If you work in IT, there’s no better place to be than London. A technological hub buzzing with networking opportunities, exciting new companies and experts in the field, it’s no wonder the UK capital is always thriving.
When you work in a fast-moving industry, it’s important to stay connected and continue to learn about your field. Whether you’re someone who works in IT support and you want a career move or you’re a coder looking to meet like-minded people, the following London meetups are worth taking advantage of. We’ve geared this list especially for those who work as an IT consultant or provide it support services to businesses in London. As a side note, Infinity Group’s site and the blog has plenty more of tips for you and new articles from the field of IT support.
Tech for Good
Tech for Good is a London meetup group which aims to use technology to change millions of lives for the better. It brings together hackers, coders, developers and designers who understand social problems and want to use their skills to make the world a better place. The group currently has around 9000 members.
What? Meetings cover a variety of different social topics including how to embed good legal structures, using AI responsibly and women in business. You will be able to discuss your opinions with those who have like-minded environmental, social and political views and consider how your skills could make a difference.
Where? Tech for Good are based in London and meet in various locations. Previous events have been held at Toybnee Hall, RSA House and Mozfest House.
When? A popular meet up with plenty of events to choose from, Tech for Good hosts meet ups approximately every month. More information here.
London Software Craftsmanship Community
The London Software Craftsmanship Community is a community for those who are proud of what they do. It’s for the developers, regardless of how experienced they are, who want to improve and master their craft. They are raising the bar of professional software development by practicing it and helping others learn the craft.
What? Meetings are interactive and often involve lightning talks, where members are encouraged to share demos or new technology with the group. It’s an open space where members can discuss any issues they might be having with software and help each other to develop their skills. So, whether you’re a coder, IT manager or software developer, you’ll have plenty to discuss.
Where? Meetings are often held at Aspect Capital in Marylebone.
When? The London Software Craftsmanship Community holds a monthly round table. All you need to do is RSVP to the event so they know how much food and drinks to provide. More information here.
London Futurists
This group is for people who are interested in the future and want to help shape it. Members of the group consider how changes in technology might change and develop the world, and the group aims to keep sight of humanity amongst the chaos.
What? Meetings are in-depth discussions about members’ views on the progression of technology and the good and bad repercussions. Expect discussions on topics like anti-aging, nanotech, genetics, computing, robotics, and geo-engineering, and be prepared for topical debates that could get heated. Anybody is welcome – you don’t need to be a tech geek to have an opinion. All the group asks is for mutual respect and an open-minded attitude.
Where? Events have been known to be held at Birckbeck College and Newspeak House in Shoreditch.
When? Meet ups are regular and depend on the discussion topic. It’s worth doing your research and attending one that explores an issue that you feel passionate about. More information here.
Codecademy London
Codecademy London encourages people to learn about coding, offering a variety of courses to develop new skills and understand how programming works. They also host a Coding Challenge Hackathon.
What? If you’re interested in learning more about coding, Codecademy London might be a great meet up for you. Meetups encourage people to learn more about courses and programming languages, make friends with fellow learners and help one another to develop new skills. From classes to support groups, there’s something for everyone, and it doesn’t matter whether you’re a more experienced coder or just learning the basics.
Where? Classes and courses are held in a variety of locations including the University of Law campus in Moorgate. More casual classes and support groups are known to be held at Hart Shoreditch Hotel.
When? Codecademy London hosts on campus classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hackathon challenges take place on Saturdays. More information here.
Scala Central
This is the Meetup for anyone in and around London who is interested in the power and possibilities of the Scala programming language. But what is Scala?
Scala is an object-oriented programming language, which is used for functional programming and strong static systems. Running on JVM, it has the capability to coordinate with existing Java code and libraries.
What? Scala Central is the leading meet up for those interested in gaining knowledge and experience in Scala programming. Members meet up to discuss challenges and best practices, frameworks like Play, Akka, Slick and Spray and exchange ideas. Meetings are normally in a presentation format with guest speakers, followed by drinks and pizza.
Where? Meetings take place in a variety of different locations in central London, including the Depop headquarters and Babylon Health in South Kensington. Keep an eye on the events pages to see where the next one will be held.
When? Scala Central holds meetings approximately every month at 6:30. More information here.
3 tips for a meet up
Sometimes, the idea of going to a meet up can feel daunting. It’s nerve wracking when you don’t know anyone, so here are three things to make the conversation flow smoothly:
- Ask questions. People love to talk about themselves, so if you’re worried about awkward conversations, ask them about their lives. What do they do? Where have they travelled from? What do they want to gain from the group?
- Circulate. When the conversation is getting stale, it’s fine to move away. Going to the bar or the bathroom can help if a conversation has run its course.
- Smile. Being friendly and approachable helps at a meet up. If you’re smiling, people will want to talk to you.
