Details

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/300591167/

Join us as we continue our second in-person "Guppy Talks" event! Hosted in the heart of Toronto at the beautiful Roof Garden event space, we look forward to an evening filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and celebrations of pioneering achievements in the health tech industry.

This event will be in-person on Thursday, May 16th (doors open @6pm) and hosted at the Roof Garden building (1 Roof Garden Lane, Toronto, ON M6H 1R2), thanks to our sponsors, 7Shifts 🙏 We'll have drinks, food, and great conversation to boot.

Topic: Engineering Wellness: Innovations and Challenges in Health Tech

Panelists:

• Marta Kule (she/her) - Senior Software Engineer, League

• Niya Panamdanam (she/her) - Senior Software Engineer, Healthie

Moderator: Riaz Virani (he/him), Community Organizer @ TechTank

Schedule:

6:00pm - 6:45pm - Get to the venue, eat, socialize!

6:45pm - 7:45pm - Announcements / panel discussion

7:45pm - 8:30pm - Hang out some more, ask questions

Anyone who wants to keep chatting afterwards is welcome to head to a bar nearby as a group.

Sponsor:

7Shifts is a leading technology company founded in 2014 that provides a comprehensive team management platform tailored specifically for the restaurant industry. The company's software solutions help restaurant managers optimize scheduling, streamline team communication, and ensure labor compliance efficiently. With a focus on improving team management and performance for restaurants, 7shifts aids in various operational aspects from hiring and training to payroll and engagement, offering a suite of tools designed to enhance productivity and reduce overhead costs. The platform is trusted by over 40,000 restaurants worldwide, helping them save time and resources in their daily operations.

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/300782288

StudyTank

A virtual initiative where we get together to discuss concepts around web technologies. This includes, but is not limited to data structure & algorithm problems, web fundamentals and any web-related topics. Part of this initiative is the community educators program which is a platform that invites members from the community to teach a topic that they are passionate about.

Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's also about effectively communicating what we've learned. By teaching others, we solidify our own understanding of the subject matter. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a culture of sharing, learning, and mutual growth within Study Tank.

Today's session

AI prompting has gained a lot of popularity within the last year as more and more AI systems become integrated into our everyday practices. Prompting is reshaping the way we interact with these AI systems as it offers a structured approach for crafting inputs that elicit desired behaviours and outputs from these AI models. So the question remains, how do we craft well-written prompts?

We’re thrilled that this session features Nhi Nguyen who will speak to us all about AI Prompting. She will give us practical tips on how we can write well-crafted prompts so that we can elicit the desired behaviours out of these AI systems.

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/299326496/

Join us on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 6-8pm EST, as we celebrate Women's History Month for our inaugural in-person edition of our beloved "Guppy Talks" series! Hosted in the heart of Toronto at Cohere's vibrant office space, this will be an evening full of insightful discussions, networking, and celebrating the remarkable contributions of diverse talents of women in the technology sector.

Your brilliant panelists for the evening:

• Abigail Mackenzie Armes (she/her) - Software Engineer

• Nicole Chung (she/her) - Engineer III, Design Systems

• Aninda Poddar (she/her) - Security Engineer

• Yash Masson (she/her) - Machine Learning Engineer

• Rajavi Shah (she/her) - Tech Lead

Event Details:

• 📅 Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2024

• 🕗 Time: 6pm EST

• 🌐 Location: 171 John St 2nd Floor · Toronto, ON

🚨🚨 Please RSVP through MICROSOFT REACTOR [LINK HERE] to receive your registration QR code. Because of capacity and security reasons, unfortunately those who just come without the QR code will not be allowed in!🚨🚨

This month we'll be featuring a talk by a member of our community on Large Language AI models.

The event will be in-person on Thursday, Feb 22nd (doors open @6pm) and hosted at the Microsoft office (located in CIBC Square: 81 Bay St, Toronto ON M5J 0E7). We'll have drinks, food, and great conversation to boot.

Topic: Generative AI for Developers

Description: Over the last year or so, the tech scene has exploded with the rise of large language models (LLMs) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). How can developers get started with these amazing new tools and build software using the latest cutting-edge models, without needing to become a data scientist themselves? This talk will cover just that and more, with a gentle introduction to the field of generative artificial intelligence, common use cases for its application in product, and highlighting emerging frameworks and resources for building GenAI-based tools or integrating them into existing applications.

