ISSA Chicago Chapter MINDHACK 2026

ISSA Chicago Chapter MINDHACK 2026

Event Abstract: MindHack 2026 is a student powered innovation challenge designed to empower the next generation of thinkers and problem solvers. The mission of MindHack is to help students critically evaluate real world AI use cases and design thoughtful solutions without relying on technology, internet access, coding or AI tools.

The event’s vision is to foster independent thinking, innovation, teamwork, public speaking and ethical problem solving in a high energy and inclusive environment. Students will form teams of up to five, receive an assigned AI use case and collaboratively develop a presentation-based solution using logic, creativity and human judgment. Each team will present their solution to a panel of industry judges, with every participant playing a defined role in the presentation

AGENDA

     8:30AM –  9:00 AM | Registrations & Breakfast

     9:00AM –  9:05 AM | Assemble in the Auditorium    

   9:05AM – 09:20 AM | About ISSA Chicago & Keynote Speaker Introduction  

   9:20 AM – 10:00 AM | Keynote Speaker – Dean Klein

 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Rules, Guidelines, and Team Assembly

 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Mind Hack 2026 Competition Begins

   12:30 PM – 1:00 PM | Lunch Break

     1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Mind Hack 2026 Competition Concludes

     3:00 PM – 3:10 PM | Introducing the Judges

     3:10 PM – 5:00 PM | Team Presentations to Judges

     5:00 PM – 5:30 PM | Dinner Break

     5:30 PM – 5:40 PM | Assembly in the Auditorium

      5:40PM – 6:00 PM | Introducing the Final Judges

     6:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Top 5 Teams Presentations to Judges 

     6:30 PM – 7:15 PM | Top 3 Winning Teams Announced & Awards Ceremony    

     7:15 PM – 7:45 PM | Wrap-Up

Key Takeaways for Students:

• Network with students from multiple universities Building meaningful and Lasting connections
• Understand the risks of over-reliance on technology and the importance of human judgment and oversight
• Learn how to evaluate AI use cases responsibly across education, work and society without relying on AI tools
• Strengthen public speaking, presentation and collaboration skills through role based teamwork
• Gain guided mentoring from industry professionals focused on thinking, reasoning and ethics

Registration

To participate, registration is required and can do so here - https://app.tickettailor.com/events/issachicago/2052701

Eligibility:  Current students and students who graduated after June 2025 are eligible to participate.

Two types of registration

1. Register team (max 5 people)
2. Individual registration and ISSA will assign you to a team

Interested in serving as an Industrial Mentor for this event? Must have 5 years of Industry Experience. Please complete this form

Keynote Speaker: Rich Klein, Dean, Illinois Tech, Stuart School of Business,

Email Address: rklein6@illinoistech.edu, 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/richkleinphd/

Topic: AI Revolution

Topic Abstract: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the manner work is conducted across diverse industries. From data analysis to client communication, artificial intelligence tools are profoundly reshaping roles, workflows, and decision-making processes. However, in the absence of explicit guidance, we risk misusing AI, resulting in inaccurate outputs, compliance breaches, or missed opportunities for innovation.  ISO/IEC 42001 standard, Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS), provides a practical framework for responsible and impactful artificial intelligence utilization. It seeks to ensure accuracy, accountability, and long-term value creation. How do we transcend superficial shortcuts and employ artificial intelligence as a strategic partner for productivity, problem-solving, as well as personal and organizational advancement.

Interested in joining the ISSA Student Initiative Group? Join us ISSA Chicago Student Linkend Group