Recruiting & Hiring

OPA programmeert in 2026 rond een positieve toekomst waarin mens, natuur en techniek elkaar versterken: DARE. Voor OPA staat DARE voor Solar Punk, de hoopvolle tegenhanger van cyberpunk: een praktische ontwerpvisie die aansluit bij wie we zijn als platform dat ontmoeting, inspiratie en samenwerking organiseert. Tijdens de Arnhemse Uitnacht 2026 trappen we ons nieuwe jaarprogramma af met een nieuwe editie van **Bring Your Own Beamer** in de **Eusebiuskerk.** Dit jaar delen wij de Eusebius met Mode Partners 025. Naast toffe videokunst, gebeurt er dus ook van alles op gebied van mode. De afgelopen edities van BYOB trokken ruim 3000 bezoekers.

Join us for a Friday night improv drop-in workshop in English, taught by Ramona Harrison. Come play, connect, and enjoy a fun and supportive evening of improv theatre with Improv Utrecht. This workshop is open to everyone. You do not need any acting experience and you do not need to be fluent in English. Most of us are not. Every week there are several people joining for the very first time, alongside regulars who keep coming back. Expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where the focus is on play, listening, and discovering what happens when you create something together in the moment. What to expect A fun improv theatre workshop in English Clear and accessible exercises suitable for all levels Plenty of laughter and surprising moments A mixed group of first timers and returning players Usually there are around 12 to 22 participants in total. Practical information Doors open between 19:50 and 20:00. Please come in together with the group. The entrance is on the side of the building, via Troelstralaan. Workshop time is from 20:00 to 22:00. Full details are available at [https://bit.ly/iudropin](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fiudropin%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4korE1f-ihbxzlvU7CDNgvHQ-yG5IKRMQvmqJalcOEBBgl3RPil6CzkdyIOw_aem_KusWZKjOEN8aS6fJoGMLzg&h=AT2VgCnZs5EKD8cvTC_RX91PPg6ufo_xSoJrdzo91YXrt9zzv82s61mRBS30AsNZFKvuZMkqiNBt_U7fvqry4Js3o1gp5JfKkP7CSb5eaVLLtZE-BOZ2KtA4tzt3MBfiLPrGy7PCMlfywzhmyQg&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT12ZqE3c_M2jqZJHFRHJAetgqZsZBSl5Zfz8BMHHMc5SeT4IyK3rxgnl3bECu2Abnvq6acCEB9RP-rDz4j__fSHYNjz86asq0kq_TrQxtchEhUCMgXIw8MKeA9UBQbxqUdmquRPJcqNbczYjx2VZQDJDPr_4I2NtcU). After the workshop, many people head to the Irish pub O’Leary’s nearby to have a drink and chat, whether alcoholic or not. How to sign up Please mark yourself as attending via [https://bit.ly/iudropin](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fiudropin%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5Juhg-LlTX_Pv-oCLa9l6mz3-sjR058yQjL5dmkyHt5ZMRF_ZYq4P8jMLkZw_aem_iV1swMbNG534_Gd9v33nkA&h=AT2VgCnZs5EKD8cvTC_RX91PPg6ufo_xSoJrdzo91YXrt9zzv82s61mRBS30AsNZFKvuZMkqiNBt_U7fvqry4Js3o1gp5JfKkP7CSb5eaVLLtZE-BOZ2KtA4tzt3MBfiLPrGy7PCMlfywzhmyQg&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT12ZqE3c_M2jqZJHFRHJAetgqZsZBSl5Zfz8BMHHMc5SeT4IyK3rxgnl3bECu2Abnvq6acCEB9RP-rDz4j__fSHYNjz86asq0kq_TrQxtchEhUCMgXIw8MKeA9UBQbxqUdmquRPJcqNbczYjx2VZQDJDPr_4I2NtcU). If you can no longer attend, remember to remove your signup so someone else can take your place. Please send your contact details to Marieke at info@theatersportworkshops.nl so we can reach you if there are any changes. Price Suggested donation €10 to €20, payable in cash or via Tikkie. If you are not able to pay much, you are still very welcome. Pay what you can or what you felt the workshop was worth. Contributions help cover the room and the professional teachers. Curious to learn more You can find information about all Improv Utrecht courses and events at [https://www.improvutrecht.nl](https://www.improvutrecht.nl/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7b4VfXuRg-30CEtux6D5Va2cgPVFVxQpJmihr-gQuY6qjBE8HsqS0YioUA3A_aem_zmLVMLIb2CmlqbjiD9XaNA) and [https://improv-utrecht.weticket.com](https://improv-utrecht.weticket.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6ek4xArOwHxw7gGQ33mNuxW-3IO8-sbU2PciEATqoCYv-CEZTCv0YOreOxrQ_aem_hF6lTvheMNzHhbec08r-JA) Follow Improv Utrecht Meetup [https://www.meetup.com/utrecht-improv-theater](https://www.meetup.com/utrecht-improv-theater?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5i2cvWeBl4kMJ62gIX2StRTgED-JNSG7vyCNGqXkarNeku78KAmQZj92GMYA_aem_JGdAolousVglw6z35QhgvQ) Instagram @improvutrecht Facebook ImprovUtrecht

