Workforce Development

Adopting GitHub in an enterprise environment can significantly enhance collaboration, streamline workflows, and improve code quality. However, successful adoption requires careful planning and implementation of best practices. This presentation will cover key strategies for integrating GitHub into your organization's development processes. We will discuss topics such as setting up repositories, managing access controls, implementing branching strategies, and leveraging GitHub Actions for CI/CD. Additionally, we will explore how to foster a culture of collaboration through code reviews and issue tracking. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming common challenges and ensuring a smooth transition to GitHub, ultimately driving productivity and innovation within their teams. Key topics covered: * Setting up single sign-on (SSO) and integrating with existing identity providers * Configuring Enterprise Account settings and policies * Organization structure and repository management * Managing user access and permissions effectively * Hybrid Model for GitHub and Azure DevOps * Securing GitHub Actions and workflows * Implementing shift-left security practices * Addressing security concerns and ensuring data protection * Rolling out GitHub Copilot in an enterprise setting * Leveraging GitHub Apps and integrations for enhanced functionality * Integrating GitHub with existing development tools and systems * Monitoring and auditing usage for compliance *Come at 5:30 pm have some pizza and chat for a bit. The presentation starts at 6:00 pm.*

A relaxed, peaceful and inspired space to cultivate your creative work flow and accomplish what you have set out to do for the day. You are invited into an energized, peaceful and loving co-working space brought to you by Soul Guided "Community Empowerment Network. Click here to join the FB Group ----> [https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hrXN76q8ajyezbbY/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/soulguidednetwork/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZawTDSR4MxwxRFKd9h5nf8BWCZVGedrzK75YTONt5j_nCWiwN2HFToH9XnGbmMwMlAvft2_oGF5b9xkztvV2N1u3fv9nGwUuQgYQrOqBx5u7Q&__tn__=q) Come into a shanti "peaceful" work space and expect chill mood music, comfortable seating, optimal temperature, optional group break periods (some days will include breathwork, light yoga, walk, outdoor picnic). 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘰-𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘦𝘢, 𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘹𝘪𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘯𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦. Each meeting will begin with a short intro of each individual who is joining and space to share what you are working on, as well as some bigger goals/dreams you may have right now. This space is meant to lift each other up and to get to know each other during break periods. It is asked that during the work periods we are honour each individuals work flow and always ask if someone is available before attempting to interact/ask a question. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: \~Soul Sanctuary Studio = 303 Pape Ave, Toronto ON \~Ceremony Room (downstairs) \~Free Parking on the Road 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: Free or By Donation Suggested Donation: $5-10 *If you will be eating the snacks or drinking tea/elixirs, please make a donation. Cash donations can be made at the studio, e-transfer/paypal to chrisdubkundalini@gmail.com or donate via eventbrite here ---> https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/co-working-flow-focused-peaceful-energized-space-to-work-tickets-1982620182336?* 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴: Thursdays from 11-5:00pm. (Every other Thursday) 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗹 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 Click HERE for more ways you can get involved ---> https://linktr.ee/chrisdub And here to sign up for the Soul Guided Community Newsletter ---> [https://mailchi.mp/84b64bce4995/soulguided](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmailchi.mp%2F84b64bce4995%2Fsoulguided%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVnNDc1JZdno1UGZmeFZmUnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4jvvMVWiJScNLpr3SJQLi8T_QwVcJVSnMhi4qXrVPP-dLmS3JqCGPRtAzXCQ_aem_UyE2cXcPuNm1dVrwjSkAEA&h=AT6Z_kpk6kzo7KFaPPo5YNQhrt_bZ9EHEFj4aDP7k3YhyK217PS1GZqaTORCMJXjh4T68ueA7PiDYCwKjjy6eqtbGYA39bAwx3W4BsXCz6SVwTZxJSAr41twQrzyYp7uVlZrTrskTxwOtw33Se_lWw&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6xms8PWY7F_u7qMe7dXlxXeAk8V5qp9BBMv82B68IeWMpR4AyPb9NTHJ_Uk6KkNvM9E42NZlhisSsWPBUrXtNXfgZUXdxWd7vYrLOQRIbR_A_RW0P9fcvX2pq2wHmf)

