USC Viterbi Information Sciences Institute (ISI) is excited to announce its participation in LA Tech Week, taking place from October 13-19, 2025. Located in the heart of Silicon Beach in Marina del Rey, California, ISI is a world leader in the development of advanced information processing, computer and communications technologies, and the birthplace of core Internet technologies like email.
We invite innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts to a series of events throughout the week.
All events are completely free and provide a perfect opportunity to connect with LA’s thriving tech community. However, space is limited, so make sure to register early before we reach capacity!
Events
Astrobee Returns to Flight: Re-igniting Robotic Research and Innovation on the ISS
Monday, October 13, 10am
With Arkisys at the helm and USC and universities across the country on deck, Astrobee takes flight again – bringing fresh momentum to robotics, science and innovation for next generation of ISAM aboard the International Space Station.
New Space Race: Inside the Minds Fueling Humanity’s Next Leap
Monday, October 13, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
The race to space is no longer confined to government agencies—it’s an arena where visionary companies, startups, and researchers are redefining what’s possible for humanity’s future beyond Earth. Join this thought-provoking panel, moderated by Dave Barnhart, as industry leaders share how they are tackling the technological, commercial, and ethical challenges of the new space age. From satellites to sustainable exploration and interplanetary ambitions, this conversation will dive deep into the innovations and bold ideas shaping humanity’s next giant leap.
Lab Tours
Tuesday, October 14, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us for an exclusive tour of the world’s most advanced quantum computer. This is your chance to see the machine that has demonstrated quantum effects, a feat that’s revolutionizing everything from cryptography to artificial intelligence. Operating at temperatures colder than the vacuum of space, this quantum computer is a true marvel of modern engineering. See the lab that is building small satellites that are getting launched into space. This group just had some of their recent technology for docking with space objects tested on the International Space Station. Hear about the work being done to address the cyber security threats that we are facing today. Learn about the Deter and Sphere cyber security testbeds that are transforming the way that cyber security research is being done. This tour is more than just a peek at cutting-edge hardware—it’s a journey into the unknown, a glimpse at the next frontier of human innovation. What you see here today will shape the technology of tomorrow.
Thank you to our event sponsor: D-Wave Quantum Inc. https://www.dwavequantum.com/
Inside the Minds Building the Machines That Will Change Everything
Tuesday, October 14, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
AI is rewriting the rules of the game. Step inside the minds of the visionaries building the machines that will disrupt industries, redefine human potential, and reshape the future. Moderated by AI trailblazer Yolanda Gil, this panel pulls no punches on what’s coming next.
Thank you to our sponsor: Newmark
Digital Civics @ USC and Beyond: Positive AI
Wednesday, October 15, 11am - 12pm
Inside the Minds Bending our Reality
Wednesday, October 15, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Quantum computing isn’t just the next leap in tech—it’s a complete reshaping of what’s possible. Join us for a high-energy panel that explores how quantum breakthroughs could upend industries, accelerate discovery, and bend the very fabric of our reality. Moderated by Haley Weinstein Founder at Stealth Startup, this conversation will take you inside the cutting edge of the quantum revolution.
Thank you to our event sponsors: JP Morgan, Newmark, Stifel | Venture Banking!
Unleashing American Drone Dominance
Thursday, October 16, 11:30am - 1:30pm
Inside the Minds Building the Robots That Will Run the World
Thursday, October 16, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Autonomy isn’t on the horizon—it’s here. Driverless cars are logging miles every day in Los Angeles, self-driving trucks are moving freight across the Southwest, robots are retrieving data from oil fields, drone swarms are moving from labs into live deployments, and there’s even a robot serving popcorn at the Tesla diner. These systems are already reshaping how we move, deliver, and defend. But scaling autonomy at this level raises profound challenges—ensuring safety, earning public trust, navigating regulation, and deciding who controls the future of these machines. Join moderator Karl Jacob, entrepreneur and strategic advisor to USC’s Information Sciences Institute, for a high-energy discussion with leaders in autonomy on how to push the frontier while tackling the hard questions that come with building the robots that will run the world.
Silicon Beach Mixer
Thursday, October 16, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Join us for an opportunity to network at USC ISI Rooftop with local start-ups in the heart of Silicon Beach. We are excited to have the USC Racing team showcasing an IC and EV car. There will be opportunities for collaborations, music, food and an open bar. Must register to attend.
Thank you to our event sponsors JP Morgan, Newmark and D-Wave Quantum Inc.
Vercel/USC Hackathon
Thursday, October 16 and 17, 10am
Are you interested in a career with AI/ML? Learn how to build an AI Agent with MCP and A2A in a few hours? Join us in an asynchronous buildathon at USC in building experiences for and with nonprofits in our community!
D-Wave Hackathon
Friday, October 17, 10am
Join us for a full day in Marina del Rey featuring a keynote from Emile Hoskinson. Following the keynote, participants will take part in an interactive hackathon designed to introduce the fundamentals of quantum programming. Guided by D-Wave experts, attendees will learn how to run a program on a quantum computer and explore real-world applications—an ideal opportunity for anyone curious about the potential of quantum computing and how to get started.
FAQ
How does Tech Week work?
Tech Week is a decentralized tech conference presented by a16z. Every Tech Week, hundreds of events take place across the host city - from hackathons to panel events, community meetups and more. Every event is organized individually by startups, companies and VCs.
When is Tech Week 2025?
Tech Week will return to NY, SF and LA during the following dates: New York (June 2-8), San Francisco (October 6-12), Los Angeles (October 13-19).
How can I attend Tech Week?
Each event during Tech Week is hosted by an individual company. Once we launch the official calendar, you can browse events and apply to attend and individual event hosts will be in touch about your registration status. Stay tuned for the 2025 calendar launch in early Spring - and don’t forget to register your email address below.
Sponsors
Sponsoring USC's Information Sciences Institute Tech Week presents a unique opportunity to showcase your brand at the forefront of innovation. This premier event attracts a diverse audience of tech enthusiasts, industry leaders, researchers, and students, all eager to engage with the latest advancements in technology. By becoming a sponsor, you align your organization with cutting-edge developments, foster meaningful connections with top-tier talent, and gain visibility among influential players in the tech world. Don't miss the chance to be part of something groundbreaking!
