Rhein-Neckar AI & Data Hub Meetup

### Join us for the #second Rhein-Neckar AI & Data Hub Meetup!

Edition #2: Spotlight on Data Engineering

We’re back – and ready for round two!

Join us on May 8, 2025, as we dive deep into the world of Data Engineering – the essential backbone of any AI, analytics, or data-driven initiative. Expect real-world insights, practical experiences, and honest conversations – no fluff, no empty buzzwords.

### Our Speaker

👉Dr. Daniar Achakeev, Senior Software Engineer, HMS
"Extend Your Data Engineering Toolbox with Single Node Processing Engines"

In this discussion, I will explore the rise of single node processing and its impact on the data engineering landscape. I will briefly introduce DuckDB and Arrow, and touch on the topic of relational data processing and the importance of SQL, whether for single node or distributed processing.

Should you really replace Apache Spark, or are we comparing apples and oranges? How could DuckDB complement the Lakehouse architecture? Are these tools ready for production use? These are some of the questions I plan to discuss with you.

👉Robert Pack , Staff Developer Advocate, Databricks
"Native interoperability between table formats and query engines"

Join us as we explore interoperability between table formats and query engines in the RUst ecosystem. Diving deeper into delta-kernel-rs, a new Rust implementation of the Delta Lake protocol designed for unparalleled interoperability. We will explore how maintaining a native implementation of the Delta specification (with native C and C++ FFI support) can deliver consistent benefits across diverse data processing systems, eliminating the need for repetitive, engine-specific reimplementations. Let’s discuss how these emerging design patterns may impact the broader Open Lakehouse ecosystem.

### Agenda

• 18:00 – Welcome & Networking (snacks and drinks provided)
• 18:30 – Talks begin
• 20:00 – Get together

📅 Date & Time: Thursday, May 8, 2025 | 18:00 - 21:00
📍 Location: HMS Analytical Software GmbH, Grüne Meile 29, 69115 Heidelberg

### Important Notes

✔ Maximum capacity: 30 attendees – please RSVP only if you can attend.
✔ No-show policy: If you can’t make it, kindly update your RSVP so someone else can take your spot.
✔ Participation is free!

🔗 Register now & secure your spot: Rhein-Neckar AI & Data Hub