The Celebration of CNC Programming: Report on the 4th Bánki–Haas National Competition
In 2025, one of Hungary’s most prestigious professional events, the Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition, was held for the fourth time. The event was hosted by the Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering of Obuda University, Bánki Donát, with the aim of allowing engineering students to test their skills in a real industrial environment and to connect directly with the latest trends in manufacturing technology. Over the years, the competition has become a leading national forum where education, industry, and innovation meet.
Opening Ceremony and Supporters
The day began with registration and welcoming speeches. József Balogh, head of the organizing committee, and Dr. habil. Tibor Farkas, dean of the faculty, emphasized the importance of the competition in Hungarian engineering education.
The Gene Haas Foundation’s €20,000 sponsorship received special attention, as this contribution not only raised the professional standard of the event but also supported the education of future engineers.
Simon Vanmaekelbergh, representative of Haas Automation’s European Center, gave a presentation on manufacturing challenges and career opportunities, highlighting the key role of CNC programming in modern industry.
Afterwards, Dr. György Czifra, assistant professor and professional director of the competition, outlined the program and officially launched the contest.
The Online Preliminary Round
The first stage of the competition was held online, giving students from universities across the country the chance to compete remotely. Participants included:
- Obuda University, Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering
- University of Szeged, Faculty of Engineering
- University of Pécs, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
- Széchenyi István University
- University of Debrecen
- University of Pannonia
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics
Based on the online results, the six best teams advanced to the in-person final round.
The Final Round
In the final, students demonstrated their professional competence through several stages:
- Manual NC programming: contestants solved a programming challenge by hand.
- Team presentation and machine programming: creativity and technical expertise came to the forefront.
- CNC program error detection: the afternoon rounds tested quick problem-solving, teamwork, and technical knowledge.
- Drawing evaluation: precision and problem-solving skills were essential in the last task.
The jury — including Dr. György Czifra — evaluated performances continuously and summarized the results during the afternoon break.
Results and Awards
At the closing ceremony, the winning teams were announced:
- sCAMmers (Budapest University of Technology and Economics) – First place and overall champions
- SZECAM Senior (Széchenyi István University) – Second place
- SZECAM Rookies (Széchenyi István University) – Third place
Prizes for the top teams:
- Tickets to the 2026 Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix (for 4 participants)
- Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro 3D scanners
- Creality Ender 3 V3 KE and V3 SE 3D printers
- Creality Manual Turntable accessories
- eSUN PLA filaments (Bone White, Grey)
- Solid Edge training courses – beginner or advanced
- EDGECAM training – milling, turning, advanced surface milling, 5-axis programming
- Solid Edge graduate licenses – for 4 participants
- VIP industrial visits to partner companies:
- Evosoft Hungary Kft. – TinkerLab and Machinum Lab tour
- Audi Hungaria Zrt. – insight into CAM departments
- HTM Zrt., Székesfehérvár – roundtable with designers and programmers
- Walter Hungária Kft. – participation in Tech-Forum events
- Gift packages and wine for all teams
- Escape room vouchers (for 4 participants)
Sponsors and Professional Partners
The main sponsor of the competition was Haas Automation Hungary, led by György Péntek. Several key industrial partners also contributed to the success of the event:
- Evosoft Hungary Kft. – Krisztián Kardos, Senior Lead Software Engineer
- Enterprise Group – Attila Gyönyörű, CAM Product Line Manager
- Walter Hungária Kft. – Gábor Pusztay, Competence Manager
These companies provided not only financial support but also professional programs, training opportunities, and industrial visits as part of the prize package.
The Role of the Gene Haas Foundation
The financial foundation of the entire event — including the closing reception — was provided by the Gene Haas Foundation, whose grant was awarded to Obuda University through an open application process. This support made it possible to host the competition at a high professional level, with a rich program and appropriate prestige.
The Significance of the Competition
The Bánki–Haas CNC Programming Competition has grown into a major national event. It is more than a contest — it is a professional forum that builds community, bringing together students, educators, and industry partners to discuss the future of manufacturing.
The event helps young engineers engage with cutting-edge technologies during their studies and prepares them for real industrial challenges. The finalists not only demonstrated their expertise but also gained invaluable experience that will shape their professional development.
The prizes — from 3D scanners and printers to international training courses and Formula 1 tickets — all aimed to motivate and inspire students to continue learning and exploring.
The strong support of the Gene Haas Foundation and the involvement of Hungarian industrial partners — including Haas Automation Hungary, Evosoft Hungary Kft., Enterprise Group, and Walter Hungária Kft. — clearly show that the collaboration between Hungarian engineering education and international industry is growing ever stronger. This partnership ensures that the engineers of tomorrow graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also with real, hands-on experience.
The final evening’s shared dinner and informal discussions provided an excellent opportunity for participants to build connections, exchange ideas, and lay the foundation for future collaborations.
Conclusion
The 4th Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition was not just about the winners — it was a memorable and professionally enriching experience for all participants. The event once again proved that Hungarian engineering students possess the skills, creativity, and determination to compete at an international level.
Acknowledgements
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all staff members of the Department of Manufacturing Technology, whose professionalism, dedication, and precision made the 4th Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition possible. Their expertise ensured that every technical aspect of the event met the highest standards, offering students genuine engineering challenges.
Special thanks go to the Dean’s Office, whose staff played an essential role in organization and logistics. Their careful preparation, coordination, and ongoing support ensured the event ran smoothly and with the dignity it deserved.
The success of the competition was made possible by the combined efforts of both communities. Their cooperation and commitment are exemplary, showing how the collaboration of education, professional expertise, and institutional support can create a truly outstanding national event.
Dr. Czifra György