Ben jij gefascineerd door de wereld van hacking en cybersecurity? Goed nieuws! Wat ooit een exclusieve serie workshops was voor studenten van NOVI, is nu toegankelijk voor iedereen met een passie voor hacking. 🚀 **Hack Friday** is jouw wekelijkse dosis cybersecurity praktijk. Elke vrijdagochtend duiken we samen in de diepe, duistere wereld van een nieuwe machine of challenge, onder de deskundige begeleiding van een van de cybersecurity experts van NOVI. Het is de perfecte manier om je skills te testen, te verbeteren en iets nieuws te leren in een vriendelijke en ondersteunende omgeving. 🛠️💻 ### Wat heb je nodig? * **Een werkende Kali Linux installatie**: Zorg dat je klaar bent om de uitdaging aan te gaan met je eigen Kali Linux setup. * **Een nieuwsgierige geest**: Heb je zin om te leren en uitgedaagd te worden? Dan pas je perfect in onze Hack Friday! ### Waarom meedoen? * **Leer van de besten**: Onze cybersecurity experts staan klaar om hun kennis te delen en je door de challenges te begeleiden. * **Wekelijkse uitdagingen**: Elke week bieden we een nieuwe machine of challenge aan, zodat je je vaardigheden kunt blijven ontwikkelen. * **Ontmoet gelijkgestemden**: Sluit je aan bij een community van enthousiaste hackers en cybersecurity professionals. ### Details: * **Wanneer**: Elke vrijdagochtend * **Waar**: op locatie in Utrecht * **Voor wie**: Iedereen met een interesse in hacking en cybersecurity, van beginners tot gevorderden. Ben je klaar om je hacking skills naar een hoger niveau te tillen en deel uit te maken van onze groeiende community? Sluit je dan aan bij Hack Friday en daag jezelf elke week uit met nieuwe en spannende cybersecurity avonturen! 🌟🔒 Registreer nu en laat zien wat je in huis hebt! Wij kunnen niet wachten om je te ontmoeten.

