8 April 2025

For the third time, the hike (University Incubator for Entrepreneurship) organised a two-day AI Bootcamp at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences - and once again there was a great deal of interest: university members from a wide range of fields immersed themselves in the fascinating world of generative artificial intelligence.

Real people - and their AI-generated LEGO twins: The 3rd AI Bootcamp at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences not only brought new tools, but also plenty of creative energy.
(Photos: Frank Einicke, Tina Bergknapp & ChatGPT)

Under the proven leadership of Thomas Herwig (Lab Operations Manager) and Jonas Mielke (Technology Engineer), the bootcamp not only offered a wealth of expertise, but above all practical applications, intensive testing and numerous aha moments. Whether creating podcasts at the touch of a button, the automated generation of graphics based on complex data, personalised voice recordings or developing their own custom GPTs - the participants were able to try out the latest tools directly and systematically develop their use of AI.

"New knowledge, new tools, new thinking nodes - how are you supposed to stay away?" summarised one participant with a smile. Despite prior knowledge and regular exposure to AI technologies, many participants were impressed by how rapidly developments are currently taking place.

Tina Bergknapp, Head of University Communications and multiple bootcamp participant, also emphasises the importance of the format for personal and professional development:

"Those who don't keep up will be left behind - this applies to each individual as well as to the university as a whole. The boot camp not only provides insights into the current state of the art, but also encourages us to think bigger: Where is the journey going? And how can we help shape it?"

In addition to the technical possibilities, the critical discourse was not neglected. Opportunities and risks, particularly in relation to data protection and data sovereignty, were discussed intensively - with the university's data protection officer, Sabine Ohrdorf, directly among the participants.

The special thing about the format is that it brings together people from a wide range of backgrounds - from studying, teaching, administration, research and project work. This creates a variety of perspectives on the potential of AI in studies, teaching, communication and organisation.

With the motto "Get Inspired. Learn. Create.", the hike remains a central driving force for innovation and future topics at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences. In addition to the boot camp, the university incubator offers year-round formats such as workshops, lectures and events relating to start-ups, future technologies, sustainability, new work and design thinking.

Whether and when a fourth edition of the boot camp will take place has not yet been finalised. But one thing is clear: the interest and demand for low-threshold, practice-orientated AI formats is unbroken - and the hike has once again proven to be an indispensable source of inspiration.