New year, new you? If your resolutions include getting out there to network for a new job, new skills or new friends, January's tech scene in Chicago has plenty to offer. The first month of the year has events on the networking front (see Tech in Motion), the learning front (see ChicagoRuby) and maybe even the friends front (DrinkUp!). If you need help setting goals, learn new principles in a hands-on workshop with WE Design Think. If it’s inspiration you’re after, check out the screening of Code: Debugging the Gender Gap. The year 2016 is nearly here—are you ready?
ChicagoRuby: Fast Iteration on Machine Learning Development: For more advanced developers, this ChicagoRuby meetup will focus on machine learning and data science. Presenter Robert Krzyzanowski will lead the talk and drinks will follow at Elephant & Castle. (ThoughtWorks, 200 E Randolph St, January 5, 6pm. Free)
Software DrinkUp: Organized by DevMynd, this casual meetup is a place to hang out, talk shop or mingle with other developers. January's meetup will be held at Monk’s Pub, so you'll be able to chat about software over a sizable beer list. (Normally held at Monk's Pub, 205 W Lake St, but subject to change, January 7, 6:30pm. Free)
Design Your Year! Set 2016 Goals Using Design Thinking: Kick off 2016 with a hands-on workshop led by WE Design Think, hosted by Dev Bootcamp. Use the methods of Design Thinking (which will be explained on-site) to brainstorm and explore your goals for 2016. (Dev Bootcamp, 351 W Hubbard St, January 14, 5:30pm. $16–$22)
Coding Solo? Hack with Others! Whether you’re working on tutorials through Codecademy or Team Treehouse, building your own WordPress site or reading Learn Ruby the Hard Way, come work on your self-study materials in the company of others doing the same. There will be TAs and snacks available. (Dev Bootcamp, 351 W Hubbard St, January 25, 5:30pm. Free)
January Winter Mixer: Tech in Motion: Head to Municipal in River North for drinks (free to the first to arrive) and heavy-duty tech networking with networking juggernaut Tech in Motion. Grab a nametag and a drink and get out there. (Municipal, 216 W Ohio St, January 27, 6pm. Free)
Screening of Code: Debugging the Gender Gap: Organized by PyLadies Chicago, this screening will feature the new documentary Code: Debugging the Gender Gap, and a post-screening panel discussion with women engineers. Register here to receive a free ticket. (Dev Bootcamp, 351 Hubbard St, January 28, 6pm. Free with RSVP)