Speaker: Myles Harrison

Myles is a data scientist, trainer, and the founder of NLP from scratch, an independent provider of accelerated training in natural language processing, large language models, and generative AI. Prior to this, he was a lead instructor and team lead at a data science bootcamp and delivered over two thousand hour of in-person and online training in data science, machine learning, and Big Data for students from diverse backgrounds looking to transform their careers and break into data science professionally.

Schedule:

6:00pm - 6:45pm - Get to the venue, eat, socialize!

6:45pm - 7:30pm - Announcements / presentations

7:30pm - 8:00pm - Hang out some more, ask questions

Anyone who wants to keep chatting afterwards is welcome to head to a bar nearby as a group.

Sponsor:

Microsoft Reactor - Reactors are community spaces where startups and developers meet, learn, and connect with experts industry-leading ideas, and AI technology from Microsoft, partners, and the open-source community. With a diverse mix of hands-on workshops, training, and live events, there's something for everyone- whether you're just getting started or working on complex projects. Reactor programming is always free and covers a broad set of AI products, tools, and technologies.

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/299017176/

Join us for our next VIRTUAL panel discussion on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 at 8-9pm EST, as we explore the unique and inspiring ways in which hobbies and diverse pre-tech backgrounds can influence and enhance a career in software development, a panel we're calling: "Coding with Character: The Impact of Personal Passions and Unconventional Backgrounds on shaping Software Careers".

Your brilliant panelists for the evening:

• Neha Bhole - SWE @Healthie

• Ekaterina (Kate) Svetlakova - SWE @Cohere

• Claudia Ahn - Frontend Developer @Top Hat

Event Details:

• 📅 Date: Wednesday, February 21st, 2024

• 🕗 Time: 8pm EST

• 🌐 Location: Online via ZOOM

By showcasing real-life stories and insights from developers who have merged their distinct interests and past careers with software development, this event aims to inspire and empower new developers to leverage their own unique journeys for success and innovation in the tech world.

Don't let the rigorous demands of the tech industry dim your ✨creative spark✨! This panel discussion is a must-attend for anyone looking to infuse their tech career with the vibrancy of their personal interests and non-traditional backgrounds. REGISTER TODAY and join us in a conversation that promises not only to enlighten but also to rekindle your enthusiasm for technology with fresh perspectives and energizing stories. Let's embrace our diverse journeys together and transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation in the tech landscape 💪

RSVP by joining the Code Diversity channel in our slack: #code-diversity

Celebrating Women & Non Binary Folk in the tech space to promote Inclusivity and Diversity

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/298854685/

StudyTank
A virtual initiative where we get together to discuss concepts around web technologies. This includes, but is not limited to data structure & algorithm problems, web fundamentals and any web-related topics. Part of this initiative is the community educators program which is a platform that invites members from the community to teach a topic that they are passionate about.

Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's also about effectively communicating what we've learned. By teaching others, we solidify our own understanding of the subject matter. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a culture of sharing, learning, and mutual growth within Study Tank.

Today's session
Containerization has revolutionized the way software is developed, deployed, and managed. A common platform used is Docker — a powerful tool that enables software engineers to create, package, and distribute applications seamlessly across different environments.

We’re thrilled that this session features Neal Panamdanam who will talk to us all about Containerization! Here, we'll chat about how containerization makes your development and deployment life way easier. From the basics of Docker to other cool containerization tech, this session is your ticket to smoothing out your workflows and getting cozy with the future of software delivery.

RSVP Here: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/298329281/

This month we'll be featuring a talk by a member of our community on navigating through the latest CSS features!

The event will be in-person on Thursday, Feb 1st (doors open @6pm) and hosted at the Intuit office (located in The Well - 8 Spadina Ave. Suite 1900, Toronto, ON M5V 0S8). We'll have drinks, food, and great conversation to boot.

Topic: CSS Chronicles: Navigating the Newest CSS Features

Description: The web platform is constantly evolving, and as web designers and developers, it's in our best interest that we stay ahead of the curve. In this session, we'll delve into the latest innovations and techniques that are shaping the modern web, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to stay at the forefront of the industry.

From the groundbreaking introduction of container queries, which redefine how we approach responsive design, to the innovative use of layers and nestings for more intuitive project structuring, to the exciting world of custom properties, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how to create web experiences that stand out. Join us as we discover how to stay at the forefront of web development by embracing these innovative tools and strategies.