ENGLISH Metalheads unite! Friday 30th of January it's time for a special METALCAFE edition at Café Dudok 💥 We'll be kicking off the heavy metal new year together with Metalfrom.nl. Together we'll celebrate the metal scene and the new year! METALCAFE and Metalfrom.nl work tirelessly for the dutch metal scene, so this combination promises to be an extra fun edition! DJ Mad Butcher and DJ Mantis will play your metal requests from 20:00 till 01:30 while you enjoy a nice drink and/or bite from the kitchen. We'll have delicious Dimmu Burgers, Beelzeballs, Satan's Sticks, and Satan's Guts for you to feast on 🍔🥩🤤 So come party with us! Free entrance. 🤘🏼😈🤘🏼 NEDERLANDS Metalheads unite! Vrijdag 30 januari is het tijd voor een speciale METALCAFE editie bij Café Dudok!💥 We trappen het heavy metal nieuwe jaar af samen met Metalfrom.nl. Samen vieren we de metal scene en het nieuwe jaar! METALCAFE en Metalfrom.nl zetten zich keihard in voor de Nederlandse metal scene, dus deze combinatie belooft het een extra gezellige editie te maken! DJ Mad Butcher en DJ Mantis draaien van 20:00 tot 01:30 jullie metal requests terwijl je geniet van een lekker drankje en/of hapje uit de keuken. We hebben heerlijke Dimmu Burgers, Beëlzeballen, Satan's Stengels en Satan's Ingewanden om van te smullen voor jullie 🍔🥩🤤 Dus kom met ons feesten! 🤘🏼😈🤘🏼 Gratis entree.

English - see at the end. Geachte **mede-organisator van de toekomst**, Verplaatst van 9 januari In onze voortdurend streven om faciliteren te ondersteunen, nodigen IAF-Netherlands en LEF Future Center je uit om de toekomst te faciliteren - in het LEF Future Center Nieuwe technologieën, veranderende sociale dynamiek en wereldwijde uitdagingen transformeren de manier waarop mensen samenwerken, leren en samen beslissen. "Meestribbelen", las ik laatst. Hebben jullie dat ook, dat een opdrachtgever eigenlijk niet wil innoveren; of dat de deelnemers doen alsof ze meedoen? Wanneer we besluiten op basis van het verleden, komen we nooit aan in een toekomst die anders is dan het verleden Faciliteren van innovaties houdt in de moed hebben, om iets anders te doen. Eigenlijk tegen beter weten in. In deze bijeenkomst, kan jij je daarop voorbereiden. Ons doel in deze bijeenkomst is om te onderzoeken wat facilitering zou kunnen worden in dit evoluerende landschap: het ontwerpen van sessies, onze competenties, leren van de toekomst zoals die zich voordoet. Samen zullen we experimenteren, reflecteren en mogelijkheden cocreëren voor de volgende generatie van facilitatoren, katalysatoren en procesbegeleiders. AGENDA 13.00 Ontvangst 13.30 Opening Check-in - door een deelnemer Waar staan we nu? De Toekomst Achteraf - daar komen we waar? Naar de he(me)l? 15.00 Pauze De Toekomst Achteraf (vervolg) - drie paden en hun keuze momenten Wat ga je de volgende keer (anders) doen? 16.30 Check-out en afsluiting Een vrijwillige bijdrage aan de IAF-Netherlands wordt op prijs gesteld. LET OP: registreer je rechtsstreeks bij mij, door me te mailen via janlelie@wxs.nl of via [iaf-netherlands@kpnmail.nl](mailto:iaf-netherlands@kpnmail.nl) Om deel te nemen hebben we tijdig - voor 23 januari- je naam en e-mail adres nodig. MeetUp geeft die ook niet meer door :-(. Stuur je e-mail adres naar iaf-netherlands@kpnmail.nl . Wanneer je geen Rijksmedewerker bent, dien je je bij aankomst te identificeren. We kijken uit naar jullie deelname, Jan Lelie CPF\|M \(2020\) interim voorzitter IAF-Netherlands Dear co-organiser of the future, In our continuing effort to support facilitation IAF-Netherlands and LEF Future Center invites you to *facilitate the future* — at the LEF Future Center New technologies, shifting social dynamics, and global challenges are transforming how people work, learn, and decide together. "Prostructing" (obstructing through co-operating) I read the other day. Do you also have that, that a client does not really want to innovate; or that the participants pretend to participate? When we decide based on the past, we never arrive in a future that is different from the past Facilitating innovations in the courage to do something else. Actually against better knowing in. In this meeting, you can prepare for it. Our purpose in this meeting is to explore what facilitation might become in this evolving landscape: designing sessions, our competencies, learning from the future as it emerges. Together, we will experiment, reflect, and co-create possibilities for the next generation of facilitation. AGENDA 13.00 Reception 13.30 Opening Check-in - by a participant The Future Afterwards - where do we get there; "This could be heaven or this could be hell?" 15.00 Pause The Future Afterwards (continued) - three paths and their choices What will you do next time (differently)? 16.30 Check-out and closure A voluntary contribution to the IAF-Netherlands is appreciated. Note: register directly with me, by emailing me via janlelie@wxs.nl or via iaf-netherlands@kpnmail.nl To participate we need your name and e-mail address in good time - before 23 th of January. MeetUp doesn't pass it on anymore :-(. Send your e-mail address to iaf-netherlands@kpnmail.nl . If you are not a Government employee, you must identify yourself on arrival. We look forward to your participation, Jan Lelie CPF\|M \(2020\) Interim Chair IAF-Netherlands

