Computer Engineering

📅 **Week 3 Focus: Training Your Own Deep Learning Model** Each 7-week cycle focuses on a small, well-defined part of a larger system—and over time, these cycles build toward a complete, real-world project Feel free to join at any week and we will catch you up. There is no need to be at the beginning of the cohort to build. Complete beginners welcomed! 📌 By the End of a Full Cycle, You should Have 🎯 A working project in your own GitHub repo 🎯 A small but real portfolio piece you can demo or write about 🧠 **Current Project** This cycle’s shared project is an **image-based knowledge extraction system**. In Week 2, we explored classical computer vision with OpenCV and introduced the full data labeling workflow needed for deep learning models. In **Week 3**, we’ll make the jump into modern deep learning with **YOLO**: * Quick recap of OpenCV techniques and how they compare to deep learning approaches * Intuition-first overview of how YOLO works (what it predicts, how training actually happens) * How labeled datasets are used to train object detection models * Walkthrough of training YOLO on your own project data \*\*\* **👋 Who Is This For?** 🔹 Beginners who learn best by doing — no prior experience needed 🔹 Career switchers from product, engineering, design, marketing, or other fields who want to break into data 🔹 Analysts, engineers, and PMs looking to sharpen their skills or build real-world projects 🔹 Data professionals who want a creative playground outside of work 🔹 Anyone with big questions and a love for learning through experimentation \*\*\* **BUILD. LEARN. EXPERIMENT. OVER COFFEE.** Come hang out, meet like-minded people, and work on something fun. 📍 Based in Berlin – in-person meetups only (for now!) 💻 Laptops + ☕ highly encouraged Join our Discord → [https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w](https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w) Check out our program resources: [Google Drive](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15DmZqD4bLBk2vU4zpvh1HiB3_5n09v-q?usp=sharing) \*\*\* ✨ Who’s Hosting? I’m Lindsey, a senior data scientist working on AI, causal inference, and data products. I’ve built models for fraud detection, uplift modeling, and LLM-based systems. I am always open to suggestion for different format for this meetup.

**Berlin’s Only Comedy Show That Fixes Your Problems (Kind Of)!** Stand-up comedy meets hilarious, unqualified life advice! Comedians tackle your anonymously submitted problems live on stage—roasting, dissecting, and turning them into comedy gold. **Where?** The hidden Mitte gem —**Art.City.People** in **Heckmann-Höfe!** **When?** Doors: **8:00 PM** \| Show: **8:30 PM** **Tickets?** FREE—**but seats are limited, so book now!** Come for the stand-up, stay for the therapy—just bring your problems (or a friend with worse ones). Every show is a fresh mix of **four experienced comedians and new audience problems**—so you never know what to expect! Hosted by **Lena Stolby** — she’s Russian, so she *really* knows about problems! **&** We are a free entry show, and **have been running solely thanks to the support of the audience**, so to help us keep making this world a drama free place we **suggest a donation from €10-15!** The room gets very busy, so, to make sure you get a seat please book a seat via Eventbrite here (it’s free): https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/comedy-therapy-events-1626059

