Build It with AI: A Hands-on Vibe Coding Workshop

Unlock what’s possible when practical problem solving meets modern AI tools. This two day, immersive workshop is designed for students, builders, and professionals who want to understand how AI actually works in practice — not just in theory.

Through guided instruction, live demos, and collaborative build sessions, participants will learn how to turn real problems into AI assisted solutions and working prototypes using a workflow known as vibe coding. No technical experience is required; all you need is curiosity and a willingness to experiment.

Submit your application by Monday, March 16. Spots are limited and pre-work is expected of participants.

What You'll Learn:

  • What AI assisted development looks like in real workflows
  • How to translate everyday problems into buildable AI solutions
  • The fundamentals of vibe coding and when to rely on human intuition
  • How to navigate common model errors and when external intervention is needed
  • How to quickly produce a proof of concept (POC) using modern AI tools
  • Collaboration strategies for debugging, refining ideas, and improving outputs

You’ll leave with:

  • A working prototype (or the foundations of one)
  • Hands on experience with AI tools and workflows
  • A certificate of completion
  • Eligibility for gift card prizes during the final demo session

Workshop Schedule

Day 1: Friday, March 27

Location: CBB 522

12 p.m.: Welcome & Program Overview

  • What this workshop is
  • What this workshop is not
  • How to get the most out of the next two days

12 p.m.: AI in Practice + Vibe Coding Foundations

  • What “AI in practice” actually looks like
  • Why AI matters for rapid prototyping
  • Introduction to vibe coding
  • Turning a problem into:
    • an AI assisted solution
    • a workflow
    • a prototype
  • Tool overview & workflow walkthrough
  • What to expect when vibe coding:
    • common model errors
    • when you’ll need external intervention
    • strategies for debugging with or without technical background

2 – 4 p.m.: Guided Pre Build + First POC

  • Check your setup and tools
  • Begin building your first framework or proof of concept
  • Personalized support as you get hands-on
Day 2: Saturday, March 28

Location: CBB 522

10 – 11:30 a.m.: Guided Build Session - Deepen your work from Day 1 and refine your solution with guided support

11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Lunch Break, lunch provided

12 p.m.: Mentors Arrive

12 – 3 p.m.: Open Build Lab

Work independently or with mentor support on:

  • Debugging
  • Concept and architecture clarification
  • Tools and workflow help
  • Prototype refinement

3 – 4 p.m.: Final Demos + Celebration

  • Show-and-tell session: share your product or prototype
  • Feedback from instructors and mentors
  • Certificate distribution
  • Gift card awards

Who Should Attend

This workshop is ideal for:

  • Students exploring AI for the first time
  • Anyone curious about prototyping with AI
  • Early stage builders with ideas but limited coding experience
  • Designers, analysts, or domain experts who want to integrate AI into their workflow

No prior technical background is required — just bring your laptop and your curiosity.