Speaker: Nonso Otoh

Nonso is a developer, writer, and tinkerer who enjoys pushing the boundaries of web development. He has a passion for creating software that empowers others to bring their ideas to life. Nonso is particularly interested in the field of education and strives to develop engaging online learning platforms that enhance an individual's ability to learn more effectively.

Currently, he is an educator at BrainStation where he actively teaches software development to budding engineers. When he's not at his desk developing, you can find him rocking climbing, jumping out of airplanes, and seeing what new photography gear he can get his hands on!

Schedule:

6:00pm - 6:45pm - Get to the venue, eat, socialize!

6:45pm - 7:30pm - Announcements / presentations

7:30pm - 8:00pm - Hang out some more, ask questions

Anyone who wants to keep chatting afterwards is welcome to head to a bar nearby as a group.

Even though we'd love to see all of you, please be considerate to your fellow Meetup members and stay home if you feel sick. We'll catch you next time!

Sponsor:

Intuit is a global technology platform that helps their customers and communities overcome their most important financial challenges. Serving millions of customers worldwide with TurboTax, QuickBooks, Credit Karma and Mailchimp, Intuit believes that everyone should have the opportunity to prosper and they work tirelessly to find new, innovative ways to deliver on this belief.

Meetup/RSVP Link: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/297145894/

This month we'll be featuring a talk by a member of our community on everything related to app telemetry.

The event will be in-person and hosted at the Rakuten Kobo office (150 John St, Toronto, ON M5V 3E3). We'll have drinks, food, and great conversation to boot.

(*Please note you must be on the confirmed RSVP list in order to attend due to security reasons at the venue. RSVPs will close one week prior on Thurs, November 23rd at 12am).

Topic: You've deployed... But how is your app performing?

Description: The speaker will guide you through adding essential telemetry and system monitoring to improve your product. We'll explore various metrics, logs, and traces - and dive into the relevant tools.

Speaker: Erik Langille

Erik is a full-stack software engineer at Genesys, where he frequently uses telemetry to guide software design decisions. Outside of work, he writes more code with occasional breaks to visit a coffee shop or go bouldering.

Schedule:

6:00pm - 6:45pm - Get to the venue, eat, socialize!

6:45pm - 7:30pm - Announcements / presentations

7:30pm - 8:00pm - Hang out some more, ask questions

Anyone who wants to keep chatting afterwards is welcome to head to a bar nearby as a group.

Sponsor:

Rakuten Kobo

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world’s only dedicated digital bookseller. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten and headquartered in Toronto, Kobo enables more than 30 million readers worldwide to read anytime, anywhere and on any device. With our award-winning eReaders and the free Kobo App for smartphones and tablets, Kobo is your portable reading world.

Meetup/Zoom Link: https://www.meetup.com/techtank-to/events/297176805/

For this month's VIRTUAL panel discussion, we're plunging into the dynamic world of tech development, an event we're calling: "Transitioning to Full Stack and Beyond: Broadening Your Tech Horizons". If you’re keen on navigating both front-end and back-end landscapes, this is the session where you'll gather priceless insights💪!

Here are your fabulous panelists of the month:

• Davidson Lee

• Chelsea Roman

• Chitra Shah

Details:
📌 Date? Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023
🕗 Time? 8pm EST
📍Where? VIRTUAL on Zoom

Are you ready to ramp up your tech game? Join us as we navigate the roadmap to full-stack expertise. Secure your spot now and let's unlock the full potential of your tech skills!✨🥳

Web accessibility is about making the internet an inclusive space for everyone, regardless of their abilities, disabilities, or the devices they use to access information. It is the practice of designing and developing websites and web applications in a way that ensures all users can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with digital content effectively.

So we're thrilled that this session features Hojung An who is going to be talking to us about Web accessibility!

This session will cover what web accessibility is about, why it's important and what guidelines and laws exist. If you’re new to new to web accessibility or familiar with it and still have a hard time understanding some of the concepts, then this session will answer some of your questions!

Here's a walkthrough of what we're going to cover:

1. What is web accessibility?

2. Types of disabilities

3. Assistive Technology

4. Guidelines and Laws

5. Semantic HTML - Intro

6. Accessible CSS

7. Testing - Intro

8. Demo

​Turn your fears and nightmares of job hunting, imposter syndrome and bugs in your code into gruesome halloween ENERGY muhahaha 💀😈, and come dressed in your BEST costume as we embark on a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable memories!

​Here’s the info:

• ​Location📍: Toronto - exact location will be shared when you register!

