Free Software and Hardware

**Location**: Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (Virginia) Conference Room A game development **Working Session** involves 3 key parts: 1. Tell people what you're going to do 2. Actually do stuff 3. Show people what you did That's what we'll be doing for this meeting. We'll briefly tell each other what we're going to do, then work on our projects, then at around 5:30 wrap up to show each other what we did and chat for a bit. You don't have to stay the whole time, so feel free to drop in and out as you have time. All game development skill levels welcome. Whether you're bringing a game you're trying to ship in a month, or you're just planning on following some tutorials or trying out a new tool to improve your skills, use this time to make progress. Working sessions also train you to think about the scope of your work: pick a chunk of work that you can complete in the time that we have. That way you can end the working session with a feeling of accomplishment! **What to bring**: Laptop, Charger, maybe a power strip if you have one handy, any other game development tools you need. Try to download any software you need before the working session. There is Wifi at this location, but it may be slow if you have to download any large files.

Socrates Café meets twice a month. Though this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, morality, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers. It is not as such to learn a language. Beginners, if you want to learn a language, reach out to us ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING*** [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k)

We’ll sample the espresso at this Fairfax cafe next. There are some unique offerings on the menu, so let’s get together and compare notes. Enjoy your favorite drink or try something new. I love to start my weekends off this way. Come join us. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

*Must register through* [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/constellations-offline-club-conversation-creativity-cocktails-tickets-1991207676763?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=0bb2e26d7bc403094dcecba8b683cfcd4baf10035c7fe2325f06bfc02017275ce21d78241950c92662868dbf4f13c16fed972fb6a441cd8768df67c9868ba2cf369533064862834fc264b135d8cd) *.* *Free for Constellations Members.* *Small donation for supplies asked for non-members.* Take a break from your screens and join us for an afternoon of conversation, creativity, and connection at Upside on Moore food hall in Arlington, Virginia. We'll have adult coloring sheets, cards, and simple games available. Feel free to bring a craft project — sketching, knitting, crocheting, or anything portable — or a light, easy-to-learn board game to share. You're also welcome to simply grab a drink or dinner and enjoy the conversation without engaging in any activities. Food, coffee, cocktails, and more are available from the many vendors at Upside on Moore food hall. Our only request: **keep phones tucked away whenever possible.** This is a chance to be present, meet new people, and enjoy some genuine offline connection. We'll post our exact location around 5pm the day of the event, but we typically gather in the quieter seating area toward the back, past Ghostburger. *Must register through* [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/constellations-offline-club-conversation-creativity-cocktails-tickets-1991207676763?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=0bb2e26d7bc403094dcecba8b683cfcd4baf10035c7fe2325f06bfc02017275ce21d78241950c92662868dbf4f13c16fed972fb6a441cd8768df67c9868ba2cf369533064862834fc264b135d8cd) *.* *Free for Constellations Members.* *Small donation for supplies asked for non-members.*

Date: June 7 2026 Sunday 10:00 am - Noon EDT Full title: Machine Learning for Reliable Quantum Computing: An Algorithm–Hardware Co-Design Perspective Summary: Reliable quantum computing requires co-design across the full stack, including algorithm structure, compilation, and execution, rather than isolated optimization of any single layer. This talk presents a unified framework in which these layers are jointly optimized under realistic hardware constraints. Structure-aware compilation exploits algorithmic interaction graphs to reduce circuit depth; joint optimization across mapping, term ordering, and algorithm parameters yields significantly improved success probability; and execution-layer analysis reveals that error mitigation effectiveness depends critically on circuit symmetry and native gate choice. While demonstrated on superconducting quantum processors, the underlying co-design principles are potentially transferable across architectures. Building on this foundation, the talk highlights machine learning as the key enabler for closing the feedback loop: data-efficient, parameterized noise models learned directly from workload execution data achieve substantially improved predictive fidelity over vendor models without the overhead of dedicated characterization. These insights situate the co-design perspective within the emerging framework of quantum deep learning. In this broader setting, the talk also presents an operational definition, a unifying taxonomy, and a benchmarking protocol grounded in explicit resource contracts. Speaker: Dr. Yanjun Ji has an interdisciplinary research background in Physics and Computer Science. In 2020, she completed my Master's degree in Theoretical Physics at Saarland University. In 2024, she earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Stuttgart. She is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Forschungszentrum Jülich. She is committed to interdisciplinary research at the cutting-edge convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Her research encompasses both foundational theoretical investigations and the development of practical applications, aiming to serve society and benefit humanity. Moderators: Dr. Pawel Gora, CEO of Quantum AI Foundation [Quantum AI Foundation](https://www.qaif.org/ "https://www.qaif.org/") Dr. Sebastian Zajac, member of QPoland [QPoland - QWorld](https://qworld.net/qpoland/ "https://qworld.net/qpoland/")

