TechXchange is quickly approaching and with the opportunity to co-present two sessions on my favorite topics, I am super pumped. Meeting again at a conference of this scale never disappoints.
Here are just some of the reasons why I am so looking forward to being there. You should be there too!
The People
First and foremost, it is *always* about the people and the new personal connections these conferences provide.
You would be (or may not be) amazed at the invaluable nuggets I have acquired in casual hallway or snack break conversations. Spontaneous conversations abound during lunch. Keep these conversations going, after hours while at the event and even well after the conference concludes.
To paraphrase Forrest Gump, attending a conference is like eating a box of chocolates, you never know who you’re going to meet.
Keynotes
Just take a look at the IBM executives who are scheduled to present keynote addresses. Their credentials alone are setting the stage for what will be broad expert perspectives on technology and overall industry trends. These are sure to be inspirational to all who attend.
Breakout sessions
This is where some of the “real” magic occurs. Breakout sessions provide deep-dive depth into specific topics, with access to experts who live everyday in the trenches.
I am proud to join as one of the speakers, co-presenting with the IBM Business Architect of Application Development and Systems Administration, Tim Rowe. Our first session focuses on the path towards IBM i application modernization, and the tools needed to get on that path. Our second session is a much closer discussion on REST APIs, the how’s and whys, and a discussion on actual customer case studies.
You can watch a brief video where I talk about these two sessions here.
Here is a link to our session abstracts, complete with dates and times.
Some pro tips
Having attended conferences for over two decades, I have learned a few things. Here are some tips that have helped me make the most of my attendance.
Plan ahead! Review the keynotes and breakouts you most definitely want to attend. Create your session agenda so you are not deciding in real time. Remember – the best seats go fast, and the most popular sessions will nearly always “sell out.”
Bring current business cards – and bring more than you would typically bring. You would be surprised how quickly you distribute them. Consider adding a QR code to your LinkedIn profile.
Update your LinkedIn profile – speaking of LinkedIn, having current information here is essential. And don’t forget about the very convenient way to share your profile in real time! Using the mobile app, go to your own profile. Next, clear your name from the search bar. You will then see a QR code icon on the right side. Click on that and voila, your very own QR code appears! Have the person you wish to connect with scan that and just like that, you’re connected!
See you there!