The Gavel and Glass Toastmasters Club, Located in North York Ontario, was founded in May 1955 and is still going strong! We have a diverse membership with people from different backgrounds, professions, and speaking abilities. Gavel & Glass Toastmasters invites you to join their in-person meeting every other week at St. Mark's Presbyterian Church, 1 Greenland Rd., North York, ON Please plan to arrive at 6:45 pm to set up the meeting, introduce guests, and be ready to start at 7:00 pm sharp. Guests are always welcome!

This **SR&ED general information webinar** will provide an overview of the program. We will guide you through the eligibility criteria, qualifying expenditures, and the free tools and services offered by the CRA. * May 14th, 2026, 1 pm to 3 pm ET – English session I would suggest if you own a business and want to receive government funding for your project, thinking of starting a business to learn how you can form your business for maximum benefit, or wish to provide grant writing services to your clients. There is no charge to attend. Registration is required, as space is limited. To register: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html If you are a member of LeaderSHIFT, you will receive a detailed package with samples and a detailed guide at no cost. Click on attend. Some tools to help members: * [Pre-claim consultations](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0193&utm_term=SSV) that allow eligible claimants to work with an SR&ED specialist to determine if their project contains SR&ED work before they submit a claim; * The [SR&ED outreach program](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-outreach.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0195&utm_term=SSV), which offers targeted sector-specific presentations and one-on-one presentations to businesses, in addition to hosting general information webinars. We also provide accessible digital resources to help businesses determine their eligibility, calculate expenditures and prepare their claim. These tools include: * The [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0197&utm_term=SSV), which helps claimants find out if their work is likely to qualify for SR&ED tax incentives and estimate their potential claim amount in about 30 minutes or less; * The SR&ED Client Portal, available within [My Business Account](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/digital-services-businesses/business-account.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0199&utm_term=SSV), which is a secure, one-stop workspace designed to support claimants throughout the claim process. ## Learn about the program * Register for an upcoming [SR&ED webinar](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0248) * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to book a tailored one-on-one outreach session * Refer to our [annual program statistics](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/annual-program-statistics.html) web page for updated program information * Visit our [multimedia gallery](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/multimedia-gallery.html) for infographics, videos, and a podcast feature ## Find out if your work may be eligible * Refer to our eligibility of work [guidelines](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-policies-guidelines/guidelines-eligibility-work-sred-tax-incentives.html) * Use our quick and easy [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0254) * Request a [pre-claim consultation](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0256) for a project that is either in-progress or completed ## Prepare your claim * Follow our [step-by-step guide](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-claim.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0260): how to prepare your claim * Use the [SR&ED Client Portal](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/cra-login-services.html) within My Business Account to start building your claim * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to speak to an SR&ED specialist The link will be emailed to all accepted registered participants by SR&ED office of Revenue Canada directly.

On May 14, 2026, a select group of executive leaders will gather in Toronto for the **[BFUTR Launch Executive Mixer](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/b6a3331f-5da0-47b5-8cdf-ce667f363f55)**—an invitation-only evening that officially kicks off the BFUTR 2026 season. 🚀 This is where senior leaders step away from the noise to connect with peers navigating the same enterprise challenges: scaling AI responsibly, reinventing the workforce, modernizing legacy systems, and turning data into lasting competitive advantage. 🤝📊 The evening will feature a short executive panel where industry leaders share how their organizations are responding to these shifts in real time—what’s working, what’s not, and how leaders are making decisions as the enterprise is reprogrammed. 🎤 With the room intentionally small and curated, the mixer creates space for meaningful dialogue, strategic relationships, and powerful connections with other executives shaping the future of their organizations. 🧠🔗 Guests will also get the first look at **[BFUTR 2026](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)**, including headliner announcements, programming reveals, and the conversations set to define this year’s summit in November. 👀✨ Start your BFUTR Executive experience by connecting with the tech titans driving the industry forward to new heights. ⚡ **[Register now to secure your invitation.](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/b6a3331f-5da0-47b5-8cdf-ce667f363f55)** **📅 Date:** May 14, 2026 **📍 Location:** Toronto, Ontario **📌 Venue:** Confidential — shared only with confirmed attendees. **🔥Attendance is by invitation only - Director plus audiences without exception.** Submitting a registration form and receiving a registration email does not guarantee entry. Only guests who receive a separate confirmation of attendance will be admitted.🔥

