VW

A decade. Hundreds of conversations, ideas, and inspirations. And we're celebrating with a meetup that truly delivers. Three exceptional speakers, topics that matter, and plenty of room for what has made this meetup special for 10 years: real people, real conversations, real networking. **The Evening at a Glance** 17:30 Doors open, first drinks, familiar faces and new ones 18:00 Welcome and a brief look back at 10 years of DevOps Meetup Zurich 18:15–18:45 **Claws in the Dark: Bringing DevSecOps to Legacy Hardware with Robotics and Playwright** by Alexander Friesen 18:45–19:15 **Beyond Agile: Structuring Organizations for Real Autonomy** by Lea Düker 19:15–19:25 Short break 19:25–19:55 **From Bottlenecks to Flow: OKRs, Value Stream Management, and Governance Done Right** by Vasileios Konofaos 19:55–20:15 Panel discussion with all three speakers 20:15 Networking, Open Space, snacks, drinks, and anniversary cake 🎂 **Claws in the Dark: Bringing DevSecOps to Legacy Hardware with Robotics and Playwright** What do you do when your software’s "deployment target" is a piece of security hardware embedded in a concrete wall for 20 years? In the world of access control, we don't have the luxury of "move fast and break things"—if the integration fails, the door stays locked. For decades, hardware development at Primion relied on manual bit-shifting, incomplete specifications, and the "read, write, and pray" method. When the pandemic decentralized our R&D department—scattering 60 developers across Europe—the traditional model of physical bench testing collapsed. We couldn't send a lab to everyone’s home, so we brought the developers to the lab through robotics. In this session, we deep-dive into how we bridged the physical-digital divide by building a fully automated hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing farm. We will explore: * The Architecture: How we orchestrate GitLab CI, Azure ephemeral environments, and Playwright to drive physical interactions. * The Hardware Hack: How a 200 CHF robotic claw replaced manual testing, allowing developers to "touch" hardware from anywhere in the world. * The Shift-Left Strategy: Moving from "praying for compatibility" to robust integration testing that catches bit-level errors before they ever hit the factory floor. * Scaling on a Budget: How a single working student scaled our setup to 20+ (and rising) automated test cells. Join us to see how "claws moving in the dark" turned hardware debugging from a nightmare into a breeze, and learn how to apply DevSecOps principles to the most stubborn, physical environments. **Alexander Friesen** Aexander is a **Lead IT Architect** with over a decade of experience in software architecture and technical leadership. He specializes in building and scaling modern ecosystems for major enterprises like **Swisscard** and **Siemens**. DevOps & Platform Engineering Highlights * **Platform Leadership:** Directed technical strategy for Siemens’ IoT flagship "BuildingX" and managed multi-million dollar budgets for large-scale SAFe trains. * **Automation & Compliance:** Expert in **DevSecOps**, achieving ISO27000 compliance through automated CI/CD pipelines and security scanning. * **Efficiency Gains:** Improved software team productivity by **30%** through the implementation of AI Ops and Internal Developer Platforms. * **Cloud Native Stack:** Certified **AWS Architect** with deep expertise in Kubernetes, Terraform, Serverless, and **Data Mesh** architectures. * **Global Teams:** Proven track record of leading cross-functional engineering teams across Switzerland, Germany, the USA, and India. **Beyond Agile: Structuring Organizations for Real Autonomy** Many organizations invest in agile methods, DevOps, and new technologies, and yet the desired impact on collaboration, accountability, and decision-making often fails to materialize. A key lever for change lies in how organizations are structured. This talk provides an introduction to Holacracy as a model for radical self-organization and places it within the broader landscape of organizational development. It explains what defines Holacracy, the principles behind it, and the problems it aims to address. The focus, however, is not solely on the organizational model. The talk also presents concrete tools and practices of self-organization, such as clear role definitions, structured decision-making processes, and transparent governance, that can be applied regardless of the organizational structure in place. **Lea Düker** * Since 2024: IT Project Manager and Scrum Master at digital agency Unic AG * 2021–2024: Project Manager and Deputy Head of IT at the Building Department of the City of Zurich * 2018–2021: Consultant for Process Management at Join GmbH * 2016–2018: Master's degree in Business Management with a specialization in Process Management **From Bottlenecks to Flow: OKRs, Value Stream Management, and Governance Done Right** In our session, we'll be delving into the advanced flow engineering practices we've implemented at KPMG CH for our Cloud Platform. These methods have truly transformed how we deliver outcomes—faster, safer, and with an even greater level of satisfaction. During the session, we'll take a closer look at how we leverage OKRs to align teams and drive strategic goals, and how Value Stream Management helps us optimize workflow and eliminate bottlenecks. Our robust Governance model will also be discussed, highlighting how we maintain compliance without sacrificing agility. Beyond sharing the technical details, we'll reflect on the lessons learned and valuable insights we've gained throughout our journey. Our goal is to provide actionable takeaways that will benefit the DevOps community and inspire organizations seeking to enhance their delivery pipelines and nurture a culture of continuous improvement. **Vasileios Konofaos** Head of Business Services CH Group Digital Vasileios Konofaos is a seasoned technology leader with more than 20 years of experience driving large‑scale software engineering, cloud infrastructure, and digital transformation initiatives. As Director of Business Services CH Group Digital at KPMG Switzerland, he leads high‑impact programs that advance innovation, operational excellence, and AI‑enabled capabilities across the organization. His career spans senior roles in global financial institutions and consulting firms, where he has successfully delivered complex projects in software development, automation, DevOps, and machine learning. Certified in Azure, ITIL, PMP, PRINCE2, and Scrum, Vasileios is recognized for his strategic mindset, strong leadership, and ability to empower teams to achieve exceptional results. He brings deep expertise in systems analysis, project delivery, and process improvement, consistently enabling organizations to scale technology solutions with quality and precision. Many thanks to our **sponsors**: * Catering and Location Sponsor: **KPMG** https://kpmg.com/