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

**Get ready for savage laughs, kinky confessions, and top-tier comedians spilling the tea on all things fetish. At the legendary Incognito Showpalast, smack in the heart of Schöneberg's iconic LGBT+ nightlife district. (In English!)** Presented by Vilain Garçon Part of BLACKWEEKENDBerlin by male.space – the ultimate leather & fetish blowout! Doors slam open: 8:30 PM Show explodes at: 9:00 PM ***This show is open to all genders and sexualities! We are an English-language event with a k!nky vibe but everyone who is open-minded with a good sense of humour is welcome! Dress up in fetish or just dress however you want!*** **HOST:** **BEN MacLEAN** Ben MacLean has over 30 million views online and is one of Berlin’s most established comedians. A long-time member of BLF e.V – Berlin Leather Fetish, he has hosted the FETISH COMEDY SHOW since it burst onto the scene in 2016. He also emcees Go West Comedy, one of the city’s longest-running showcases, and has performed around the globe. The world’s only diplomat turned comedian, he also works as a flight attendant and content creator. All this to say, If you recognize Ben from some of his “non-comedy” content online, that’s something he’ll neither confirm nor deny. **HEADLINER:** **EMIN AFANDI** Emin Afandi is a Berlin-based comedian originally from Azerbaijan. Known for his sharp and sexy stand-up, Emin's comedy often draws comparisons to Joan Rivers and Ali Wong, particularly for his adeptness at weaving sexual themes into complex political and social discussions. Emin has traveled extensively and performed in many countries across Europe, enhancing his exposure and experience in diverse comedic environments. He also hosts the popular monthly show "Worldvision Comedy Contest," a highlight in Berlin's comedy scene. You can check out his podcast, "The Universe of Roast," available on Spotify. **FEATURED PERFORMER:** **JULIETA** Julieta is a Berlin-based stand-up comedian, active participant in the kink scene, and your favourite bad idea with good timing. She produces and hosts English-language comedy showcases, performing in some of Berlin’s most legendary nightlife locations, including KitKatClub, Kater and Club OST. At parties like Pinky Promise, Fourplay and Liminal she also offers kinky tarot readings that tell you exactly what you already know—but hotter! Originally from somewhere mysterious in the south, she performs across Europe and even the USA--whenever that goes back to being chill. Please note that the lineup for this show may change due to unforeseen circumstances, however we always promise high-quality sexy comedy. Ticket prices Advance purchase: €17 (limited quantity discount price)-€24 (advance purchase) (plus booking fee) At the door: €30

**Relax. Connect. Create. 🎨☕** After a full week of work, meetings, study sessions and life in fast-forward, it’s time to slow down. Join us this Saturday afternoon in Berlin for a relaxed coffee hang-out where this week's agenda is good company & warm drinks. You're also invited to bring some boardgames, drawing/coloring materials (I will bring an adult coloring book) **What’s the plan?** We’ll meet in a cosy spot, draw, chat about everything and nothing, swap stories and simply enjoy the moment. No pressure. No formalities. Just a bunch of friendly people sharing a Saturday coffee. **Who’s welcome?** Everyone! Whether you’re a Berliner born and raised, newly arrived in the city, from Germany or abroad, if you like meeting open-minded folks and spending some relaxed time—come join us. **When & how?** Saturday afternoon. Detailed time and place in our Telegram group. ➡️ Join us on Telegram: [https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee](https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee) Hop in, say hello, and we’ll share the final details. **Why join?** * Because you deserve a break. * Because you enjoy being creative. * Because you enjoy boardgames * Because meeting new people sparks fresh energy. * Because coffee tastes even better when shared. * Because Saturday afternoons were made for this. Respect and Safety: There is always at least one organizer present at every meetup. If you ever feel unsafe or bothered by someone’s behavior, you can reach out to an organizer privately. Your identity will remain confidential, your concern will be taken seriously, and no inappropriate behavior is tolerated — anyone making others feel uncomfortable will be removed from the group immediately. We hope to see you there. Bring yourself, your smile, drawing materials, your stories—or just your comfy self. 😊 Let’s make Saturday a little more laid-back, a little more social and a lot more nice. See you soon! —Your Saturday Creative Coffee Crew ☕