Your first taste of **[BFUTR 2026](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)** starts here. On May 14, 2026, join a room filled with ambitious technologists, builders, operators, and rising leaders as we kick off the BFUTR season in Toronto. The **[BFUTR Launch Party](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/c119fab0-0438-44b8-823c-44f953cf9e86)** is an exclusive evening designed for professionals who want to connect early with the community shaping what’s next in tech—months before the summit takes over the stage in November. Expect a high-energy atmosphere with music, great food, and curated networking alongside professionals navigating the same shifts reshaping the enterprise today—from AI and automation to evolving career paths in tech. Throughout the evening, attendees will also get the first look at BFUTR 2026, including headliner announcements, programming reveals, and the ideas that will shape this year’s summit. This is where the conversations start, the connections happen, and the momentum toward BFUTR begins. 🎧 Live DJ & Music 🍸 Drinks and great food 🤝 Meaningful connections with technologists and industry leaders 🚀 Early BFUTR 2026 announcements Date: May 14, 2026 Location: Toronto, Ontario This event is reserved for BFUTR 2026 pass holders. Your **[BFUTR pass](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)** must be presented upon entry. Secure your spot and start your BFUTR journey early. ⚠️ This event is restricted to guests aged 18 and over - minors not admitted. **[CLICK HERE TO REGISTER](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/c119fab0-0438-44b8-823c-44f953cf9e86)**

We’re thrilled to invite you to an exciting meetup! We'll have one talk presented by an Elastic employee and one presented by a community member. Bring your questions and come support the community! **Agenda** **5:00 PM** – Doors Open Come in, say hello, grab some food, and settle in for an engaging evening. **5:45 PM** – **"Lessons from evaluating production AI Agents for over a year", presented by** Susan Chang, Principal Data Scientist at Elastic **6:15 PM** – Q&A **6:30 PM** – "**Elasticsearch Journey – Working in Different Industries", presented by** Yasir Zaid, Elastic Certified Engineer **7:00 PM** – Q&A **7:15 PM** – Networking & Event Wrap-Up Stick around to chat, connect, and share insights with fellow attendees. **When:** Thursday, May 14th 5:00 - 7:00 pm **Where:** [Centre for Social Innovation - Spadina](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=43.650017%2C%20-79.397156) 192 Spadina Ave. · Toronto, ON 3rd floor, The Viola Desmond Room **Abstracts** **"Lessons from evaluating production AI Agents for over a year"** This talk covers methods of evaluating AI Agents, with an example of how the speakers built evaluation frameworks for a user-facing AI Agent system which has been in production for over a year. We share tools and frameworks used (as well as tradeoffs and alternatives), and discuss methods such as LLM-as-Judge, rules-based evaluations, ML metrics used, as well as selection tradeoffs. **Bio:** Susan Shu Chang is a Principal Data Scientist at Elastic, where she leads work on production-grade machine learning, including generative AI and agentic workflows. She is also an internationally recognized speaker, O’Reilly author, and keynote presenter at major global technical conferences. **My Elasticsearch Journey – Working in Different Industries** This talk explores Yasir Zaidi’s hands-on experience using Elastic products to deliver strategic solutions across banking, insurance, and telecommunications. Through real-world examples, the session will cover how Elasticsearch and the broader Elastic Stack have been used for search architecture, security, SIEM, and observability, along with some of the newer and more exciting projects now being built with Elastic. The talk will also highlight recent Elasticsearch features and innovations, and how they are opening up new possibilities for modern enterprise use cases. **Bio:** Yasir Zaidi is the Owner of ZD Inc. ([https://zd-inc.net/](https://zd-inc.net/)) and Elasticsearch Experts ([https://elasticsearch.expert/](https://elasticsearch.expert/)), and Co-Founder of 360metrics ([https://www.360metrics.io/](https://www.360metrics.io/)) and Certified Elasticsearch Partner Solution Architect. He has delivered hundreds of Elasticsearch projects for organizations around the world, with experience spanning Observability, SIEM, Enterprise search, Cloud deployments, and AI-powered search solutions, Serverless and much more. His work includes engagements with Ericsson, SAP, Intact Insurance, Videotron, RONA, Geotab and Desjardins Bank, just to name a few. Backed by three master’s degrees and Elastic certifications, Yasir brings deep technical expertise and proven global delivery experience. Linkedin: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasirzaidi/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasirzaidi/) Spots are limited, so don't miss out!

