About the Midwest Collegiate Computing Conference & Center for Program Assessment DBA MWC3 Foundation

The Center for Program Assessment (CPA) is dedicated to advancing educational program evaluation and student development through collaborative initiatives. One of our flagship efforts is the Midwest Collegiate Computing Conference (MWC3), an annual event designed to provide hands-on learning, networking, and competition opportunities for college students in computing and information systems disciplines.

MWC3 was inspired by the success of the former AITP National Collegiate Conference (NCC), which demonstrated the value of student competitions and industry engagement. However, barriers such as high travel costs and misalignment between computing and business schools created a need for a regional alternative.

Founded with startup support from the Grand Rapids AITP Chapter and Grand Valley State University’s College of Computing, MWC3 was established as an independent nonprofit to facilitate broader participation and simplify sponsorships from schools and businesses. This structure ensures the conference remains accessible and sustainable, with a geographically centralized location to minimize travel burdens.

MWC3 brings together a diverse group of participants each year, including:

• 5 Colleges/Universities Co-Sponsor the Foundation
• Over 100 students eager to test their skills and learn from industry professionals.
• Approximately 25 faculty/Staff members who serve as mentors, judges, and session leaders.
• An average of 10 employers/vendors Co-Sponsor the Foundation, often bringing multiple representatives to showcase career opportunities, cutting-edge technologies, and industry insights.

All organizers are volunteers, reinforcing MWC3's commitment to accessible, high-quality learning experiences.

The conference features industry-relevant student competitions, which can be completed individually or in teams of up to two participants, in areas such as:

• Cybersecurity - Identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities.
• Java & Python Development - Solving real-world programming challenges.
• Database Design - Creating efficient, normalized databases.
• Microcontroller Fundamentals with Arduino - Hands-on embedded systems projects.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) with ScrimmageSIM - Business strategy simulations.

MWC3 also provides workshops and breakout sessions, open to both students and educators, which can also be attended in teams of up to two participants. Topics include:

• Data Analytics - Techniques and tools for interpreting and visualizing data.
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning - Hands-on applications and industry trends.
• Web Development & UX Design - Best practices for modern website and app development.
• Emerging Technologies - Insights into blockchain, cloud computing, and cybersecurity threats.
• Industry Career Panels - Discussions with professionals on career paths and job market trends.

Since its inaugural event in 2018, MWC3 has evolved into a premier regional computing conference, fostering student development and industry connections. Despite the 2020 cancellation due to COVID-19, the event successfully resumed its annual conference in 2023.

MWC3 is now expanding its reach into K-12 education. Starting in 2025, the conference is offering professional development credit for high school teachers who attend its workshops through Michigan’s State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECH). The long-term goal is to extend these workshops directly into local schools, providing on-site training and computing-related learning opportunities for both students and educators.