Empower Your Students. Inspire Future Innovators.
A one of a kind Minecraft Smart Manufacturing Hackathon hosted in partnership with Purdue University and funded by the Caterpillar Foundation.
Through immersive Minecraft Education experiences and hands-on challenges at Purdue University's Gateway Complex, students discover how AI, robotics, automation, data analytics, and sustainable engineering are transforming modern manufacturing and creating tomorrow's STEM careers.
Your Journey to Innovation
Students build future-ready skills while discovering exciting STEM careers and real-world applications of technology.
What Students Will Experience
Minecraft World
Explore Smart Manufacturing
Purdue Experience
Visit the Gateway Complex
Industry 4.0 Challenges
Innovation Problem Solving
Career Discovery
Explore STEM pathways & Innovation Showcase
Minecraft World
Explore a custom Minecraft Education world featuring smart factories, robotics, automation systems, logistics networks, and sustainable manufacturing concepts. Students embark on an immersive Minecraft Education adventure where they take on the role of a Purdue student participating in a special Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) program. Throughout the experience, learners explore purpose-built smart manufacturing environments, interactive labs, and real-world industry simulations designed to bring Industry 4.0 concepts to life. The world combines storytelling, problem-solving, and hands-on activities that encourage creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking while making complex manufacturing concepts accessible and engaging.
No Cost to Participating Schools
Transportation provided by GO Express Travel. Lunch will be provided, virtual professional development for educators will be arranged and classroom resources are included.
Hackathon Options
Fall Hackathon
November, 2026 | Teacher PD: Sept/Oct 2026
Winter Hackathon
February, 2027 | Teacher PD: Dec 2026/Jan 2027
Spring Hackathon
May, 2027 | Teacher PD: Mar/Apr 2027
Industry 4.0 Immersive Learning Experience Educator Resource
The Industry 4.0 Immersive Learning Experience Educator Guide supports educators in delivering a Minecraft Education journey through smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0 technologies, and future careers. It includes lesson overviews, facilitation resources, assessments, reflection activities, career exploration, and standards-aligned learning supports.