THE comedy show for your Saturday outing! Award-winning headliner, supported by 3 hand-picked acts, in a cult theater & expat bar Oblomov! BOOK AT [eastwestcomedy.com](eastwestcomedy.com) to guarantee seats!!! **Headliner: Tera Kilbride (USA).** Tera Kilbride is an international stand-up comedian, host and producer with over 10 years of experience. As seen on The Hamburg International Comedy Festival (2021/2022/2023) hosting for the Berlin New Standup Awards (2022/2023), and Berlin Mental Health Festival at Cosmic Comedy (2021); and Boom Chicago! Comedy Festival (2022). She was featured on the Television Show Standup Revolution (2022). Tera’s comedy tackles mental health, growing up, sex and dating, dark humor, and being an expat in Europe. Tera´s known for her energetic delivery, her bold content and fearlessly engaging with her audience. In addition to her jokes, Tera hosts several of her own shows per month, and is high in demand. ! ! Our Saturday shows have been SOLD OUT almost every time, so PLEASE book online and don't take chances ;) !! To start your Saturday night hangout, you deserve the best show you can get - and Neukölln's hottest comedy club is delivering just that! Come watch an extended set by a top international headliner, supported by the hottest comedy talent from Europe, UK, USA, Asia, South America and more. All in Berlin's cult theater-style venue with a bar, Oblomov Kreuzkoelln. Artisan cocktails, great local beers and amazing atmosphere of true international Berlin will help you start your weekend with a bang. Come one, come all! Google rating (220+ reviews): 5.0 / 5.0 ★★★★★ “Laughed a lot, will come again for sure” Oliver, UK ★★★★★ “A cozy place with high quality live comedy!” Joanna, Hong Kong ★★★★★ “Great comedy show, talented comics and very nice atmosphere” Mariia, Ukraine ★★★★★ “Comedians were good, beer was good, ambiance was super nice!” Gaelle, Lebanon ★★★★★ “The humour hit us right on the spot!” Eve, China ★★★★★ “Perfect evening of laughter” Igor, Croatia ★★★★★ “Cozy stand-up venue with hilarious international artists and audience!” Elvira, Russia ★★★★★ “Great new shows at one of Berlin’s coolest venues!” James, USA Doors: 7:00 PM Show:7:30 PM Entry: Pay What You Want\* (seat reservation required): you reserve your seat for free, and Pay What You Want at the end of the show, depending on how much you think the show is worth (recommended fee: €10-15). Reservations expire 10 minutes before the start of the show. \*It is not within our principles to promote a show as "Free Entry" and ask for a "not-so-voluntary" donation at the end. This show is paid - we just let you decide the price ;)

Das Sufi-Zentrum Rabbaniyya setzt Die Schatzkammer der Liebe fort. Inspiriert von Hazrat Farid ad-Din Attars „Mantıq-at Tayr", Vogelgespräche, bietet die Veranstaltungsreihe faszinierende Einblicke in die Erzähltradition des mystischen Orients und die sufische Reise zur Selbsterkenntnis. Jeden Monat werden die Besucherlnnen durch meditative Gesänge und die Tänze der Derwische aus dem Sufi-Zentrum Rabbaniyya in die mystischen Dimensionen des traditionellen Sufismus entrückt. Die Veranstaltung ist kostenfrei, der Eintritt ins Museum erfolgt über die gegebenen Bedingungen unter https://www.humboldtforum.org/de/programm/termin/lesung/rumis-schatzkammer-der-liebe-72781/

Join this **Interview Simulation** session — to sharpen the skills for both interviews **and** architectural pitches. 💡 How it works The event is split into three parts: 1. **Answers for common behavioral questions** \- at the beginning\, I will read some common interview questions\, explain what they mean\, and give the correct answers\. 2. **Interview Simulation (10 minute rounds)** – One participant acts as the interviewee and answers a round of behavioral and design-focused questions. Each other participant gets to ask him one interview question. 3. **Feedback Round** – The group provides feedback on communication, structure, and clarity. Constructive criticism is encouraged. 💡You will be asked: * **Behavioral questions** (“Tell me about yourself”, “Describe a challenge you faced...”) * **Technical questions** (based on your tech stack) * **Light design problems** (high-level reasoning, not code) No need to prepare anything in advance — just bring curiosity and an open mind. Feel free to bring your CV if you’d like feedback from others, or share a few words if you’re currently job hunting. If so, we will also brainstorm answers to more common questions that you were asked. Whether you’re preparing for an interview or simply want to grow as a software designer or architect, this session is for you. Note: location is restaurant Hackesher Hoff: https://maps.app.goo.gl/btSChwkJzaoUSfN7A 💡Resources: * IT portfolio ideas: ideabrowser.com , reddit.com/r/SideProject * mock interview platforms: pramp.com , interviewbit.com , finalroundai.com * online coding platforms: leetcode.com, hackerrank.com, codewars.com , codingame.com , projecteuler.net ,techiedelight.com , exercism.org * confidence building exercises: [Confidence exercises ](https://limewire.com/d/o4tZw#RLA03qdOxU) , [reddit discussion](https://www.reddit.com/r/jobs/comments/1cjlblp/how_in_the_world_do_you_keep_your_selfesteem_up/) , [another discussion](https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-keep-my-self-esteem-from-being-destroyed-while-job-hunting) , [quora discussion](https://www.quora.com/In-my-late-50s-I-find-myself-out-of-work-for-the-first-time-in-30-years-How-do-I-replace-apprehension-and-anxiety-with-confidence-to-job-hunt) * success stories: [story 1](https://www.reddit.com/r/RemoteJobseekers/comments/1p8faip/i_finally_landed_a_remote_job_after_10_months_of/), [story 2](https://www.reddit.com/r/RemoteJobseekers/comments/1fdpeg2/how_i_landed_multiple_remote_job_offers_my_remote/)