Spend a day outside playing softball, having a drink, and actually enjoying being out with people. Register here ($35 until May 15th): [https://www.headouttoronto.ca/registration](https://www.headouttoronto.ca/registration) This event is called **In Play - a social-first day** for people who have played before and understand the rules of the game. It's **3 pitch format**, with teams pitching to their own players. **Teams and game times are set in advance**, so you'll know exactly when you're playing. Each team plays two games within a 4-hour window, and you're welcome to hang out at the park as long as you like. **Most people sign up solo or with a friend.** **What to expect:** \- 2 casual games \(50 minutes each\) \- Social\-first\, rec level play \- 3\-pitch format \- BBQ lunch \- Team and schedule set in advance \- Self umpired games **Details:** Date: Sunday May 17th Time: Between 10AM - 4PM Location: Coronation Park, Toronto Register here ($35 until May 15th): [https://www.headouttoronto.ca/registration](https://www.headouttoronto.ca/registration) New to softball? Start with our Starter Series instead!

Understand how the job market is changing. Learn which skills matter. Take a practical step toward growth in the age of AI. AI is transforming the job market, putting roles like Uber drivers, retail and office staff at risk, while creating new opportunities in AI-driven careers, are you ready for the shift?

Join us for an exciting Hybrid Travel Talk—available in person or online via Zoom—as we explore the beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences of Ireland and Wales. Hosted by Diego Perez, Business Development Manager – Eastern Canada at C.I.E. Tours, this informative session will take you through two of Europe’s most captivating destinations, known for their dramatic coastlines, historic castles, welcoming locals, and rich Celtic traditions. What You’ll Learn: Iconic sights and hidden gems across Ireland and Wales Scenic routes, countryside escapes, and coastal highlights Local culture, traditions, and culinary experiences Ideal travel seasons and sample itineraries Insider knowledge on C.I.E. Tours’ guided travel experiences Whether you join us in person or tune in virtually from home, this session is perfect for seasoned travelers and first‑time visitors alike. A live Q&A will conclude the presentation—bring your questions! Speaker Diego Perez Business Development Manager – Eastern Canada C.I.E. Tours Who Should Attend • Solo travelers, couples or groups of families and friends planning a trip to Ireland and/or Wales • Clients interested in escorted or guided European tours • Anyone seeking inspiration for a future vacation Attendance Options ✅ In‑Person Location: 2035 Danforth Ave., Toronto, ON M4C 1J8 [2-minute walk from Woodbine TTC subway station] ✅ Virtual: Join live via Zoom (link sent after registration within 24 hours) Registration Link: [https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/95KPJPcIRoya60HpQkshWw](https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/95KPJPcIRoya60HpQkshWw)

Join the Toronto Founders Hub every other Saturday at 3:30pm for our regular meetup at 5 Elements Espresso Bar. Sit down with other entrepreneurs to network and discuss business ideas or strategies. \- Broaden your network \- Get critical feedback \- Socialize in low pressure setting I look forward to seeing you!

