Q&A with Steve Bodnar of the Mid-Atlantic Developer Expo
5 Jul
Last week, Aaron and I attended the MADExpo in Hampton, Virginia and took some time to speak with the President of the non-profit organization, Mid Atlantic Developer Expo, Steve Bodnar. Here is what he had to say about the second annual MADExpo that had a turnout of over 250 people.
Q: For those not familiar, what is the MADExpo?
A: The MADExpo has evolved into an event to specialize in hardware, electronics, and programming languages. It is a developer conference with a broad appeal hosting speakers with a variety of specialties in different languages and environments.
Q: How did the MADExpo get started?
A: At a .NET community summit in 2010, the attendees decided they wanted to organize a larger conference and be able to reach out to a larger, diverse technical population. They contacted Steve Bodnar, owner of Geeks and Gurus who provided conference services, and the idea was born.
Q: What additions have you made to the conference this year?
A: After feedback from last year, we offered every session twice this year. This ensured that all participants were able to make the sessions that interested them without any scheduling conflicts.
Q: What changes do you plan to make to the conference next year?
A: Next year, we plan to expand the kids’ program. We currently offer 4 sessions for kids both in programming and electronics. Next year, we will be offering six sessions and organizing a field trip option to take them to local museums.
Q: What would be your suggestion to people just starting to get into programming?
A: Join your local user group and attend the meetings. The best thing to do is network with people who have a similar interest.
Q: If someone was interested in speaking at or sponsoring the event next year, who would they need to contact?
A: Email info@madexpo.us. We also encourage first time speakers to submit.
Q: Where can people go to learn more about MADExpo?
A: Online at madexpo.us. On Twitter at @MADExpo, and we are also on Facebook.
We thank Steve for taking the time to speak with us, and all of the other volunteers that made this event so successful this year! Dates are still being determined for next year, and all questions can be emailed to info@madexpo.us.
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