• ​Fee💰: $20 per person* (covers food, rental space, and decorations)

• ​BYOB 🍻 (we will have a limited supply of alcohol, but please bring your own if you can!)

• ​Please make sure to e-transfer your admission fee ($20) to Riaz at riaz.n.virani@gmail.com within 1 week of registering for the event! Approval to the event will be allowed once payment is made

​*(NB: If you’re currently not in a place to pay the admission fee, please contact someone from the admin team and we can find an arrangement for you!)

​Can’t wait to get spooky with y’all 👻 👻 !!

Details

This month we'll be featuring a talk by Luis Serrano, an expert on machine learning from Cohere, who is also our sponsor for this month.

The event will be in-person and hosted at the Cohere office. We'll have drinks, food, and great conversation to boot.

Speaker: Luis Serrano

I have a belief: math, science, machine learning, etc., are all easy to understand!

Why do they look so hard, then? Because very often, beautiful concepts are hidden behind layers upon layers of abstraction, making them unnecessarily complex.

My goal is to pull the curtain and demystify these topics by explaining them with real-life concrete examples, and showing that most complex algorithms and formulas reduce to common sense when viewed from the right angle.

Ways to follow me:
- YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/c/LuisSerrano
- Homepage: http://serrano.academy
- Book - Grokking Machine Learning

Schedule:

6:00pm - 6:45pm - Get to the venue, eat, socialize!

6:45pm - 7:30pm - Announcements / presentations

7:30pm - 8:00pm - Hang out some more, ask questions

Anyone who wants to keep chatting afterwards is welcome to head to a bar nearby as a group.

Sponsor:

Cohere

Cohere is the leading AI platform for enterprise. Our world-class AI is uniquely suited to the needs of business, unlocking unprecedented ease-of-use, accessibility, and data privacy. Cohere’s platform is cloud-agnostic, accessible through API as a managed service, and can be deployed on virtual private cloud (VPC) or even on-site to meet companies where their data is, offering the highest levels of flexibility and control.

Founded by Google Brain alumni and a co-author of the seminal Transformer research paper, Cohere is on a mission to transform enterprises and their products with AI that unlocks a more intuitive way to generate, search, and summarize information than ever before. We are backed by group of global institutional and strategic investors including Index Ventures, Oracle, NVIDIA, Salesforce Ventures, Inovia Capital, DTCP, Mirae Asset, Radical Ventures, Section 32, and Tiger Global, as well as several AI luminaries, including Geoffrey Hinton, Jeff Dean, Fei-Fei Li, Pieter Abbeel, and Raquel Urtasun.

Hiking trip to Niagra on the Glen

Overall info about the trails:

• Both trails are around moderate difficulty. The main difficulty comes from the big elevation change. You start at the top and hike down to the water and back up.

• Both trails are mainly under trees but still starting the hike earlier will be better for the humidity and temperature.

• Trail #1 (Left One): The one on the left is around 45-1 hour if you go slow and take your time. There are so many scenic areas around that you would wanna take your time and enjoy the view for sure

• Trail #2 (Right One): This one is definitely a longer and a tiny bit more moderate, easy difficult hike trail compared to the left one. There are many more scenic areas, and rocks by the water that you can sit down, enjoy the view, and take a break along the way. With breaks, this can take around 1-2 hours easily (definitely depends on how many breaks you take)

• We can do both hikes, one of them or divide into groups and some can continue the hike, and some can start the picnic. It is a very accommodating area.

• The beginning of the trails is a big picnic area from the view at the top of the trails. Amazing place to have a picnic, play volleyball or games, and hang out.

• For shoes, anything that has a stronger sole will be better as the hike is more walking on the rocks so it will be easier on your feet but any thick workout shoe will also work great!

• There are many areas boulderers use to boulder so if anyone is interested, I see people there all the time but not sure what they prepare for bouldering over there.

For this month's VIRTUAL panel discussion, we're delving deep into the expectations, challenges, and strategies for mid-level developers. We're calling this one: "From Junior to Mid-Level & Beyond: Strategies for Career Advancement" ✨. If you're on the verge of transitioning from a junior to a mid-level role, looking to take your career to new heights, or you're just hoping to get there one day, join us to gain some valuable insights!

Introducing our incredible panelists:

• Jules Gmz

• Randall Thomas

• Danny Kim

Get ready for an enriching session! We'll discuss, debate, and discover the path to mid-level mastery and beyond. Let's navigate the tech landscape together and, as always, have a blast doing it!✨🥳