**WALK THE TALK** Zurich Toastmasters is the place to be if you want to improve your public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. **Walk the Talk** offers a friendly and inspirational environment for all levels of public speaking experience. Guests and new members are always welcome! A typical meeting includes 1–3 prepared speeches by members, evaluations of the speeches, and Table Topics – impromptu speaking. This meeting is Hybrid. "You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart." John Ford DISCLAIMER: We may take pictures/videos of our events and share them online or on social media. If you do not wish to be in the pictures, please let us know before the meeting starts. We will do our best to respect your wishes.

As it is sometimes difficult in Switzerland to practice high german, in 2010 we decided to organize a conversation group that is free to everyone who wants to practice german and socialize. WhatsApp group for easier contact: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KmMkpiQxs291vTPv2RBNm4

The Sketch Circle Zürich at the Coin Coin COIN COIN\. \- Specialty Coffee \+ Matcha \| Wine Bar \| Art "OFF"space \| Co\-Working \| Events Ernst-Nobs-Platz 1, 8004 Zürich https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q7VHzNZLSktsrRtE6 It’s an informal meeting to chat, chill, network and have a beer between artists and art-interested people. People bring their own sketchbooks, tablets, markers etc. and sketches, draws, paints stuff. But no one is forced to create. You can also just come to have a drink and enjoy the creative vibe of a diverse and inclusive artistic group. In these reels you see how such evenings look like… Here you see how such evening looks like https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKy9hUeqn9F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== See you there.

Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up on a spaceship with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory slowly returns, he soon discovers he must solve the riddle behind a mysterious substance that's causing the sun to die out. As details of the mission unravel, he calls on his scientific training and sheer ingenuity -- but he may not have to do it alone. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Hail_Mary_(film) Staring Ryan Gosling

Ladies, this one’s for you! Join our **Beginner Women-only Dance Fusion class** at The Vibe — a high-energy mix of commercial dance styles that will get your body moving, your confidence soaring! 💃 **Perfect for complete beginners**, each week we learn a **different choreography** set to one of your favorite **iconic sing-along tracks**. Expect empowering moves, and a whole lot of fun — no pressure, no judgment, just pure dance joy! Your teacher **Nat (@nat.so.fun)** will guide you through every step, helping you **boost your confidence, feel the rhythm in your body, and make new girlfriends along the way**. Don’t be fooled by the event page numbers — our weekly crew ranges from **10–15 amazing women**: first-timers, regulars, and a few silent fans who never mark “going” but always show up 😉 *** ### Booking is mandatory! Secure your spot in advance via our website: [BOOK NOW!](https://thevibedance.simplybook.it/v2/#book) *** ### Rates 💃 **Single Class:** CHF 28 - **Zurich Together Special:** CHF 24 (15% off) Use code **"ZhT_VIBE"** at checkout *** ### When? **WEDNESDAY** 19:30 – 20:30 \| Women\-only Dance Fusion Class *** ### Where? **The Vibe Dance Studio** Hohlstrasse 488 8048 Zürich *(Just 3 minutes from Altstetten Train Station and 15 min from HB)* *** ### More info 🌐 [thevibedance.ch](https://thevibedance.ch/) 💬 [WhatsApp Group Chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KQqwU0Tiba5APH8nFrYQK3) 📸 Instagram: [@nat.so.fun](https://www.instagram.com/nat.so.fun) \| [@thevibedance.ch](https://www.instagram.com/thevibedance.ch) Questions? Text or call: 📞 +41 78 329 71 77

**Welcome to Top Notch Toastmasters Zurich!** [www.topnotch.toastmastersclubs.org](http://www.topnotch.toastmastersclubs.org) \*\* Please arrive 15 minutes before, meeting begin \*\* **When & Where** Every Wednesday, 10–15 members and guests meet **in person** to practice public speaking and leadership skills in a friendly, dynamic environment. *(Please note: members don’t RSVP via Meetup.)* **What to Expect** ✅ Self-paced learning—advance at your own speed ✅ Hands-on experience—speak, lead, and grow ✅ Supportive feedback from peers ✅ Guidance from experienced mentors ✅ Monthly workshops—every last Wednesday on communication and public speaking topics **Who We Are** Part of **Toastmasters International**, a global network of over 352,000 members dedicated to helping peoplecommunicate with confidence and discover their leadership potential. **Drinks & Socializing** After each meeting, we head to a nearby bar to relax and connect—perfect for networking and great conversation. Come visit us! Our welcoming team is excited to show you how Toastmasters can help you grow personally and professionally. ✨ **We can’t wait to meet you!** ✨

Join us for an exclusive[ Signature](https://www.signaturebahnhofplatz.ch/en-gb) Open Day featuring guided tours, a tasting of our Italian catering, and a first look at our premium offices, modern meeting rooms, flexible event spaces, and the rooftop restaurant — all located in the heart of Zurich

**Got something you’re designing, experimenting with - or just looking to chat with other creatives?** **Then you’re invited to join us at sphères.** 🙂 We meet monthly to chat and connect in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s a chance to meet new people, talk about what you’re working on, and be part of Zürich’s creative community - surrounded by like-minded people who just get it. PS: RSVPs are coming in from multiple platforms, which means the total number of sign-ups is likely higher than what you see here. 🥂 **Why swing by?** * Find new collaborators, clients, employers and friends * Swap ideas, get feedback, and share experiences * Meet in a cozy after-work drinks atmosphere * Join creatives from various fields and ages. 📍 **Where?** [sphères](https://share.google/iOZR7HY6DqyLDm2Kj), next to the Limmat river. \> Hardturmstrasse 66\, 8005 Zürich (Tram-Station Förrlibuckstrasse) ⏰ **When?** Every second Thursday of the month, starting at 6 PM / 18:00 Uhr 🔗 **Discord link** Get event reminders and connect with other members on Discord: ➡️ [discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk](discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk) —— **Who’s Visual Fields?** Visual Fields is a network of designers and creatives built for people to connect, support, and share with fellow experts. We have upcoming events in Zürich, Basel, and Luzern. [Check out upcoming events](https://www.visualfields.ch/) —— **Event policies** We have zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Be mindful not to make assumptions about gender, sexual orientation, or identity. Always ask for consent - for physical contact and work critique - and treat everyone and the space with respect. [All policies](https://experienc.es/policies) **Fine print (the friendly kind)** By joining, you agree that photos or videos taken at the event may be used by Visual Fields for promotional and communication purposes. See you soon!! 🤩