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

DC Code and Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. It's community-led and community-run by devs, for devs. People of all skill levels attend. Whether you’re dev-curious, aspiring, or a professional developer, we’d love to have you! Come chat or learn to code on a Sunday afternoon with coffee and cool-inclusive people. Bring your laptop! We typically meet every month on the weekend. **Join our online community!** For all things Tech in DC and to get latest updates and tech events from the DMV area, join the [DCTech Slack](https://dctech.chat/). All DC Code & Coffee announcements are in the #dccodecoffee channel **How it works** Near the beginning of the event, we do an introduction circle. You say your name, what you can help others with, and what you would like help with. You can also share job opportunities. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized.

Join local video game developers, artists, musicians and writers to talk about the art and science of game development. Bring a device and demo your game, talk shop, find like minded folks to join forces with, have a snack or a beverage among new friends. We are an informal meetup where we share what we've been working on and socialize. Come for all or just a bit of the time!

What would it mean to take the possibility of machine consciousness seriously? To approach it as a question that may be studied with rigor? At this DC Digital Minds gathering, group organizer **Jessie Mannisto** will report back from the **Founding Assembly for Machine Consciousness Research** in Berkeley, CA, where researchers and thinkers are working to develop the machine consciousness hypothesis into something more scientifically useful. We’ll talk about what kinds of evidence might support hypotheses of machine conscience or sentience, what concepts researchers are using, where the major uncertainties are, and why these questions may have ethical, social, and policy implications as AI systems become more capable and socially present. This will be a casual conversation with a little structure: Jessie will give a short report-back from the conference, followed by open discussion. No technical background required -- just curiosity, good faith, and a willingness to think carefully about a strange and important frontier. Optional Pre-Read: [The Machine Consciousness Hypothesis](https://cimc.ai/cimcHypothesis.pdf)

Let's get our 80s nerd on, BY THE POWER OF GREYSKULL!!!

Let’s talk about how you use AI, what you love and hate about it, learn from others and connect with your tribe!

Calling all foodies and gardening enthusiasts! Join us for an exclusive **Sip and Learn** event where you'll get to taste fresh, live herbs while learning how to grow your own food indoors year-round. 🌱 **Clift** will demonstrate how easy it is to grow more than **75 pounds of food** every year using **LED grow lights**—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, this event will show you how you can maximize small areas to grow delicious, pesticide-free produce. ### **What to Expect**: * **Live Herb Tasting**: Sample fresh herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and discover their flavorful uses in your favorite dishes or drinks. * **Grow 75+ Pounds of Food**: Learn how you can grow your own fresh food year-round indoors with minimal setup. * **Indoor Gardening Benefits**: From saving on grocery bills to having pesticide-free herbs and vegetables at your fingertips, we’ll cover the perks of indoor gardening. ### **Why Attend?** * **Perfect for small spaces**—no backyard needed! * Gain expert tips on indoor gardening and sustainable food production. * A fun, engaging way to explore the benefits of fresh herbs and veggies for your meals. * Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about urban farming and sustainability. **How to Join**: Simply RSVP here to secure your spot! Bring your favorite drink or meal to pair with our live herbs. 🌿 Don’t miss out on this chance to sip, taste, and learn! Visit **[indoorgardenmarket.com](https://iwantagreenthumb.com)** to learn more, and RSVP now for a fun afternoon of herbs, learning, and indoor gardening! Thank you, Clift --- Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com

