Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
A. You can reach out to aecconference@thorntontomasetti.com
Q2. The ticket I want is sold out! Can I get a ticket still?
A. If a ticket is sold out, it's sold out. Please do not email our event team regarding these requests.
Q3. What's the refund policy?
A. Full refunds are issued up to 7 days before the event. Refunds will not be issued past this period.
Q4. I don't live in the eastern time zone, what are my options to attend the event?
A. Anyone is welcome to purchase a ticket and attend regardless of time zone! When organizing virtual events, it is difficult to accommodate all time zones and we understand this may limit individuals who want to attend. Because our team is in New York, we need to stick to the eastern time zone for logistics. All sessions will be recorded and available on YouTube after the event is over.
Q5. Do I have to pay for any software?
A. No!(And maybe Yes) There is no paid software required to attend the Symposium, Hackathon, or Masterclasses. However, individual masterclasses may have individual requirements which will be posted in their description.
Q6. What about Slack? Do I need this?
A. Yes, yes! We heavily rely on Slack to connect our attendees to each other. There will be private channels set up specifically for this event that you will utilize.
Q7. Do you have student discounted rates?
A. Yes. Contact aecconference@thorntontomasetti.com from your Edu account to receive it.
Q8. Who do I tell about receiving accommodations?
A. AEC Tech strives to ensure that all programs and facilities are welcoming and accommodating to all individuals. We ensure reasonable accommodations for all event participants. Please communicate any accommodation requests or special needs when you register (e.g. dietary restrictions, service animal relief area, interpreter, braille, etc.). The deadline for accommodation requests is 3-weeks before the event. After this date, we accept reservations but cannot guarantee accommodation requests.
Hackathon
Q9. Doesn't 'hackathon' mean coding? What if I don't code?
A. The term ‘hackathon’ is defined very broadly as creative problem solving or an event of any duration where people come together to solve problems. Common hackathons are mainly designed for people who know how to code, but you don’t need to be a coder to attend The Hackathon. Whatever your skill, if you have an idea that you would like to develop, you are welcome to participate. We are confident that with the help of other Hackathon participants, you will find a valuable way to contribute to the event.
Q10. What type of projects will people work on during the Hackathon?
A. We hope to encourage a diverse range of projects geared towards the AEC industry. A list of ideas for possible projects that Hackers have initiated is available on the hackathon Slack group. If you don’t see a project that you would like to join, or if you would like to pursue an alternative approach, you can do so on the brainstorming channel of Slack!
Q11. I've never been to a Hackathon before. Can I still participate?
A. YES! We have plenty of attendees who are new to hackathons. We have staff and industry experts around to help you get involved with a team. Don't be afraid to jump in!
Q12. I have a project that I’m already working on. Can I bring it to the Hackathon?
A. Yes. However, you cannot reuse code from a previous idea and adding new features to existing projects is allowed. Awards judgement will be based on what you add to your project during the Hackathon. If you already have a project underway, please submit your ideas ahead of time in the Slack group. Your work may inspire others – we encourage you to team up to develop solutions together!
Q13. Can I build a team for the Hackathon before the event?
A. Sure! However, we encourage everyone to come and meet new people during our Lightning Round. We also have a Slack group where you can begin pitching ideas and meeting people prior to arriving. If you're attending with multiple people at your company, we suggest you all break out in different teams to get the ultimate networking and skill building.
Q14. Do I have to attend both days?
A. Participation during both days is certainly not required. We understand and respect that you may have obligations and/or responsibilities that may require you to leave early. We encourage everyone to partake in the event to the best of their abilities. With this in mind, please inform your team(s) of any schedule limitations at the start of the Hackathon.
Q15. What do I need to have to participate?
A. You will need a laptop (or tablet), power supply, and internet connection.
Q16. Who will own the project I produce?
A. You will own your work. We encourage the open-sourcing of projects and very much would like to exhibit results after the event. That said, it’s your call.