Whether you're a seasoned tech veteran or just starting out, let's create the ideal afterwork place to meet and chill with other workers in tech - find that new job, expand your network, share ideas, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry. Let's inspire, innovate, and shape the future of technology in Toronto! Tech, AI, Data, IT, and more \~ ​ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### Event Details 💰 Cost: Free 🍺🥃 Afterwork drinks and social 📍 The Goodman Pub and Kitchen (Inside, or ask for Tech Social) - 207 Queens Quay W 🕕 6:00pm onwards every Friday ​ **Or RSVP on the website for our Discord / WhatsApp communities, and to see who else is going and what their backgrounds/seniority/interests are:** 🔗 [Link to Website](https://techsocialtoronto.com/event/meetup) ​ If you cannot find us, ask staff about Tech Social, or ask in the WhatsApp community above. ​ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### Who Should Attend? Perfect for **Toronto tech professionals** including: * **Software Developers & Engineers** (Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, React, Node.js) * **Data Scientists & Analysts** (Machine Learning, AI, Data Visualization, SQL) * **Cybersecurity Professionals** (InfoSec, Ethical Hacking, Cloud Security) * **Product Managers & Tech Entrepreneurs** * **Students & Tech Graduates** looking to break into tech * **Career Changers** entering tech industry * **Remote Workers & Digital Nomads** in Toronto * **Startup Employees & Entrepreneurs** * **Digital Marketing & Product Professionals** * **Senior Engineers** looking to mentor and network \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### What You'll Experience * 🤝 **Network with Toronto tech community** * 💼 **Job opportunities** and referrals from peers * 🚀 **Career acceleration** through peer networking * 🎯 **Skill sharing** and tech discussions * 🧠 **Knowledge sharing** on latest tech trends * 🎉 **Social activities** and games * 🧠 **Learn from peers** about real-world challenges * 🚀 **Collaborate** on projects and ideas * 🎯 **Mentorship connections** (both ways!) * 🍻 **Fun, casual atmosphere** \- no matter your seniority level \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### Event Guidelines * Support the venue by purchasing drinks/food (no outside items allowed) * Maintain appropriate behavior and respect for all attendees * Bring physical ID if required by venue (call ahead to confirm) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ​ ​ *Toronto Canada tech social mixer afterwork drinks AI connect network data IT programming cybersecurity digital nomad blockchain crypto big data science computer networking community jobs entrepreneur industry product design startup software development machine learning python javascript professional networking career development it professionals developers mentorship ai sql analytics data engineering business intelligence deep learning tensorflow pytorch data visualization data analysts ml engineers Toronto Canada tech social mixer afterwork drinks AI connect network data IT programming cybersecurity digital nomad blockchain crypto big data science computer networking community jobs entrepreneur industry product design startup software development machine learning python javascript professional networking career development it professionals developers mentorship ai sql analytics data engineering business intelligence deep learning tensorflow pytorch data visualization data analysts ml engineers*

Let’s do some coding together at a cafe! No more working alone in the weekend. Here, we write code together. And I mean together together. Not occupying-the-same-space-but-separate together. Here’s how it works: Jennifer brings her mobile app project, tells everyone that it is like Pinterest for recipes and she’d like to work on the nav bar. Paul and Chloe think Jennifer's project is fascinating, and they join the group. They gather around Jennifer’s laptop and work on the nav bar for 2 hours. Jennifer is the one typing out the code while Paul and Chloe research, brainstorm, and offer suggestions. If you’re feeling stuck on your own project or need a motivation boost, bring it to mob programming! Want to learn by watching how others code and solve problems? Join someone else’s project at this event! Oh and we love your half-done projects that you are a bit embarrassed to share. Absolutely bring those to the event! **Discord**: We use Discord to share screen & code snippets during the event. Also feel free to share your projects here before the event! https://discord.gg/xwjDdVSw3E **Event policy**: * We have 0 tolerance for harassment. * We don’t allow the projects that are not meant to be shared in public such as school assignments, interview tasks, or trade secrets. * The goal is to write code. We discourage you from pitching business ideas here, doing code reviews, or spending the whole event on planning what to do. * Please buy a drink, and tip the barista well.

