Full-Stack Simplicity Meets Agentic AI: An Introduction to Apache Grails 8

Abstract
Join us for an introduction to Apache Grails 8, the latest major release of the high-productivity, Groovy-based web framework built on Spring Boot. Grails continues to deliver on its core promise of dramatically simplifying full-stack Java development through convention-over-configuration, expressive DSLs, powerful GORM data access across SQL and NoSQL, flexible views, a rich plugin ecosystem, and seamless Spring Boot integration, while aligning with the modern Java 21+ and Spring Boot 4 ecosystem for better performance, modularity, and developer experience.

This session highlights what is new and improved in Grails 8, including key dependency upgrades, stronger alignment with the latest Spring and Gradle advancements, and the framework’s continued maturation as a Top-Level Apache project.

We will take it several levels higher by weaving in advanced Agentic Engineering practices and AI-driven workflows. This is exactly how modern development happens now. See how Grails’ elegant simplicity and rapid feedback loops become a perfect multiplier for AI agents, enabling intelligent scaffolding, automated code generation and refactoring, smarter testing, documentation, and even orchestrating complex feature implementation. Whether you are using agents to explore, plan, implement, verify, or release Grails applications, you will discover practical patterns that turn vibe coding into durable, maintainable, high-velocity engineering.

This talk blends foundational knowledge for newcomers with forward-looking insights for experienced developers and teams. Expect practical takeaways, real-world examples, and inspiration for building and evolving full-stack applications faster and more enjoyably than ever, powered by the combination of Grails 8’s productivity layers and modern agentic AI.

Ideal for Java and Groovy developers, architects, and anyone looking to boost output without sacrificing quality or control in the AI era.

Speaker
James Fredley is a serial technology entrepreneur, executive, volunteer, and investor with over 28 years of experience in software engineering, digital marketing, and startup growth. He has managed $1 billion in cumulative revenue across multiple startups, scaling them from minimal or zero revent to 7-10 figures per year. He is the Vice President and Chair of the Apache Grails Project Management Committee at the Apache Software Foundation, and a 2025 Grails Rock Star. He is member of the Computer Science Department Executive Board at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, and an alumnus. He is based in Raleigh North Carolina where he lives with his wife and four sons.

Meeting Details
We'll be meeting at Improving Enterprises, 5445 Legacy Dr #100, Plano, TX 75024

The pizza and networking start at 6:30pm and the meeting at 7pm. Come have a great evening of learning with your fellow local Java enthusiasts!

Please RSVP for this event and enter our online drawing for a chance to win great prizes!