Hare is Keys to the Treasure. Since Zurich Marathon weekend is approaching, this'll be an easy and short trail with a focus on fluid replenishment :) **Where**: Brauerei Oerlikon, in Oerlikon. Look for English speakers wearing running gear. **When:** We'll meet at 6:50 pm to start at 7:00 pm. There's a charge of CHF 5 for participating, which covers all you can drink beer/cider (and non-alcoholic alternatives) plus snacks afterwards. **All Welcome:** If you are new, curious, and want to get out of the house, stretch your legs, talk shit, enjoy a drink, and hopefully a laugh, then here's what you need to know: • We are a social running/walking group, physical fitness is not required, but a sense of humour is useful. • The aim is to find the '*Beer Stop*' at the end of the '*trail*' and have fun. • 'True Trail' is typically 4-7 km. Some will go less (especially those walking or walk/running), and some over-achieving fast runners will go further. • The '*Hare*', which changes each event (along with location), cleverly lays the trail (typically with flour marks) so that everyone reaches the end at the same time. • There is always a place to deposit your bag and sometimes a place to change. • **After Trail**, we group for \~20-40 minutes for drinks, snacks, and some fun. This '*Circle*' is typically outside, so leave something warm in your bag in winter (and bring a flashlight when it's dark). If you don't want to stand around drinking afterwards, you can head home. We occasionally all go to a restaurant afterwards. **Why bother leaving your warm & dry sofa?** If you enjoy getting outside, being around people, and doing something a bit different, you will probably enjoy hashing. Exercise is important, and this is probably the least boring way to get it. 'Hashing' and the idea of some physical activity to work up a thirst, have been around for almost 90 years and there are groups (*Hashes*) in most major cities. Its humor and 'traditions' can be explored on the internet - **or you can just come along and find out.** *See you there.* We are of many nationalities, all ages, full of misfits and idiots (at least there is no one taking themselves seriously!) and always welcome newbies 'Virgin Hashers' and visitors from other groups. For more about Zürich Hash House Harriers, check out [www.zh3.ch](http://www.zh3.ch/) ( [http://www.zh3.ch/](http://www.zh3.ch/) )

Apéro Mensuel

✨ Glow Up: Design Your Own Table Lamp Ready to spark your creativity? Join our "Bastl mit" workshop in Zurich-Oerlikon! You’ll receive a stylish, minimalist table lamp and transform it into your own personal design statement. We provide all the colors, textures, and materials you need to create a true one-of-a-kind piece. Whether your vibe is cool urban, playful, or bold: Your style, your light! No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm! It’s the perfect way to spend a creative afternoon and walk away with a gorgeous, self-made lamp (or a unique gift!). What’s Included: • 1 high-quality table lamp (ready to customize) • Full access to paints, brushes, pens, decor & more • Inspiration, creative guidance & relaxed atmosphere • Drinks & snacks to fuel your glow! No Stress: Late Arrivals Welcome! We know you've had a busy week and are looking forward to the weekend. That's why it's no problem if you arrive late! We just ask that you send us a quick message so we can open the door for you. For those in a rush, we even have "Express Glow-Up" methods for your lamp! 😉 Let’s bastl – with style and glow! ✨💖 Join us and let’s create something brilliant – Let’s sparkle! The workshops are held in English and German. 🇩🇪🇬🇧 Tickets at: https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/kunst-ausstellungen/weitere-kunstveranstaltungen/glow-up-table-lamp-design-workshop-all-included-7444735080453398820.html

