MCU and the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) are teaming up to run a four-day hackathon focused on using AI and machine learning to solve real problems in military training and education. The event runs 15 to 18 September 2026, with participants working in person at either MCU in Quantico or NPS in Monterey. This is open to more than just Marines, but if you have a background in data science, software development, or military training and education, this is worth a look.
Heads up: Applications close at 2359 on 14 August 2026, and you must be able to attend in person at one of the two locations.
Who it affects
This is open to Marines (active and reserve), government civilians, sister-service members, and industry or academic partners. There is no rank restriction mentioned. The event is designed for people who fit into one of three roles:
- Hacker: You build things. AI, ML, data science, software development, or related technical background preferred.
- Subject Matter Expert (SME): You know the training and education problem space. You define use cases and guide the technical team.
- Support: Administrative and logistical support to keep the event running.
If you are a reservist with a relevant civilian-sector tech background, the Hacker track is a natural fit.
What you need to do
- Review the event info and apply at the registration link below.
- Select the role category that fits your background (Hacker, SME, or Support).
- If you are submitting a use case or dataset, plan to coordinate with the hackathon planning team to move that material onto the authorized platform before the event.
- If selected, sort out TAD/TDY funding with your parent command. Travel and funding are not covered by the event. That is on you and your command.
Apply here:
https://meeting.mcele.usmc.mil/e5ejwa8j6f0k/event/event_info.html
Accepted participants will be notified by email no later than 21 August 2026.
Key dates
- 14 August 2026 (2359): Application deadline
- 21 August 2026: Latest date to receive acceptance notification
- 15 September 2026: Hackathon Day 1, opening remarks and team formation (in person at MCU or NPS)
- 16-17 September 2026: Team development and prototyping
- 18 September 2026: Final presentations, judging, and recognition
The official version
This is MARADMIN 350/26. It references the TECOM Campaign Plan 2025 and the Training and Education 2030 initiative. A related event, the Modern-Day Marine 2026 AI Forum Hackathon, was announced in MARADMIN 131/26.
POC for MCU: Mr. Sean M. Rugge, MCU_EDTECH@USMCU.EDU, (703) 432-5259.
POC for NPS: Maj Robert J. Fusco, ROBERT.J.FUSCO@NPS.EDU.
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.