Exclusive evening at Museum Catharijneconvent! On Friday, January 30th, they'll open their doors after closing time for a special evening full of art, stories, and inspiration. For VIP members only ✨ (You can join me). Visit the beautiful exhibition "In the Name of Love" and enjoy a warm welcome, an inspiring program, and a relaxed atmosphere during drinks. - Discover the many faces of love in a colorful exhibition - Enjoy a unique evening program - Be surprised during a cozy drinks reception - Museum Catharijneconvent, Utrecht - Limited number of tickets: while supplies last! I have tickets for €5,- each!

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **This is a curated, small-group meetup make new friends in Utrecht.** Each meetup brings together 4–6 like-minded people for casual conversations over coffee. We use the Groupvibe platform to organize and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com](https://groupvibe.com) Once you register, and **buy a ticket or become a Groupvibe member**, we’ll share the exact location and match you with your group. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier \* Matching helps avoid awkward dynamics **Note:** RSVPs here on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. This meetup is organized by **Groupvibe**, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

Hi everyone! For those who want to enjoy nature, trips/excursions, and generally a more outdoors setting, let’s get together for a hiking excursion! The plan is to meet at Utrecht Central (and/or a train station that is closest to our hiking area), and then we begin our hiking route. For first-timers (or as a helpful reminder 😉), I recommend that you wear a comfy outfit & shoes and bring water & a snack or two. At some point during the excursion, we can do a break in-between to rest and eat/drink for a while. Depending on the time & weather, and whether people are up for it, there’s always the possibility of follow-up drinks later that day. More info about the route/location: https://www.komoot.com/smarttour/1273448003?ref=atd The route is 16ish km long along with a loop around Lage Vuursche area. It starts & finishes (loop route) at Den Dolder We don't have info if dogs are allowed on this route. Usually they are in the area but this is the 1st time using this route as a group. More tips on finding the group along with helpful contact info with the host will follow in the comments the day before the meetup. To those interested, hope to see you there! 😄 In case of bad (NL) weather, the event might be moved to another day.

Join us for a night of fun and games at our local community center! What to Expect: * Free entrance for everyone! * Bring your favorite games * Meet new friends and gaming enthusiasts * A night of exciting challenges and friendly competition * Bring your own snacks and refreshments Whether you're a board game aficionado or a video game guru, this event is for you. Don't miss the chance to connect with fellow gamers in our community! This event is part of an ongoing series organized through our Discord server [[discord.gg/utrecht](http://discord.gg/utrecht)], where we've had the pleasure of hosting quite a couple of gatherings in the past. Whether you're a seasoned regular at our events or someone new to the scene, we're excited to welcome you.

