Waihōpai, Invercargill will become a hub of coding conversation later in the year as the Kiwi PyCon, the national conference dedicated to the Python programming language takes place.
The New Zealand Python User Group (NZPUG), which is organising Kiwi Pycon, says the conference will bring together developers, engineers, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, and Python enthusiasts from across the country to explore the latest trends and innovations in the field.
There’s also a strong diversity focus to the conference, says Carlos Cordero, Kiwi PyCon Director.
“Diversity makes us stronger and it is an essential part of creating a vibrant and innovative tech industry in New Zealand. By bringing together people from different backgrounds and perspectives, we can learn from each other and build a better future for everyone.”
Python is one of the world’s top general-purpose programming languages, vying with Java and JavaScript for the top honour on international lists. The PYPL PopularitY of Programming Language Index, which is based on Google searches related to programming languages, ranks Python number 1, with a 28% share of searches.
Source: PYPL PopularitY of Programming Language Index
Python developers are in hot demand, according to Talent’s recent 2023 salary guide.
Leading international companies like IBM, NASA, Pixar and Netflix have widely deployed Python, as have local tech companies Seequent, Rocket Lab, Weta Digital and Xero.
“Python is easy to learn and versatile, making it a popular choice for data science, web development, and start-ups,” Kiwi Pycon’s organisers note.
“Python is poised to become the de facto standard programming language for many domains.”
Python is widely deployed for web development, data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence and is popular because it is relatively easy to learn, has readable syntax and is adaptable to a wide range of situations. It also has a highly active developer community. Kiwi Pycon will look to tap into that community’s experience as a lingering tech skills shortage hits the industry
“Aotearoa New Zealand is an exciting place to be right now if you’re interested in a career in tech,” says Cordero.
“There are plenty of opportunities for people with skills in Python and other programming languages, and our community is committed to supporting and mentoring newcomers to the field.”
Keynote speakers at Kiwi Pycon include Robin McNeill, Chief Executive Officer of Space Operations New Zealand, and Loren Crary, Director of Resource Development of the Python Software Foundation. In addition, attendees will be able to attend 18 full talks, 12 lightning talks, and browse up to 19 exhibits.
For more information about Kiwi PyCon 2023, including registration and conference details, calls for proposals and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://kiwipycon.nz.Early Bird Tickets for Kiwi PyCon 2023 are on sale now until the 14th of April.