Youth Program Recap

Planet Earth is facing a shortage of people who make things. People like scientists, software developers, architects, and engineers. People who use their brains and hands to make greatness happen.

To increase the world’s supply of problem solvers, the organizers of WindyCityRails partnered with a group of energetic college students, the founders of Monkey Bars. The result: Together, we launched the first WindyCityRails Youth Program featuring the Arduino microcontroller.

You Can Build Things

From a video interview with Steve Jobs:

When you grow up you tend to get told that the world is the way it is, and your life is just to live your life inside the world. Try not to bash into the walls too much. Try to have a nice family life. Have fun. Save a little money.

That’s a very limited life. Life can be much broader once you discover one simple fact.

Madison Ruby 2013

Madison Ruby 2013 was held this weekend. The conference attracts smart, intellectually curious people who are thirsty to learn more.

By the way, Madison Ruby was a lot of fun, too!

Speakers: Impressive and Accessible

First, lets cover the obvious high points so we can focus on those things that make Madison Ruby unique. Organizers Jim & Jen Remsik have solidified their reputation for choosing engaging, well-prepared speakers. The Remsik network of speakers includes accomplished developers from around the world. Many are published authors. Some, like Danielle Lee and Martin Atkins, excel in fields outside of software development.

Age vs. Ability

Age has little to do with ability. Every profession has examples of people who achieve goals even though others consider them too young or too old. People who excel in the face of stereotypes are exciting to watch.

The Wall Street Journal listed some examples in a 1980s-era ad for United Technologies Corporation.

Why We Need STEM

Ignite Chicago is an evening of 5-minute talks presented by speakers who want to inspire others. Each speaker is allowed twenty slides, and the slides advance automatically every fifteen seconds. The Ignite organizers asked me to present Why We Need STEM at 1871. I’ll post the video when it becomes available. For now, check out the slides…

Thank you Ignite Chicago organizers (Pete Aiello and Claire Lew) for the invitation and for hosting a great event.