User Groups and Technical Communities
User groups and technical communities were formed to support individuals in their careers by offering networking and educational opportunities for various types of technology. Apex is proud to have been able to sponsor speakers at some user group meetings across the country.
User Groups User Groups consist of members of like-minded technology professionals who come together, typically monthly, to discuss aspects related to a specific technology and best practices associated with use of that technology. They strive to provide "real life" opportunities for learning from the shared experience of the members. The mission of one of the user groups we’re involved with states they exist “to provide a forum for professional technologists focused on Microsoft .NET™ applications. The group provides members the ability to communicate, learn, share, inform and network.”
Resources to identify user groups:
Why should you join a user group?
To increase your technical knowledge through educational events To network with individuals in the same industry To learn about other technical groups, certification study groups, events, conferences, hackathons, etc… in the area It is an opportunity to connect with hiring managers and recruiters
Ways you can benefit user groups and yourself at the same time:
Promote the group to colleagues Speak at an event or share insight on technical trends or resources Join the planning committee for the group or a specific event Donate technical books to the group (and make more space on your bookshelf at the same time!)
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Code Camps Code Camps are planned days of learning about code and development. They are typically organized on by technical community leaders to help educate technologists, promote software development and best practices in the community, and create a forum for networking.
Code Camps are created for the community and therefore:
- Do not disclose attendee contact information to sponsors
- Are often described as “unconferences”
- Typically offer different tracks
- Focus on your local or regional development community
- Bring presenters who are typically members of the community
- Are NOT a venue for advertisement or marketing presentations; it’s about professional development for the technical community, not sales plug-ins
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