**The Neural Revolution Is Happening Right Now — Are You Plugged In?** Imagine typing with your thoughts. Steering a robotic limb with a neural signal. Lifting depression by stimulating a single brain circuit. Loading a skill straight into memory. This isn't science fiction. It's happening in labs, clinics, and startups around the world — and the DC region, home to NIH, the BRAIN Initiative, and DARPA's neural-interface programs, is one of the places it's being funded and built. **This Event Is for You If…** * ✅ You're a **technologist** curious about the computing paradigm beyond screens and keyboards * ✅ You work in **healthcare** and want to see how neural interfaces will reshape patient care * ✅ You're an **entrepreneur** hunting the next real opportunity in deep tech * ✅ You're a **researcher** looking to plug into the broader BCI ecosystem * ✅ You're simply **fascinated** by where neuroscience and technology collide * ✅ You **missed our last meetup** and want to reconnect with the community **Why That List Makes Us Unique in DC** Read it again. A technologist, a clinician, a founder, a researcher, and the merely curious — in the same room, on the same afternoon. That mix is the whole point, and it's what no other event in the region offers. Neuroscience conferences are built for neuroscientists. AI meetups are built for engineers. Healthcare summits are built for clinicians. Each one serves a single silo. Brain computing doesn't live in any one of those silos — it lives in the overlap. So we built the one community in DC dedicated to that overlap: a place where the person decoding neural signals can talk to the person who'll commercialize the device, who can talk to the clinician who'll put it in front of a patient. **What You'll Walk Away With** This isn't just another tech meetup. Because of who's in the room, you get: * **Frontline insight** from people actively decoding neural signals * **Direct access** to the scientists, engineers, and founders pushing BCI forward — not a panel behind a rope line * **Hands-on work** with real neural data and BCI systems * **Career connections** in one of the fastest-growing fields in tech * **First looks** at breakthrough research before it reaches mainstream media **The Stakes Are Real** We're at an inflection point. The next decade decides whether brain-computer interfaces *expand* human potential or *deepen* inequality — whether they're built in the open or behind closed doors, whether the benefits are shared or hoarded. Your voice, your expertise, your perspective shapes which future we get. **Join the Minds Shaping Tomorrow** This is your entry point into the neural-interface revolution — your chance to stand alongside the researchers reading neural code, the engineers building the interfaces, the clinicians treating patients, and the founders bringing it all to market. **Saturday, June 13 · 12:00–3:00 PM** isn't just a meetup. It's the one place in DC where all of those people come together around brain computing. **Come curious. Leave connected. Return transformed.** Because the future of human-computer interaction isn't happening *to* you — it's happening *with* you.

Please RSVP on luma: [http://luma.com/dc2-nwz3](http://luma.com/dc2-nwz3) A meetup for software engineers and IT professionals who use AI tools in their craft. ​**agentic engineering** describes the practice of developing software with the assistance of coding agents. What are **coding agents**? They're agents that can write and execute code. Popular examples include [Claude Code](https://code.claude.com/?utm_source=luma), [OpenAI Codex](https://openai.com/codex/?utm_source=luma), [Gemini CLI](https://geminicli.com/?utm_source=luma), and [https://kilo.ai/](https://kilo.ai/?utm_source=luma) If you build software and want to learn and share effective practices for using agents to build real software, this is the meetup for you. Agenda: 6-6:30pm: Food and networking 6:30pm - Introductions 6:45pm - Agentic Engineering Demo /Tips 7:00pm - Agentic Software Engineering Failures 7:15pm - Presentation and interactive survey on Agentic Engineering 8:00pm - end

VIRTUAL PRESENTER. NOTE SPECIAL DATE: 2ND TUESDAY IN THE MONTH .NET 10 is here alongside a practically rewritten Visual Studio 2026. Learn about the new C# 14 features, VS2026 niceties, and more!

Want to mess with some electronics? Or perhaps contribute to HacDC's main group project? HacDC's latest event brings hardware projects to the community. We will focus primarily on the main project (Space Blimp!) but please feel free to bring some of your own projects to show off and work on!

For decades, application security has been built around a simple assumption: humans are the primary producers of software. We train developers, review their pull requests, model threats in design meetings, and build controls around human decision-making. That assumption is rapidly breaking down. As AI coding assistants evolve into autonomous software agents, organizations will gain access to an effectively unlimited engineering workforce capable of producing software at a speed no human team can match. The pressure to adopt these systems will be driven not by curiosity, but by competition. Companies that successfully harness agentic development will ship faster, iterate faster, and potentially outpace those that do not. This shift forces a fundamental rethinking of application security. The future of AppSec is not securing developers—it is governing an agentic workforce. Threat modeling, code review, security testing, and change management will not disappear, but they will need to operate at machine speed and increasingly be performed by systems rather than people. In this talk, Ken Johnson, CTO of DryRun Security, explores what the next decade of application security may look like, the assumptions that will no longer hold, and why security professionals must understand these systems deeply if they hope to influence the future rather than react to it.

**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.