Welcome to Sunday Tech Coffee. This is a **networking** event for those in the tech industry in Berlin. We are usually inside and to the right. Ask the barista/bartender if you can't find us.

**Step right up for a fortune-telling experience that's barely accurate, but definitely unforgettable.** Magdalena, the "fortune teller", combines a crystal ball, questionable predictions and a healthy dose of dark humour in a show that's as absurd as it is entertaining. Described by the 'Scotsman' (top newspaper in the UK) as 'unexpected, clever, ridiculous but great stuff, crystal ball and all', this interactive comedy has left audiences worldwide laughing and wondering what just happened. Some say it's life-changing, others call it pure nonsense-but no one escapes without a few laughs, some spirit summoning and answers you probably didn't want. **Sold out run in Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025** Reserve your seat for just €2, and at the end of the show, you decide what it was worth (suggested contribution: €10-15). Reservations are held until 10 minutes before the show starts. This is a paid show—you just get to choose how much to pay. **Make sure to reserve your ticket [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/01-accurate-english-comedy-night-tickets-1980718239574?aff=meetup)** Door open- 20:00 Show starts- 20:30

Chitta Walks is for people whose days move fast, while the mind never fully lands. Thoughts keep looping even when nothing is urgent. The body moves, but attention is elsewhere. Over time, this disconnect drains clarity and ease. This walk is a simple reset. We meet in Berlin’s Tiergarten and walk at a gentle pace. Parts of the walk are in silence, with light guidance and a few short prompts. The walk itself is the practice, bringing body and mind back into the same moment. No apps. No performance. Just a clear space to slow down and notice what is happening. If you want to slow down without withdrawing from life, join a Chitta Walk. ✨ **What to expect (approx. 90 minutes):** * A short arrival and orientation * A guided silent walk (phones off, no conversation) * One concise science-based impulse on attention or stress * Optional reflection in pairs or small groups * A simple takeaway or experiment for daily life 🚶**Who this is for:** * Professionals, creatives, and people in transition. * People who feel mentally busy and want more clarity and balance. * Those curious about mindfulness, but grounded and practical. * Anyone comfortable with silence and gentle self observation. 🔔 **Practical notes:** * Duration: 60-90 minutes * Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing * No prior experience needed * Group size is limited to keep the space quiet and focused 🧭 **Facilitator:** My name is Partha Sarathi, you can call me PS. I have lived in Berlin for over 12 years. With a background in physics and materials science, my interest in mindfulness grew through personal experience with stress and health challenges. I facilitate the space and structure of the walk, inviting shared exploration rather than instruction. 🤔 **Why Chitta Walks?** Chitta is a Sanskrit word referring to the mind or field of awareness, used here in a practical, non-religious sense. Chitta Walks is about noticing how the mind works by slowing down and walking together. Mindful walking makes thought patterns visible in real time, while moving and sensing in the world. The name points to a simple capacity: noticing what is happening in the mind without immediately trying to fix, judge, or optimize it. 🌿 **Possible effects:** A calmer nervous system. Clearer attention. A felt sense of being more present in your body. Subtle insights into how your mind reacts under everyday conditions. A quieter, more grounded way of moving through the city. **Come as you are. Walk. Notice. Leave with a little more space inside.**

