The history of women in computing has largely been lost, like the histories of factory workers who built the first cars. Yet, women invented programming, were the original developers for the ENIAC, created assembly language and developed the first compiler (not to mention the term “compiler” and “bug”), and were instrumental to the development of many seminal programming languages. So what happened? It’s a drama that’s equal parts cultural excavation and celebration. In this talk, Brenda Romero digs up this fascinating history, explores what happened, and looks at how the artefacts of this legacy still affect computing and its growth today.

Large crowds full of strangers. Many sounds. Senses on overdrive. A large, noisy conference is the antithesis of what we introverts prefer and crave. Even being remote isn't always a plus - this little black box you call camera and these features of meeting random people can be just as daunting. You can relate?

If yes, you're just like me and 30-50 percent of the population, as research suggests. Wait, you might think, even me, as a speaker? Yes, this still fits together: Let me show you how you may start to enjoy conferences, even if you are not as much of an extrovert as you think you need to be.

One of the powerful ways to speed up your journey to success is to emerge yourself in the right environment - community, which can influence your mindset, motivation, goals, and opportunities that life brings.
I will share my story: how joining the right community changed my mindset and empowered me to reach the next professional level, from being a good software developer to becoming a frequent speaker at tech conferences, mentor, and role model for a younger generation of women in tech. I will talk about the power of communities, and how joining them can influence your career, and what other benefits it may bring. I will also provide useful links to female communities worth checking out.

Join us for an impactful panel discussion as we bring together a diverse group of male and female leaders in the tech industry to share their insights and experiences on the topic of diversity and inclusion. With a focus on promoting equal opportunities for all, the panel will discuss the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and offer solutions for creating a more inclusive tech workplace.