Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Hack the Coast.
Q:What is Hack the Coast?
Hack the Coast is the Gulf Coast's community-driven cybersecurity conference. It's a one-day event featuring breakout sessions, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities for students, practitioners, and community members. It's a production of IT Gulf Coast.
Q:Who should attend?
Anyone interested in cybersecurity — high school students, college students, early-career professionals, seasoned practitioners, educators, and community members. Whether you're just getting started or you've been in the field for years, there's something for you.
Q:Is it beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. We specifically seek out beginner-friendly and student-accessible content. You don't need to be an expert to attend — you just need to be curious.
Q:Are high school students welcome?
Yes. We actively encourage high school students to attend. Hack the Coast is designed to be an entry point for the next generation of cybersecurity professionals on the Gulf Coast.
Q:Is this part of IT Gulf Coast?
Yes. Hack the Coast is a production of IT Gulf Coast, which provides the organizational backbone, community relationships, and regional vision for the event.
Q:Is this the same as ITEN Wired?
No. Hack the Coast is a separate, complementary event. Think of it as a feeder and precursor to ITEN Wired — a regional, community-scale gathering that feeds into the broader ITEN Wired ecosystem. They work together, not against each other.
Q:Where is it located?
Hack the Coast takes place at Cowork Annex — 13 Palafox Place, Suite 200, Pensacola, FL 32502. Located in the heart of downtown Pensacola.
Q:When is the conference?
May 9, 2025. Doors open at 8:00 AM. The event runs through 4:00 PM.
Q:Will there be breakout sessions?
Yes. Breakout sessions are a core part of the Hack the Coast experience. You'll choose from multiple concurrent sessions covering topics like red team, blue team, cloud security, AI security, OSINT, career development, and more.
Q:Will there be a CTF?
Yes — Capture the Flag is one of our signature first-year events. The CTF runs all day alongside the main sessions, so you can jump in and out between talks. Challenges will span web exploitation, cryptography, OSINT, reverse engineering, and miscellaneous categories. Solo players and teams are both welcome.
Q:What is the Lockpick Village?
The Lockpick Village is a hands-on area where you can learn the basics of lock picking from experienced practitioners. It's a beloved tradition at hacker conferences and a great introduction to physical security. No experience required — equipment is provided. It runs open all day.
Q:How do I apply to speak?
Visit our Call for Speakers page. We welcome proposals from industry practitioners, educators, students, and community builders. First-time speakers are encouraged.
Q:How do I become a sponsor?
Visit our Sponsors page or contact us directly. We welcome sponsors of all sizes — local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations are ideal partners.
Q:What should I bring?
A laptop (especially for hands-on sessions), a charger, curiosity, and optionally business cards for networking. Lunch will be provided.
Q:How much does it cost?
We're committed to keeping Hack the Coast affordable and accessible. Student tickets will be free or very low cost. General admission pricing will be announced soon.
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