Lightning Talks

This session will be a tad different. Instead of 1 meeting with 1 topic we will have 3 speakers each with a topic.

We will have Brian Gorman, Alec Harrison, and Vaibhav Gujral all 3 Microsoft MVPs presenting on unique topics.

Brian: Using AI as a Learning Partner, Not a Shortcut
AI tools have made it easier than ever to ask questions, generate explanations, and explore new topics. But using AI to actually learn, not just get answers, requires a different approach.
In this talk, we will look at practical ways people can use AI as a learning partner to explore unfamiliar concepts, clarify gaps in understanding, and get unstuck without outsourcing thinking entirely.
We will talk about:
- How to ask better questions so AI helps you learn instead of just responding
- Using AI to explain, reframe, and challenge your understanding
- How to avoid over-reliance while still getting real value
- Setting boundaries that keep conversations grounded and useful
This talk is not about replacing teachers or expertise.
It is about using AI to support learning in a way that keeps you engaged, curious, and in control of your own understanding.

Alec: How to be a forward deployed engineer and why you should care?

We will cover what it means to me to be a FDE and why you should care about it. Join for some quick tips, ideas on how to get started, and how you can invest in yourself if you want to join the rapidly growing field.

Vaibhav: Coming soon