Finding Meaning in Connections: A Practical Demo with NetworkX

Welcome to our next Python Meetup! Whether you're a seasoned developer or just beginning your Python journey, this event is designed to help you dive deeper into the language, meet fellow enthusiasts, and share insights. We’ve lined up an exciting main technical talk that will showcase innovative ideas in Python, followed by lightning talks where community members present quick, interesting projects or tips. It’s a great opportunity to learn, network, and collaborate.

Feel free to grab some refreshments, get comfortable, and get ready for an engaging evening of Python!

Date: 15 July, 2025
Time: 6pm-8pm
Location: Improving, 10111 Richmond Ave. # 100, Houston, TX 77042

### Welcome and Networking

• Time: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
• Description: Attendees check in, grab refreshments, and network with fellow Python enthusiasts.

### Opening Remarks

• Time: 6:30 PM – 6:40 PM
• Speaker: Dillon Niederhut
• Description: Brief introduction to the event, agenda rundown, and announcements.

### Main Technical Talk

• Time: 6:40 PM – 7:20 PM
• Title: Finding Meaning in Connections: A Practical Demo with NetworkX
• Speaker: Walker Hale
• Description: How do you analyze a dataset when its structure only makes sense as a web of interconnected events? In this talk, we’ll walk through a real-world (but redacted) example where traditional approaches failed—and where the Python library NetworkX offered a breakthrough. You'll see how graph-based analysis made it possible to identify clusters, uncover hidden structure, and extract actionable insights from seemingly chaotic data. No theory, just practical application.
• Bio: Walker Hale leads the Submissions team at the Human Genome Sequencing Center at Baylor College of Medicine, where he oversees the timely and accurate delivery of genomic data for downstream research. With a background in Physics and a career rooted in software development, he specializes in crafting efficient, automated solutions using Python and Unix tools. His work bridges the gap between raw data and scientific discovery.

### Lightning Talks

• Time: 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Description: 5-minute talks on various Python-related topics. Lightning talks are meant to be quick and informal, showcasing small projects, tools, or quick tips. Lightning talk sign-ups are at the event!
• Format: Each speaker has 5 minutes to present, followed by 2 minutes for questions.