Our space is ready for you!

Imagine stepping into a bright, welcoming space — a place where ideas are built, connections are made, and growth comes naturally. That’s exactly what you’ll find at this year’s Professional Development area. Our Community Team will be there, ready to greet you, share tools and tips, and help you shape your own path forward. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick chat or diving in for deeper learning, this is your space to explore and grow.

So, what’s waiting for you in the Professional Development area? Let’s take a little tour.

First, picture yourself wandering over to a group of friendly faces that’s our Community Team. Maybe you’re brand new, curious about what the community is all about. Or maybe you’ve been around for a while but want to dig deeper. Either way, we’ll be right there to answer your questions, help you navigate, and even get you signed up if you’re ready to join in.

On Monday evening, the Professional Development area turns into something special: a chance to meet the brilliant minds of Carlo Appugliese and Ayal Steinberg, the co-authors of Generative AI for Business. Bring your copy or pick one up and head to the book signing at 7:45pm, it’s your chance to connect directly with the experts and walk away with a signed keepsake.

But the Professional Development area isn’t just about work and learning . It’s about community stories, too. That’s where our Book Swap & Club Stories corner comes alive. Bring a book you’ve loved, leave with a new one, and swap tales about the reads that have shaped your thinking. You never know what story or new connection you’ll carry home.

And if you’re more of a visual storyteller, we’ve got you covered with our Engagement Wall. Imagine a living canvas filled with inspiration, ideas, and reflections from people across the conference. Add your own spark and see what themes begin to emerge as the wall grows with each new voice.

Speaking of growth, don’t miss our Seeds of Growth Tree. Each leaf, each branch, each note represents a milestone, a shared expertise, or a personal story from our community. Add yours and become part of the bigger picture a tree that celebrates the many ways we learn and flourish together.

And because every great story deserves a strong first impression, step into our Professional Photo Booth. Walk away with a polished headshot you can use proudly for your profile, portfolio, or next big opportunity.

And before you go, don’t forget to grab your community swag… shhh...it’s a surprise! 

Don’t miss out! There’s still time to register and join us for all this excitement. 

Sarah-Jane Cogley 
Program Director, IBM Community platform.