Bringing the developing and technical community together

Saturday’s conference at the Digital Greenhouse was the final event of their National Coding week series.

‘We’ve had 12 events across the week, it’s been fantastic, well over 350 people have come through the door for events this week,’ said head of digital at Digital Greenhouse Lucy Kirby.

‘It’s the first Future Rewired conference that has been run by the Digital Greenhouse and it’s sponsored by Prosperity 24/7.

‘We originally allocated about 45 tickets but it’s gone up to 60.’

‘The purpose is about bringing the developing and technical community together and allowing it to grow.

‘It’s particularly aimed at our junior developers just starting out in the field, they might have just got into the role or changed career path.’

The conference had three different streams of talk: Deep Dive/ Technical Talk looking at technical areas and specific languages and techniques, Product Showcase looking at more innovative products and processes behind them, and Project Delivery/Management given by local developers on tools and tips to simplify and deliver client needs.

Ms Kirby said the idea had actually come from Matt Champion who, although at the conference independently, is a consultant at C5 Alliance.

‘Last year I went to a Microsoft conference in the UK, which I enjoyed. There were so many specialists and I learnt a lot.’

However, Mr Champion said it was difficult and expensive to attend.

There was nothing like it available in Guernsey and he wanted to see that change.

‘It was an idea from quite a while ago but I didn’t know if could do it on my own.

‘Digital Greenhouse have been instrumental.’

He said as well as the interesting talks on offer the main thing for him was the opportunities the conference would give for attendants to meet others in the industry.

‘There are interesting topics from speakers but a huge part at the lunch and after party is to introduce people to each other.

‘Despite Guernsey being a small place, it can be hard to meet others in the industry.

‘I’ve seen a few people I recognise but I hope I will meet more of them as well.’

Among those seated and looking forward to the event was Chris Hudson.

‘My dad was an engineer and he was on early computers.

‘We had one of the first home computers.

‘When I was 16 I went to people’s houses and taught, sold games that I’d written.

‘I’ve got a CompTIA A+ [the preferred qualifying credential for technical support and IT operational roles].’

Mr Hudson works for UK gambling company Stanleybet but said technology was his hobby.

‘I build computers. I started mid 2000s, I’ve been busy recently, with moving house. I’m here to reconnect with one of my hobbies.’

Jamie Mills works in IT and also attended the conference.

‘I’m looking forward to the talks. It should be interesting.’