Description
Student cluster competitions are often where future HPC practitioners first encounter the realities of systems design, optimisation, teamwork, and operating under pressure. They also create communities that extend well beyond the competition floor itself. This informal breakfast meetup invites past competitors, prospective participants, mentors, sponsors, and supporters to gather ahead of the main conference programme for conversation, networking, and collaborative play. Alongside breakfast and discussion, attendees will take part in a fast-paced tabletop cluster design challenge that reflects real HPC trade-offs across compute, storage, networking, power, budget, and operational disruption. The session is designed to encourage interaction among students, alumni, industry, and community organisers, while creating space to discuss broader questions about accessibility, onboarding, mentorship, sustainability, and the future of student competitions in HPC. No prior competition experience is required. Whether you are curious about joining a future team, interested in supporting student initiatives, or simply want to meet others involved in the community, all are welcome. Prizes will be awarded during the challenge session.