Code Freeze 2025 speaker: Caroline Karanja

Are Hackathons Your Secret Sauce?

Abstract

Hackathons are more than just coding marathons; they are powerful tools for fostering collaboration, bridging knowledge gaps, and sparking grassroots innovation. At Hack the Gap, we’ve seen firsthand how hackathons create space for people to build connections, grow their tech skills, and tackle challenges in meaningful ways.

In this talk, we’ll explore how hackathons can become your organization’s secret sauce for addressing workplace barriers, solving product challenges, and gaining deeper consumer insights. You’ll learn practical strategies for implementing hackathons in your workplace, reimagining collaboration, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Biography

Caroline Karanja is a dynamic leader with a passion for equity, technology and culture. She leads Hack the Gap, an organization dedicated to creating pathways for underrepresented groups in tech through hackathons, bootcamps, and apprenticeship programs. With a passion for fostering inclusion and empowering diverse voices, Caroline has spearheaded initiatives that help individuals build connections, grow their skills, and thrive in technology careers. Her leadership has positioned Hack the Gap as a transformative force in bridging talent gaps and reimagining Minnesota's tech future.

Connect with Caroline:
Caroline Karanja headshot