We’re heading into the south eastern Veluwe for a stunning scenic route that stays wonderfully quiet and almost deserted for a big part of the way, before building up to a truly spectacular grand finale! After around 6 km we reach the mysterious “Altar of the Loenermark” (Altaar van de Loenermark). I have no idea what it is, so we’ll discover it together. From there we continue through the beautiful heather and forest landscapes of Loenermark, one of those places where the Veluwe feels wide, wild, and open. Next we pass one of the quirkiest monuments in the Netherlands: the Ijkbasis Loenermark 1957–2007, a tribute to the calibration of measurement instruments from the past. The calibration itself might not sound exciting, but the location absolutely is, right in the middle of wide open heather, with big skies and that endless Veluwe feeling. It also marks about 11 km into the hike, a perfect spot to take our lunch break. After lunch we walk straight through the iconic National Park Veluwezoom, famous for its rolling grasslands and its fluffy semi wild cows. To finish in style, we end at Paviljoen De Posbank for a well earned snack or drink with a view over what many call the most spectacular heather of the Netherlands, complete with rolling hills. From there we head down towards Rheden, where you can easily catch the train or bus home. This is not a loop hike! **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 10h at busstop Loenen, Leeuwenbergweg. https://maps.app.goo.gl/LC3nNJQo57B5NnSy8 We are leaving a bit earlier otherwise we will find Paviljoen Posbank closed, which would be very sad. ⏰ We **start walking a few minutes after meeting up** — we don’t wait for latecomers, as the forest calls and daylight is short this time of year. **🚗 Coming by car?** This is not a loop hike. If you park in Loenen, you’ll need to make your own way back from Rheden afterwards. **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After **11 km**: Lunch break at **Ijkbasis Loenermark** (bring your packed lunch, this spot is truly in the middle of nowhere) **20 min** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/S5vAEpadAJs93ZrC7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/S5vAEpadAJs93ZrC7) After **19 km**: Snack or drink at **Paviljoen De Posbank** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wowuqj3sRY5hcid37](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wowuqj3sRY5hcid37) **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. https://tikkie.me/pay/59muhp2djpv45gc6hgh6 **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 23 January at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks, lunch, and water/ or hot thee/ coffee. * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

**Online 1-hour women’s circle** ✨ Offered on a donation basis, give what feels right for you. This is a gentle online gathering for women to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and share space with others in a supportive and non-judgmental way. On Sunday evening, we come together to soften the transition into a new week, creating a moment to pause, reflect, and be present. During this 1-hour session, we will move through: * a guided meditation to arrive and settle into the body * a journaling practice to connect with what is alive within you * a sharing circle, where you are welcome to speak or simply listen No previous experience with meditation, journaling, or sharing circles is needed. You are welcome exactly as you are. This is a space where every question, every feeling, and every story is met with care — a space to be witnessed, and to witness other women, with openness, respect, and presence. You can join from the comfort of your home and participate in the way that feels right for you. 🕊 Please have a notebook and pen nearby, and find a quiet, comfortable space where you can be undisturbed for the hour. ✨ Reminder: This event runs on a **donation basis**, so please give what feels right for you.

Thanks to everyone who contributed during our previous two co-creation sessions on the **"Wellbeing Heroes: End Game"** project. We've established a clear vision, identified core themes (Polycrisis, healing, scarcity, gift economy), and defined our target audience as **17-65 old**. We are now ready to move into the exciting **Prototyping & Playtesting** stage in our third session! **You do not need to have attended the previous events! Feel free to check previous events for more information about the game background!** The goal of this in-person session is to **try out and help shape the two primary game concepts** we've been developing: * **Concept 1: Multiple Spaceships** * A strategic board game where each player captains a spaceship/group with unequal resources and abilities, requiring difficult collaboration to survive an intensifying crisis. (Prototype led by Daan Heemskerk) * **Concept 2: Single-Ship Roleplay Crew** * A collaborative table top role-playing experience where players take on different roles within a single ship's crew (e.g., captain, food producer), focusing on internal power dynamics, resource administration, and moral reflection. (Prototype led by Mahdi Abdelwahab) We need your hands-on participation to test the mechanics and help us refine the design before the final version. **Key Session Details:** * **Activity:** Eating together and Testing two game prototypes. * **Target Group:** 17+ * **Group Size:** Ideal for 5–7 per prototype. * **Duration:** Estimated 4 hours, including drinks and eating. * **When:** 30th of January 2026, at 18h. * **Location:** Utrecht, Rosa Buurtcentrum, Lombok We look forward to prototyping and shaping the **"Wellbeing Heroes: End Game"** with you!

