Biography

Jessica is on a mission to blur the lines between object-oriented and functional programming. Her current job as a Scala developer makes this particularly fun. Before that, she wrote Java for ten years, learned to love vodka and dark beer, studied Physics, and had some kids. She speaks at user groups and conferences because programmers are fascinating people to meet.

Lectures

Object-Oriented Design In the Wild

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You're a great Java developer. Can you use this skill to conquer JavaScript or Haskell or Ruby? There are truths about Java that don't export, but other principles are universal. This session explores both: what are the limitations of object-oriented design, and what is our potential? See examples of design principles applied for good and for evil. If Java is your strongest weapon but not the only sword you wield, this session will sharpen your strategy. The makings of a great polyglot developer are within you: come find them.

Discussion panel: "Freaks of the Freaks: Talking About Minorities in IT"

The session will start with short talks by two motivated women: Jessika Kerr and Kamila Sidor; but this year we will not limit ourselves solely to the issue of female empowerment. The invited panelists, together with the audience, will have a chance to discuss the gender/racial/cultural(im)balance of the IT community. Is the current sex ratio natural? Are opportunities equal? Why are those few people making so much fuss? Should diversity be fostered? Is there a gain somewhere? Or should we all just grow white beards? We hope to make the panel both inspiring and concrete. Come to listen, learn, and share your ideas.