Join GDG Perth for an exciting day of technology, developers, AI, and community.
DevFest Perth 2026 on 30 October 2026, bringing together developers, students, tech enthusiasts, founders, and professionals from across Perth.
Expect an event focused on:
🤖 AI & emerging technologies
💻 Developer technologies
☁️ Cloud & Google technologies
🛠️ Hands-on learning
🤝 Networking & community
🚀 Careers, projects & opportunities
The Developer in an Age of AI: Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Industry
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping software delivery, development workflows, and team dynamics at an unprecedented pace. In this talk, Alexander Zhidkov explores what it means to be a developer in the age of AI, moving beyond just writing code to managing complexity, embracing agentic workflows, and continuously developing human capabilities.
Whether you are looking to future-proof your skill set or understand how engineering culture must shift, this session offers a pragmatic, forward-looking perspective on thriving in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Code is cheap, verification is hard: building self-correcting AI workflows.
AI can now generate code, build applications, and automate complex engineering tasks faster than ever before. But as code generation becomes cheaper and more accessible, a new challenge emerges: how do we know whether the output is actually correct?
Explore how self-correcting AI workflows can verify results, detect failures, and iteratively improve AI-generated solutions to build more reliable software.
📅 Date: Friday, 30 October 2026
📍 Location: Jacobs, Mia Yellagonga, Level 5, Tower 2/5 Spring St, Perth WA 6000
🎤 Speakers:
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Alexander Zhidkov is an AI Tech Lead and pragmatic, business-minded technology leader based in Perth with over 20 years of experience spanning software development, architecture, and team leadership. A passionate advocate for lean principles, modern engineering practices, and agentic workflows. He is an active voice in Perth's tech community.
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JK Gunnink is a Google Developer Expert (GDE) in Google Cloud, passionate about sharing knowledge and contributing to the developer community. With experience in cloud architecture, software engineering, and DevOps, he focuses on building practical solutions that help teams develop, test, and deliver software more reliably. He is particularly interested in how AI is transforming software development and enabling more intelligent, self-correcting workflows.
🍕 Includes: Food, drinks, and networking
Follow GDG Perth and keep an eye out for updates as we announce one more speakers.
#DevFestPerth #DevFest2026 #GDGPerth #GoogleDevelopers #PerthTech #AI #Developers
Agenda
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Speakers
Alexander Zhidkov
JK Gunnink
Cloud & Software Engineer. Harbinger of DevOps. Serverless enthusiast.
Hosted By
Madhab Dhakal, Community Organiser
Madhab Dhakal is a dynamic and accomplished Senior Software Engineer with extensive experience in application development, database management, and systems integration across diverse platforms. Proficient in Adobe ColdFusion, Java, and GIS environments, he serves as the Technical Architect and ColdFusion expert for the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia. Madhab has played a pivotal role in enhancing the TRIS system for Transperth, optimizing operational efficiency, and supporting mapping and geographical information applications. With strong expertise in technical architecture, application performance optimization, and modernizing legacy platforms, Madhab is recognized for driving innovation, mentoring teams, and delivering robust solution that align with Jacobs’ digital transformation initiatives.
Nasla Joshi, Community Organiser
Sugam Neupane, Software Engineer
Pukar Upreti, Technology Service Desk Officer
Experienced web developer with a bachelor’s degree in IT (Computer Science and Information Technology).Demonstrated success in developing websites and web applications of varying sizes and complexities, ensuring consistent quality assurance and governance across projects ranging from small-scale to large-scale developments. Seeking to leverage and enhance development skills, this confident and competent individual excels both independently and as part of a team. Proficient in the software delivery life cycle, this professional takes pride in meticulous attention to detail, evident in the high-quality work produced. With a can-do attitude towards work and career development, committed to delivering exceptional results.
Ishan Basnet, Organizer
Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-perth-presents-devfest-perth-2026/.