**Worum geht’s?** Entdecke die Kraft der Worte – in Gemeinschaft. In dieser offenen Gruppe lesen wir gemeinsam kurze literarische Texte – Gedichte, Mikrotexte oder Auszüge aus längeren Werken – und lassen uns von ihnen zum Schreiben einladen. Nach dem gemeinsamen Lesen nehmen wir uns Zeit zum Nachdenken und Austausch. Anschließend schreiben wir 20–30 Minuten Seite an Seite – inspiriert von einzelnen Worten, Sätzen oder dem, was uns gerade bewegt. Im Mittelpunkt stehen nicht handwerkliche Aspekte, sondern das persönliche Erleben, das Gefühl von Verbundenheit und die Funken, die Worte in uns entzünden können – besonders für Menschen, die belastende Erfahrungen gemacht haben, und alle, die auf der Suche nach neuen Perspektiven sind. Wer möchte, kann am Ende den Text teilen, der während der Sitzung entstanden ist – genauso willkommen ist es, einfach nur zuzuhören. Das Teilen ist immer freiwillig. **Die Teilnahme ist kostenlos – und ohne Anmeldung möglich.** **Über die Gruppenleiterin** **[Ingrid E. Johnson](https://ingridejohnson.com/de)** ist Deutsch-Amerikanerin, Gründerin von RECASAS und Peer-Support-Spezialistin. Lesen und Schreiben haben ihr selbst durch schwierige Zeiten geholfen. Schreiben in Gemeinschaft bedeutet für sie eine andere Quelle von Kraft und Inspiration – und genau dieses Erlebnis möchte sie ermöglichen. Mehr Informationen hier: https://recasas.org/2025/10/01/lesen-schreiben-teilen/ In Zusammenarbeit mit RECASAS, im Rahmen der Sonntagsöffnung der Amerika-Gedenkbibliothek (ZLB), veranstaltet von artecom.

Bist du bereit für viele positive Veränderungen? Dann kommt der Access Bars® Kurs genau richtig für dich! Jeden Tag erleben knapp eine Million Menschen weltweit die transformative Kraft dieses Körperprozesses. Wissenschaftliche Studien belegen die positiven Wirkungen auf das Gehirn, das Nervensystem und den Körper. Die Access Bars® berühren alle Aspekte des Lebens: Beziehung, Körper, Alterung, Heilung, Selbstliebe, Freude, Trauer, Beziehung und Kommunikation, innerer Frieden ua. Klick auf meine Website und erfahre, was die Bars® bewirken können und welche kraftvollen Werkzeuge du an diesem Kurstag mit nach Hause nimmst. https://www.i-feel-so-good.de/access-consciousness/access-consciousness-einzelsessions/access-bodyprozesse.html Nachdem du den Kurs abgeschlossen hast, erhältst du das Practitioner Zertifikat. Es qualifiziert dich, die Access Bars® anderen zu geben, deinen Familienmitgliedern, deinen Freunden und deinen Klienten. Und natürlich kannst du die Bars® auch bei dir selbst anwenden. Nach dem Kurs kannst du dich mit anderen Praktizierenden zum Austausch treffen. Bist du bereit für ein leichteres Leben? Dann freue ich mich, wenn du mit dabei bist! Kontaktiere mich gerne, wenn du Fragen hast oder eine Kennenlernsession buchen möchtest. PS: Die Anmeldung für den Kurs ist nur telefonisch möglich.

Silent Book Club is a group of book lovers who enjoy reading together in public. All books and all readers are welcome. (Kindly RSVP 'yes' only if you can make it, so we can save a seat for you and our fellow readers on the waitlist!) This page-turning party will unfold in the Café (1st floor) at the Bode Museum. There's no entrance fee, but please order at least one item from the cafe and don't bring any outside drinks :) No quizzes, no pressure, no assigned books - just a group of book-loving souls basking in the beauty of silent reading. **Our thrilling agenda:** 10:30 am - 11:00 am - Arrivals, ordering drinks/food (social time) 11:00 am - 12:00 pm - The Great Quiet Reading Hour (where silence is the star) 12:00 pm - 13:00 pm - Optional socializing, share your reading adventures or just keep exploring the pages Stay for lunch, and who knows? You might just find your next favorite book over a pizza. NB: If you plan to go for lunch, please consider bringing cash, as some restaurants only accept card payments after a certain amount.

