

Time Slice by Jacob, Kian Frodente, Snake_EvE_12, & PipoPleading

Description: Use your telekinetic powers to try and break out of the 5-minute time loop. Players assume the role of Aika, a young woman trapped in a mysterious cave, reliving the same day over and over again. Armed with a sword that can pierce through obstacles and enemies, players must navigate through the cave's shifting pathways and use strategic mobility to escape.

Best Gameplay

Bento 0.5 by zenyuwu 

Description: This game centers around creating bentos within a time limit while also dealing with a mischievous cat that tries to steal ingredients. Players must balance crafting delicious bentos with keeping the cat at bay in this fast-paced challenge.

Best Usage of Theme

Big Blast of Ultimate Muscle by Kyle Wadas, Bennie, Maxmilion Flaugher, & Jayden Smith 

Description: In this game, you play as an anthropomorphic fish, focusing on building up stats like strength, stamina, friendship, and health. Your goal is to click at the right time in rhythmic challenges to maximize your stats and unlock different endings.

Best Innovation

It Won’t Last 5 Minutee by Tolik708 

Description: Here, you're tasked with preventing an explosion in a power plant within a tight five-minute window. The gameplay revolves around pressing or holding various keys to maintain control and avoid catastrophe.

Want to see more games? Check out the entries.

LLAMA LEGACY: THE DIGITAL DETECTIVE — LINDSEY OROZCO

In the world of cybersecurity, where digital warriors protect virtual frontiers, a hidden gem has been found – a female cybersecurity student whose journey began in the unconventional corridors of hacking forums. Meet Lindsey Orozco, a trailblazer whose fascination with computer science leads her on a path to use her skills for a noble cause – finding missing people. 

THE EARLY SPARK

Lindsey’s story begins in her childhood, where her curiosity for technology first began. Growing up Lindsey found herself intrigued by the intricate world of coding and cybernetics. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a passion as she dove into the depths of the internet by exploring various hacking forums. In her sophomore year of high school, Lindsey was introduced to Trace Labs a nonprofit organization aimed to help investigations of missing persons. It was this experience that molded Lindsey’s future. The ability to help others through technology opened a new way of thinking. Unlike many who associate hacking with malicious intent, Lindsey saw an opportunity to leverage her skills for good and soon she became captivated by the potential to use technology to solve real-world problems.  

ADVOCATING FOR ETHICAL HACKING

Driven by an innate desire to help people, Lindsey became an advocate for ethical hacking. Her journey led her to the vibrant hacker community, 801 Labs in Utah, where she found a like-minded network of individuals eager to explore ethical hacking. Events organized by 801 Labs included not only games but also opportunities for learning and teaching, fostering an environment of collaboration and skill-sharing. Inspired by the book “Breaking And Entering: Extraordinary Story of a Hacker Called Alien,” Lindsey sees hacking as a means of freedom and self-expression.

WHY NEUMONT?

It was evident that Lindsey needed a degree program that matched her enthusiasm for cybersecurity. Neumont College, with its fast-paced and project based curriculum, provided the perfect fit. Lindsey enrolled at Neumont College and is on track to graduate alongside her peers with a bachelor's degree in computer information systems (and still before many of them) due to Neumont’s three-year degree program.  

PASSIONATE INVOLVEMENT IN CYBERSECURITY CLUB

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Lindsey immersed herself in Neumont’s Cybersecurity Club, taking on roles as the Events Coordinator and Client Relations Coordinator. Her commitment goes beyond campus, as she volunteers at cybersecurity events and seminars across Utah, leveraging opportunities to gain insights and advice from industry mentors. Currently pursuing the Security+ Certificate from CompTIA she aligns her studies with confidentiality, integrity, and availability – the Triad Triangle.  

FUTURE ASPIRATIONS

On track to graduate in 2025, Lindsey envisions a career as a penetration tester, with a desire to work internationally. Her dream job is not limited to a specific sector in cybersecurity – government or private – if the position allows her to help others, she believes she is in the right field. Guided by the philosophy that to be a hacker, one must think like one, Lindsey is poised to make significant contributions to the cybersecurity world. 

As she continues to immerse herself in the world of ethical hacking, Lindsey stands as an inspiring figure, paving the way for the next generation of cybersecurity enthusiasts. Her story reminds us that unconventional paths often lead to extraordinary destinations, and that hacking, when approached with responsibility and ethics, can indeed be a force for good.  

Interested in earning a degree in Cybersecurity? Get an inside look of what our degree entails below. 

Chess Club Is Making Moves In The World Of Esports!

In a groundbreaking move that is set to reshape the landscape of competitive chess, our Chess Club has announced its integration into the official Esports Program. This strategic decision marks a significant milestone for the Chess Club as they gear up to compete in the upcoming season of the NACE Starleague tournament, a platform traditionally dominated by video game enthusiasts. 

THE FUSION OF CHESS AND ESPORTS

Traditionally, when one thinks of esports, images of fast-paced video games like League of Legends or Overwatch come to mind. However, Neumont College is pioneering a new era by bringing the intellectual and strategic prowess of chess into the esports realm. This bold move not only breaks the mold but also showcases the versatility and inclusivity that the esports industry can offer. A major goal that Esports President, Eric Heil, aims to achieve with the program in 2024. 

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NACE STARLEAGUE:

The National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) Starleague tournament is one of the most prestigious collegiate esports competitions in the country. Known for attracting top-tier talent and fostering a competitive yet collaborative environment, NACE provides a platform for colleges and universities to showcase the skills of their esports teams. 

For our chess team, competing in the NACE Starleague represents a monumental leap forward. It not only validates the strategic depth and skill required in chess but also underscores the growing recognition of chess as a legitimate and engaging esports discipline. 

BENEFITS OF THE INTEGRATION

The decision to join the official Esports Program brings many benefits to the chess team. First and foremost, it opens new avenues for collaboration and camaraderie among students who share a passion for competitive gaming. The members will now be able to tap into the resources and support structures provided by the larger esports’ community at Neumont College. 

Furthermore, the integration into NACE Starleague provides the chess team with a broader platform to showcase their talents. This exposure brings recognition to the players and contributes to breaking down stereotypes associated with chess as a slow and static game. The dynamic and intense nature of esports tournaments will undoubtedly shed new light on the excitement that chess can generate. 

LOOKING AHEAD

As the chess team prepares for the upcoming NACE Starleague season, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. The move to officially join the Esports team signals a paradigm shift in the perception of chess, elevating it to a status that aligns with the fast-paced and dynamic world of competitive gaming. 

The Neumont community, along with chess enthusiasts and esports aficionados alike, eagerly awaits the next season of NACE Starleague! Team Captain, Colin Greiss, believes he and his team will “…take this next competition with a trophy right off the bat!” This historic fusion of chess and esports has the potential to redefine the boundaries of both worlds, creating a unique and inclusive space where strategy and intellect take center stage. 

Follow our esports journey. We announce matches, livestream, and post updates on our Esports Instagram page.