UT Hook ‘Em House at SXSW

The University of Texas at Austin is gearing up for South by Southwest (SXSW) with two days of dynamic panels, live music, and special programming. Hook ‘Em House will take center stage at Austin’s legendary nightclub, Antone’s, on March 7 – 8, 2025. The event promises an exciting lineup of thought-provoking discussions, cutting-edge tech talks, and stellar musical performances.

Hook ‘Em House will be the central hub for all things UT, showcasing the university’s pioneering work in tech, quantum science, sports, lifestyle, and much more. This year, attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, live music by up-and-coming artists, and exclusive events to celebrate the creativity and innovation emerging from the UT community.

Panels and Thought Leadership

The Hook ‘Em House program will cover a range of timely and relevant topics. Panels will explore the future of quantum computing and its potential impact on everyday life, the revolutionary role of AI in the energy industry, and how technology is transforming the sports fan experience. UT Austin’s leading academics and entrepreneurs will dive into these pressing topics, sharing insights into how these innovations are shaping the future.

A few highlights include the Quantum Leaps panel, which will explore the advancements in quantum computing and how collaborations between universities and startups are driving progress. Meanwhile, the Energy & AI – The Power Couple discussion will focus on how AI is revolutionizing the energy sector and the potential challenges and opportunities this partnership brings.

Other engaging panels will include a deep dive into Austin’s future as a tech hub and discussions on the intersection of AI and music poster art.

Live Music and Performances

Hook ‘Em House isn’t just about intellectual discussions – it’s also a celebration of Austin’s vibrant music scene. Each evening will feature performances from renowned musicians, with headliners Mobley (Friday, March 7) and Shakey Graves (Saturday, March 8) set to take the stage. Attendees can enjoy daytime performances from UTalent Records artists Nicholas Challier and Brooke Michelle, along with a special appearance by the Mariachi Paredes de Tejastitlán.

Additionally, KUTX 98.9 FM will provide high-energy DJ sets throughout both days, ensuring the vibe remains electric as guests explore all that Hook ‘Em House has to offer.

Special Events and Networking Opportunities

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Hook ‘Em House will host a special breakfast event on March 8, featuring inspiring conversations with pioneering female entrepreneurs like Tiffany Chen, who transformed Tiff’s Treats from a college startup into a national phenomenon. Attendees can connect, enjoy breakfast, and participate in interactive stations that celebrate female empowerment in tech and business.

On top of the panels and performances, there will be multiple networking opportunities for creators, influencers, and industry leaders. Creator Connect will bring together some of Texas’ most innovative content creators, including social media sensations Jungmin Kang and Kenzie Elizabeth, for an afternoon of insights into building a sustainable brand in the dynamic creator economy.

The Full Schedule

Friday, March 7

• The University of Texas Longhorn Band Leads Parade
  • Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St at 10 a.m. || No badge required
• Musical Performance by Nicholas Challier
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 1:00 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Live Podcast Recording with 3rd & Longhorn
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 1:45 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Panel: Quantum Leaps: Universities and Startups Driving Quantum Innovation
  • Antone’s (Upstairs) at 2:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Discussion: Artificial Illustration: A.I. and Technology in the World of Music Poster Art with Armadillo World Headquarters
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 3:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Panel: TEXAS: At the Heart of Tech’s Future
  • Antone’s (Upstairs) at 4:00 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Musical Performance by Mobley
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 8 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized

Saturday, March 8

• International Women’s Day Breakfast
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 9:30 a.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Panel: Energy & AI – The Power Couple
  • Antone’s (Upstairs) at 11:30 a.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Creator Connect: Celebrating Women Creators & Influencers
  • Antone’s (Upstairs & Downstairs) at 12:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Panel: Hook ‘Em Horns 2.0: Tech-Powered Brand Building and Fan Engagement
  • Antone’s (Upstairs) at 2:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Musical Performance by Brooke Michelle
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 3:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Musical Performance by The Mariachi Paredes de Tejastitlán
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 4:30 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized
• Musical Performance by Shakey Graves
  • Antone’s (Downstairs) at 8 p.m. || Badge holders prioritized