2025-03-02 –, Main Hall (LH 111)
Open-source software has long been a cornerstone of the tech ecosystem, nurturing innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. However, its potential as a training ground for the next generation of developers remains underexplored. This talk examines how open-source projects can be transformed into structured environments that not only help students and early-career professionals build skills but also benefit maintainers and the broader Python community.
We will analyze the dual benefits of this approach, focusing on how open-source contributions can bridge the gap between theoretical education and real-world experience. Key topics include the role of open-source in equipping contributors with technical, collaborative, and problem-solving skills highly sought after in industry settings. The discussion will also highlight how maintainers can leverage student contributions to improve project documentation, streamline workflows, and diversify their teams.
The talk will draw from the CodeDay Labs model, a structured initiative that mentors students through open-source contributions, showcasing its success in creating impactful projects while fostering early-career talent. Practical insights will be provided on how to make projects accessible for new contributors, from optimizing contribution pathways to building inclusive and supportive project cultures.
This exploration underscores the mutual benefits of integrating students into open-source communities, arguing that such collaborations are not only feasible but also vital for sustaining the future of open-source software development. By the end, attendees will understand how to develop a win-win collaborations that drive innovation, enrich projects, and equip the next generation of Pythonistas.
Intermediate
Category:Community
Ramiz Rahman is the Director of CodeDay Labs, CodeDay Labs is a program that helps students and early-career developers gain real-world experience by contributing to open-source projects under the guidance of industry mentors. Prior to joining CodeDay Labs, Ramiz served as the Head of Product at the ed-tech company Edudigm, where he played a pivotal role in launching their new startup, STEMPowered. STEMPowered focuses on bringing hands-on learning in Robotics and AI to high school and college students.
In his free time, Ramiz enjoys reading about philosophy and geopolitics, tinkering with electronics, taking photographs, playing ukulele.