**People Analytics 101: Making Sense of Compensation Data** Compensation data is one of the most widely used and widely misunderstood forms of people analytics. The session will cover where compensation data comes from, including market pricing data, internal payroll data, and benchmarking sources, and how companies think about structuring and analyzing that information. We will explore how compensation data is leveraged to set salary ranges, manage internal equity, support hiring and retention, and align pay with business strategy. A portion of the session will address common data challenges and limitations, such as market noise, inconsistent job matching, and incomplete datasets, while keeping the primary focus on practical use rather than technical depth. The session will also look ahead at where the space is going, including the growing impact of pay transparency laws, expanding pay equity requirements, and emerging regulations in the US and Europe that require organizations to report on gender and pay gaps. The goal is to give attendees a clear mental model for how compensation analytics works today and why getting it right is becoming increasingly critical. (note: we are back at Rev1 this month!) **About Our Speaker** [Alex Moore](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexscottmoore/) is the founder of [Moore Cooperative](https://moorecooperative.com/), where he advises organizations on compensation strategy, pay equity, and people analytics. His work focuses on helping organizations like the Ohio Supreme Court design, analyze, and communicate compensation systems that are data-informed, defensible, and aligned with organizational goals. Alex lives in Granville, Ohio and has three little kiddos. More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

**[There will be one surprise activity at this event - I will update the description as I am allowed]** Let's get together and **WORKSHOP** about Job Searching and Career Management. Here are some of the content areas we can cover - expect this to change. * Using AI effectively (search, resume). * Job Search Tooling (i.e. TopResume, Job-Squid). * Resume / LinkedIn Review * Practice Interview * Practice Elevator Pitch Food and drinks will be available. **FREE PARKING:** 6725 Longshore Street, Dublin, OH 43017

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

The February Ohio North Database Training user group meeting will be held on **February 3rd, 2025 at 5:00PM**. This will be a **HYBRID** event and we will be joined in person by **David Pickering**. You're welcome to come meet in-person at our meeting location, the offices of Improving at **[6000 Freedom Square Dr,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Unit 110,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Independence, OH 44131](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** [Teams Link ](https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/27861114692350?p=lHdrSV1OOELhLnCiAg)if anyone needs it after RSVP-ing for in person. If you would like to subscribe to our email list outside of Meetup, we have changed platforms recently and you will need to register [here in Kit ](https://ohio-north-data-training.kit.com/b8f036f615)instead to receive emails. Agenda: **5:00 PM EST**: Online and in-person meeting begins with a social hour. This is an unstructured hour where you can join us to catch up and meet other group members before the session starts. There will be food brought in for in-person attendees. **6:00 PM EST**: Updates and announcements, followed by our feature presentation. See below for presentation details. **7:30 PM EST**: Optionally after the main presentations, the in-person crowd may go out for snacks and drinks at a local establishment. We hope to see you there! Session Abstract **No Map Required: Geospatial Analytics Directly in Your Data Warehouse** Think geospatial analysis requires specialized GIS software? Think again. This session introduces you to shapefiles and spatial operations right inside your database—no mapping application required. We'll demystify shapefiles (what they are, how they work, and where to get them) and show you how nearly every modern database —from DuckDB to Snowflake, supports spatial operations. You'll see practical demos covering spatial joins, distance calculations, and how to determine if two shapes interact with each other. Whether you're a data engineer optimizing delivery routes, an analyst aggregating metrics by geography, or a BI developer building location-aware dashboards, this session will show you how to unlock powerful spatial capabilities already built into your database stack—no specialized tools required. \*Please note, that we will be using Microsoft Teams for the online portion of this meeting. You may want to join a few minutes early to ensure you do not have any issues. If you are attending in person, there are large TVs at the office, and you do not need to bring a laptop or use Teams.

**Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) TEAMS UP with The Central Ohio GameDev Group (COGG) for the 2026 Global Game Jam (GGJ)!!!** **GGJ SITE** [https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026](https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026) **REGISTRATION** Fill out this form >>> [https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7) <<< *PLEASE NOTE* \- We have limited capacity so us knowing In\-Person participation early on is critical for us to best accommodate everyone interested in jammin' \- We will also be providing Online teams & support via our COGG Discord bot [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/)! **Registering for this MEETUP event DOES NOT gain you access to the main Global Game Jam event. Please register officially [here](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7).** Every year the game department at CCAD hosts students (and this year local game group COGG!!) in the exciting challenge of developing a theme inspired title over the course of a weekend. The Global Game Jam is a cherished tradition, be it in-person or virtually, we are here for you! This is an excellent opportunity to connect with your peers, make new friends, network with local game makers and try your hand at low stakes game development! Want to know all the details? [Check out the official GGJ site](https://globalgamejam.org/faq) and be sure to use your existing account or create a new jammer [account](https://globalgamejam.org/user/register). \-\-\-\-\- **EVENT DETAILS** Listings subject to change and will be updated so check in periodically! An **[Event Details doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing)** can be read for all your info! **Building Hours + Security** available throughout the event **Parking:** See [parking spots highlighted in blue](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view). (see new as of last year) *All Locations:* **DSB 121**, The Game Lounge: informal space for people to decompress. Private bathrooms **DSB126**, Small Classroom / Break-out room **DSB127**, (large multi-use space, tables, projector, couches, bistro tables/chairs, etc) **DSB136**, Flex Space (meals / food, access to refrigerator / microwave, drop-power and tables/chairs). **DSB142**, Presentation room **DSB146**, Cintiq Laptop Docking Lab **VENUE TIME & SPACE** **Friday** 5:00pm - 12am Event launch - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/pV40YzllqoY?feature=share) **Saturday** 7am - 12am **Sunday** 7am - 7:00pm Event closing - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream Ending Ceremony @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/stxxCCPzy2A?feature=share) **MISC. RESOURCES** **Wifi:** We will have access to the GUEST network \- To be provided for login to participants at the event Friday Jan 30th **Map** [CCAD Map](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view?usp=sharing) **Wavier** [Sign and Print or Email to info@thecogg.com](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KaKoz5sK5h1PdZ2rGNOCntyUxoXcGLXL/view) **Schedule** [Updated Regularly](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EONsxtr3S-bRvIp_s12os-JA-M7uEW207bi9MVfrvbM/edit?usp=sharing) **Event Details** [All in one spot for all event details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing) **SPONSORS** Global Game Jam ([GGJ](https://globalgamejam.org/)) Columbus College of Art and Design ([CCAD](https://www.ccad.edu/)) The Central Ohio GameDev Group ([COGG](https://thecogg.com/)) [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/) \- Discord game jam bot [GDEX](https://www.thegdex.com/)/[Multivarious](https://www.multivarious.com/) \- Midwest Premiere Gaming Expo

Join us for a special afternoon celebrating books, conversation, and community. **Who:** Jessica Strawser in conversation with Thirti Umrigar **When:** Sunday\, February 1 \| **2:00 p.m.** **Where:** Auditorium, Main Library 96 S. Grant Ave. **Event Schedule** **1:00 p.m.** – Library doors open & book sale begins (hosted by Prologue Bookshop) **2:00 p.m.** – Jessica Strawser in conversation with Thirti Umrigar **2:45 p.m.** – Audience Q&A **3:00 p.m.** – Book sale & author signing Come early to check out the books, settle in for the author talk, and enjoy a laid-back afternoon with fellow book lovers. We’d love to see you there!

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!