NYC provides opportunity like few other places in the world. While technology connects us more and more without requiring we link up in person, that technology exists here along side one of the largest metropolises on the planet.

As I began looking for IRL resources to continue development of my engineering skills, I quickly realized the intellectual and networking gold mine within the NYC tech events space. I've found many helpful resources navigating the opportunities, but you might imagine I gravitated to Meetup for help navigating all the opportunities in NYC.

When I began attending tech events in NYC I decided to cast a wide net before solidifying a selective strategy. I spent an hour every Monday morning looking at events in the city for the current and following weeks. I set a goal to attend an average of three events each week. I attended networking mixers, instructional classes, group projects, panel discussions, conferences, and a couple I can probably classify as miscellaneous.

After a couple months of attending a variety of events I had a better idea of where I found and provided value. I want to share my resources and favorites here but hope to only share why I like them. TBH I feel conflicted in encouraging anyone to attend because some are already quite packed and I like a good seat!

I'm currently thinking I'll refresh this single post often with my favorites, rather than turning it into a series. I would rather it evolve over time than expand.

Let's get started!

Meetup Group => Build with Code NYC => JavaScript the Hard Parts.

This revolving lecture series is 6:30pm most Thursdays at Codesmith in Tribeca. Codesmith hosts several other great event series and a learning platform called CSX. The JStHP series is generally led by the CEO or Senior Software Engineer and provided via webcast for anyone unable to attend in person. Like many other things in NYC, you know this is a good time from the size of the crowd that it can draw. I usually sign up the week before to avoid the waiting list. Each event starts out with an introduction around the room and a simple and relevant ice breaker. The instructors keep the room engaged by prompting participation from the room. As you answer questions in front of roughly 50-70 other attendees, the instructors coach you on your problem solving and technical communication. These events have really helped break down my discomfort talking about code under pressure, which as you can imagine is a great preparation for technical interviews. In addition to great subject matter, I have found great connections in attendance at JStHP. (as of Dec 2019)