Project Loom, or virtual threads, promised fast, lightweight user-space threads that are very cheap to block. While this is true, everything in life comes at a price. Virtual threads allow users to not care about it. It is the job of the underlying libraries that all our applications use. Issues that can still occur with virtual threads, such as pinning, monopolization, or large thread-local objects, still present real-world problems many libraries still need to account for. Especially in enterprises, these issues might only be noticed once the system reaches the peak loads, which is usually too late. In this session, we explain the virtual thread model execution and compare it to the event loop/reactive model utilized in Quarkus. We will also dive into individual problems that virtual threads might encounter and demonstrate how you can verify that your code doesn’t run into them. By the end of the talk, you’ll understand these (from the user point of view invisible) potential issues with Project Loom.

In the dynamic landscape of software engineering, navigating one’s career path can be akin to traversing a minefield, fraught with potential pitfalls and challenges. However, by adopting a well-grounded approach, software engineers can steer clear of common traps and setbacks, ultimately achieving success and fulfillment in their profession.

This talk aims to highlight the essential strategies and principles that empower software engineers to build resilient and rewarding careers. Through practical advice and industry insights, attendees will gain valuable perspectives on how to:

• Cultivate a strong engineering foundation
• Set achievable goals to mark progress
• Embracing communication and soft skills
• Recognizing and mitigating burnout or overwork
• Seeking mentorship for continued growth

By proactively addressing these key areas, software engineers can fortify themselves against common career pitfalls, ensuring fulfillment and resilience in an ever-evolving industry. Join us as we delve into the strategies and insights that pave the way for a well-grounded and flourishing career in software engineering.