Join us on **Tuesday, February 10, 2026,** for our next **Loudoun CyberTech Event** at **Honor Brewing Company** at **42604 Trade West Dr, Sterling, VA 20166**! Want a custom name tag to enhance your networking opportunities? Register here and yours will be ready at the door: https://share.hsforms.com/1nxjC-D1RQISSo6DBxjhJ4wdwxz1 Please join us for an evening with **David Beabou**t to explore what success actually looks like in a cyber community! Expect a lively, interactive conversation grounded in real world experience, shared learning, and practical insights. With over 17 years in cybersecurity and national security, **David Beabout** brings a rare blend of operational depth and executive leadership, currently serving as **Deputy Global CISO at NTT Security Holding**s, with prior experience at **Deloitte, Booz Allen**, and **U.S. Army Counterintelligence.** He has advised C-Suite leaders and government partners to rearchitect threat intelligence across 900+ companies worldwide and actively gives back through board service with **NightDragon** and as an advisor to **The Cyber Guild.** Bring your ideas, your perspective, and your energy for an engaging February session! **Agenda** 5:30 Social hour and networking begins 6:00 Welcome 6:15 Conversation with **David Beabout** 7:00 Open Mic & Networking Continues 7:30 Adjourn

Please **[Click here](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/program-details/inner-engineering-in-person-cityprogram-the-highlands-at-germantown-maryland-us-feb-26-2026)**[ ](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/program-details/inner-engineering-total-cityprogram-unity-village---conference-center-missouri-us-may-09-2024)to learn more and register. **This is a paid program** Program Fee USD 375, Early Bird Pricing USD 330 (Expires on January 26th, 2026) Inner Engineering Total is offered as a 4-day in-person program designed by Sadhguru. The course combines the tools from Inner Engineering and the transmission of **Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya**, a 21-minute life-transforming practice. This format contains powerful meditative processes and practice support through personalized corrections. Additionally, a **free introductory talk** will be offered on **Thursday from 6:00pm to 7:00pm** (**[RSVP](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/event-details/21468)**) This session is open to all - feel free to bring your friends, family or anyone who may want to come with you. The program will resume after a short break, during which attendees will still have an opportunity to register. This program is offered through an Isha Yoga instructor trained by Sadhguru. No prerequisite or physical agility required. **Program Guidelines & session information** Programs are on Thursday and Friday evenings for 3 1/4 hours and continue all day on Saturday and Sunday. Vegetarian lunch is provided on Saturday; Vegetarian breakfast & lunch on Sunday. **Program Date and Timings:** Thursday, February 26th, 6:00 PM - 9:15 PM Friday, February 27th, 6:00 PM - 9:15 PM Saturday, February 28th, 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday, March 1st, 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM **Attendance to all sessions is mandatory.** **Open to ages 15 years and above.** **For ages 15 - 17, please [Register Here](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/minor-registration/8766)** Learn more about Inner Engineering on **[Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9-WwLCy8XY).**

**Agenda :** * 4.30 to 4.45 PM ET: Food and Networking * 4.45 to 5.30 PM ET: "Practical Applications of Model Context Protocol (MCP) (Feb 2026 Edition)" Hello Everyone! Please join us for our Feb 10th edition of the AI-ML MeetUp. **Please note this is an in-person meeting and light refreshments/food will be provided.** **Title:** Practical Applications of Model Context Protocol (MCP) (Feb 2026 Edition) **Description:** This session explores how the Model Context Protocol (MCP) can be used to connect AI models with real-world tools and data. Attendees will learn practical patterns for implementing MCP in production workflows and applications. Through examples and use cases, the session highlights how MCP enables more capable, context-aware AI systems. **Location:** The meeting will be hosted in the Applied Information Sciences ( AIS ) office in Reston, at 11440 Commerce Park Dr # 600 · Reston, VA. The location is also right off the Silver Line metro's Wiehle-Reston Metro Station. **Parking:** Parking is paid and can be validated at the AIS office reception. We will meet in Room Lake Anne. We hope to see you all there!!!!

