Matthew Cavanaugh

Matthew Cavanaugh is a lifelong gamer, worldbuilder, and community organizer who thrives at the intersection of imagination and curiosity. With a background in STEM and a love for science and technology, Matt is drawn to the wonder of how things work. As the Convention Chair for Soonercon, he channels that passion into building inclusive, immersive experiences that celebrate fandom, creativity, and shared storytelling. Whether he's dreaming up new universes, organizing community-driven events, or expressing himself through artistic outlets like painting and writing, Matt’s work is fueled by wonder, creativity, and a desire to help others find their place in the story.

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1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma G

Replicators in the Making: A Beginner's Guide to 3D Printing

New to 3D printing? This panel covers the basics of the technology, from what's available to everyday consumers to the future possibilities of 3D-printed objects. Experts will walk you through the current options, provide insights on getting started, and explore the exciting developments just around the corner. Whether you're looking to print at home or learn about cutting-edge advances, this panel has you covered!

Moderator: Brian Russell

Panelists: Chad Albee, Rachel Strouhal, Brian Russell, Matthew Cavanaugh, Pete Dixon

11:00 PM | Location: Boomer A 18+

Erotic Fanfic Live Reading (18+)

Do you have a spicy fanfic you've been working on? Or maybe just one that's been written by someone else that's wildly inappropriate? Join us for a live reading of the best -- and most hilarious -- erotic fanfiction out there. From steamy Star Trek pairings to intergalactic love affairs, this panel is sure to be full of laughter, blushing, and maybe even some moaning (in the best way, of course).

Moderator: Black Nerd Rises

Panelists: Black Nerd Rises, Matthew Cavanaugh, Clayton Bell, The Alice of Hearts, starseeker.cos

Midnight | Location: Boomer B 18+

Shame: Confess Thy Sins (18+)

Attendees anonymously submit their wildest, funniest, or most degenerate confessions via phone app or cards, and the hosts read them aloud while offering commentary. Audience members can vote on their favorite confessions or react to live "polls" on similar experiences.

Moderator: Aislinn Burrows

Panelists: Matthew Cavanaugh, Phillip Drayer Duncan, Selina Rosen, Aislinn Burrows

12:00 PM | Location: Boomer A

CONventional Wisdom: Behind the Scenes of Running a Convention

Ever wondered what it takes to bring a convention to life? This panel takes you behind the scenes of con-running, where industry veterans share their stories from the front lines. From marketing and programming to IT, A/V, and volunteer management, hear the highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you're considering running your own con or just curious about the process, you'll get insider tips and a glimpse into the hard work (and sometimes chaos) that goes into making a successful event happen!

Moderator: Aislinn Burrows

Panelists: Amber Hanneken, CottonCandyPanda, Aislinn Burrows, Buck Berlin, Caleb Haldane, Matthew Cavanaugh

11:00 PM | Location: Boomer A 18+

AITA in Spaaaace! (18+)

Panelists share an AITA-style story from the perspective of a famous sci-fi character. Audience members guess which character the story is about and decide whether they're deemed an A-hole or not. Grab your thinking caps and get ready to play a game filled with plenty of laughs. (18+ Adult evening programming.)

Moderator: Amber Hanneken

Panelists: Caleb Haldane, Amber Hanneken, Matthew Cavanaugh, Jessica Kenney, Shay Griffith

4:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma HIJ presented by Fowler Automotive