What Is Hack the Coast?
Hack the Coast is the Gulf Coast's community-driven cybersecurity conference — a first-year, grassroots event built to connect students, practitioners, and community members across the region. From Jacksonville to New Orleans, we're creating a gathering place for the Gulf Coast cyber community.
A Production of IT Gulf Coast
Hack the Coast is organized under IT Gulf Coast, which is committed to strengthening the technology and cybersecurity ecosystem along the Gulf Coast. IT Gulf Coast provides the organizational backbone, community relationships, and regional vision that makes this event possible.
Complementing ITEN Wired
Hack the Coast is designed to complement — not compete with — the broader ITEN Wired ecosystem. Think of it as a feeder event: a regional, community-scale gathering that introduces new voices to cybersecurity and prepares them for larger stages. We grow the pipeline. ITEN Wired scales the impact.
Why Hack the Coast Exists
Grow the Talent Pipeline
The Gulf Coast needs more cybersecurity professionals. We're creating an accessible entry point for high school students, college students, and career changers to explore cyber careers and connect with the community.
Connect Students & Practitioners
Too many students graduate without knowing anyone in the industry. Hack the Coast bridges that gap — putting learners and practitioners in the same room for real conversations and real mentorship.
Hands-On Learning
We believe in learning by doing. Breakout sessions, practical demonstrations, and interactive content are the backbone of this event — not passive keynotes and vendor pitches.
Get In on the Ground Floor
This is a first-year event, and we're proud of that. No legacy bureaucracy. No entrenched corporate sponsors calling the shots. Just a community of people who believe the Gulf Coast deserves a cybersecurity conference that's accessible, practical, and genuinely community-driven. Help us build it.