**Title**: Powering AI Through Data Modernization: Modernizing ETL with Databricks & Unity Catalog In this session, we will discuss how enterprises are modernizing their data platforms by migrating from legacy ETL tools (such as Informatica and traditional data warehouses) to Databricks Lakehouse architecture, and how Unity Catalog enables enterprise-grade governance, security, and discoverability across data and AI assets. We will start with food and drinks at 6pm and then move into the presentation at 6:30pm. The session will cover: * Why traditional ETL platforms are becoming a bottleneck for scale, cost, and AI adoption * How Databricks changes the data engineering and analytics operating mode * The role of Unity Catalog in centralized governance * How this foundation enables AI and Gene.AI use cases on trusted data * Q&A Our speaker for this event is **Hirenkumar Dholariya**. Hirenkumar Dholariya is a Senior Data Engineering Architect with 18+ years of experience modernizing enterprise data platforms for global Fortune 500 organizations, delivering up to 40% system performance improvement and 20–35% infrastructure cost reduction through large-scale migration from legacy ETL platforms to cloud-native Lakehouse architectures. He specializes in Databricks-based data engineering, Unity Catalog–driven governance, and building scalable, secure, and real-time analytics platforms. He has led multiple enterprise-wide transformations from tools such as Informatica and traditional data warehouses to Databricks, establishing governed data foundations using Unity Catalog and enabling advanced analytics and AI use cases on top of trusted data platforms. His leadership focuses on architecting durable data platforms, enabling teams to move faster with confidence, and translating data and AI investments into measurable business outcomes. *

Join us in our English Conversation Practice group where we get to know one another, support each other and practice English! Whether you're a beginner or advanced speaker, we want to help support you wherever you are! What to expect: * introductions & ice breaker game * read current events article * discussion questions * announcements We will eat somewhere afterwards - hoping you can join!

The next NoVABeerSec event - "Informal Gathering of Security Minds Over Beer'' will be Wednesday, February 25th, 5:30PM til 7ish at Crooked Run Fermentation (22455 Davis Drive, Sterling, VA ). **BONUS** there is a Senor Ramon Taqueria as part of the brewery; so it will be a “Taco Wednesday” for everyone ;) **Venue for February:** Crooked Run Fermentation (https://crookedrunfermentation.com/sterling-virginia-2/) - Crooked Run Fermentation is a Virginia-based producer of contemporary and traditional beers, coolship sours, natural wines, ciders, and seltzers. Started in 2013 in Leesburg, Virginia, Crooked Run has developed a following for creative and nuanced beverages across a variety of styles, from lagers to IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, sours, and beyond beer. In 2017, we opened our main production facility in Sterling, Virginia, and will open a third location in northeast DC in 2022. Opened in 2017, the Sterling location features a bustling taproom, outdoor biergarten, 10 BBL brewhouse, and best of all, TACOS! Senor Ramon Taqueria offers a full menu of tacos, quesadillas, empanadas, and more. Come relax with 12 beers on tap, weekend live music, and some great food! If you're biking, we're right off the W&OD Trail. **Additional Info:** We are an inclusive group, so if we missed anyone please let us know or if you want to bring your significant other/spouse please do. Have a great week and see you later this month! Cheers, Rinaldi Rampen & Mike McCabe of @NoVABeerSec

**Inflow 6:00 PM - Talks Start \~6:30 PM** **Reston Community Center - 2310 Colts Neck Rd, Reston, VA 20191** NoVA Hackers is a group located in the Northern Virginia area and is made up of Information Security Professionals from all walks of life, from government and private sector, to students and beginners. The monthly meetings are held much like a mini-conference with 4-8 speakers and only a few basic but strict rules. Participation and Permission Active Participation is required for continued membership and is the only due required. Permission is required to be obtained from anyone providing information to the group from the person providing it to be made public by anyone other than the provider. Historically our talks generally run a bit late and we have a hard stop at 9:30pm for the room. If you want to socialize we recommend you arrive at 6 to meet and greet before the talks. Agendas and remote meeting option available after you join the group.