**Hike description:** The hike starts before the train station Altmatt at 11:15 you need to be fit and have good hiking shoes. The concert begins at 7:00 p.m., so let’s aim to finish the hike 15 min before it starts to have a good place. The last kilometers are along the Zürich lake. If we are late, we can take a bus. If we are too early (and the water not too cold), we can swim, [von Hochmoor Rothenthurm nach Wädenswil | Wanderung | Komoot](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2777682564?share_token=a22S3zJVK5xCstbx5AgAIK3KILf5ZfJSgUNylA2aYvgc9IYyWa&ref=wtd) **How to go with the train (from Zurich and I will meet you on the way):** [Das Online-Portal der SBB für Fahrplan, Zug und ÖV](https://www.sbb.ch/de?stops=Z%C3%BCrich+HB_I8503000~Rothenthurm,+Altmatt+Bahnhof_I8587856&day=2026-04-11&time=09_08&moment=dep&trip=3) **More information about the concert** the concert starts at 19:00 in the Ref. Kirche Wädenswil More information about this concert: [Konzerte | JSO Crescendo](https://jso-crescendo.ch/konzerte) It’s free, but donations are very welcome. **dedicated Whatsapp group** [WhatsApp-Gruppeneinladung](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HlsJBlVKqd1JSvHrAYZmJI) **If the hike is not long enough for you:** The hike start only at 11:15 because I suppose walking 7:30 is already long for a lot of people but, don't hesitate to tell in the whatsapp group if you what to make it longer by starting earlier. The only constraint is to be in Altmatt before 11:15 to join the main group. **Registration:** To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity: [🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V) If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group) If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group). Please sign up only when you are certain! You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** GitHub Copilot is powerful, but what if you could scale from a solo AI assistant to an entire team of specialized agents working in parallel? This session introduces Squad: an open-source framework for multi-agent orchestration that lets you define teams of AI agents with specific roles, responsibilities, and expertise. We'll progress from Copilot basics to the Copilot CLI, explore how Agents add autonomy, and see how Instructions and Skills let you customize agent behavior. Then, the climax: a live demo where a Squad team of 3 agents (Lead, Developer, Tester) stands up and builds a working application in real-time, showcasing true multi-agent collaboration. Whether you're new to AI or exploring how to scale your use of Copilot, this session will show you what's possible when agents work as a team. **YouTube Link** TBD

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Let’s try this popular Italian restaurant in Reynoldsburg. This is the menu: https://scaliristorante.com/#4e468054-0235-43e2-81c2-44e061341e9e

**The Data-Driven Brand: Using Analytics to Shape Perception** Can you use analytics to improve tacos? This being CBUSDAW, we think the answer is probably “yes”, but we’re not sure how to implement or test this theory. For our April meetup we’ve got Sara Kear, CMO of Condado Tacos, to investigate this delicious question. Sara will explore how she blends quantitative data and qualitative customer feedback to shape brand positioning and drive business decisions. We all know that marketing and analytics go way beyond attribution. Sara will show how Condado uses customer insights to inform product and pricing strategy. She’ll also highlight how Condado leverages customer feedback at scale to influence operational priorities, positioning marketing as the voice of the customer across the organization. In the last 12 years Condado has gone from one location in Columbus to 52 locations across 10 states, so we’re guessing there’s more to that growth than really good guac (though the guac probably helps). Ultimately, this talk focuses on the intersection of art and science—using data to inform creativity and build a brand that resonates with customers in a measurable way. **About Our Speaker** Sara Kear is Chief Marketing Officer at Condado Tacos, where she oversees brand, restaurant design, menu and pricing strategy, off-premise including catering, and customer data strategy. Since joining in 2021, she has helped grow the brand from 19 to 52 locations while building a data-driven marketing organization focused on loyalty and customer insights. Condado has since been named to the Inc. 5000, recognized as Breakout Retailer by Chain Store Age, and consistently ranked among FastCasual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)