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation** **What You Really Need to Know from an HR Professional** **Presented by Donna Giarratana** **Wednesday\, May 27 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us for a practical and insightful resource presentation designed to help small business owners navigate one of the most critical — and often overlooked — areas of growth: **Human Resources**. *** ## **About the Session** As your business grows, so do the complexities of managing people, processes, and compliance. Many entrepreneurs wait too long to think about HR — and by the time they do, they’re already reacting instead of planning. In this session, **Donna Giarratana** will break down what small business owners *really* need to know about HR — in a way that is clear, actionable, and relevant to your stage of growth. This conversation is designed to help you move from uncertainty to confidence when it comes to building and managing your team. *** ## **What You’ll Learn** * When it’s the right time to hire * How to set your business up for success before bringing on employees * Why HR matters — even for small businesses * Common pitfalls and how to avoid them * The foundational HR knowledge every business owner should have *** ## **Who Should Attend** * Entrepreneurs preparing to hire their first employee * Small business owners currently managing a team * Founders looking to strengthen operations and compliance * Anyone who wants to build a business with a strong, scalable foundation *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain clarity on one of the most important aspects of business growth * Learn how to avoid costly mistakes before they happen * Ask questions and get real-world insight from an HR professional * Walk away with practical knowledge you can apply immediately *** ## **About 1 Million Cups** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **May 27** for coffee, connection, and a conversation that will help you build your business the right way from the inside out. We look forward to seeing you there.

**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.

When: Thursday, May 14, 2026, 5:30 – 8:30 Location: Lost Rhino, 21730 Red Rum Dr, Ste 142, Ashburn, VA 20147 Come network with other local GovCon Executives and enjoy a few free beers on us and engage with our sponsors and Industry speakers. Speaker: Advanced Technology International (ATI), Tom Bailey – Director of Strategic Engagements. Largest Consortium Management firm, will discuss collaborations and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) – allows agencies to enter into agreements for research, development, prototyping, and sometimes production of new technologies or capabilities. Will provide overview of these collaborations with discussions and Q&A. Please register here for your spot and please enter full name and company so a badge will be waiting for you. If you would like your company logo to appear on the digital board, please message the logo to me. Feel free to pass along to another colleague or GovCon Executive in your network. Co-Sponsorships: Insperity, Pinnacle Financial Partners

\#\# Details ## What to Expect: A Laid-Back Environment: Brew, Food, and Like-Minded Individuals. Grab a beer at the bar and join in! Networking: Short and Sweet Introductions to Kick Things Off. Connect with fellow tech professionals, exchange ideas, and broaden your network horizon. Our meetups are designed for meaningful interactions and creating a supportive community. (Just talk and have fun!) Agenda: 1\. Introductions 2\. Talk and Meet New People 3\. Enjoy Drafts\, Food\, and Conversation 4\. \*Drive Home Safely\* \*\*\ *ATTENTION \*\*\* We are meeting at Bunnyman Chantilly. Address: 14140 Parke Long Ct A-C, Chantilly, VA 20151

Sean Jackson a recruiter with General Dynamics will be speaking on a wide range of subjects that will help MOTIVATED job seekers streamline their job search. He will answer many questions that MOTIVATED job seekers have. ## At the end of this webinar, there will be a brief Christian story.-------------------IF YOU ARE NEW TO Career-Confidence.org and want to learn about us via our team, here are some videos that we have done. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to our channel and LIKE our videos. Laura Hamilton and Robert Brandau both long-time recruiters give you an overview.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R20iMmWWsas Doris McMillon of our Board of Directorshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNmOi9TsYGs&t=10s --Bruce, Silvia, and Mary Beth talk about the impact of Career-Confidence.org on their job search.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtFRWzhKLo --Kim DeWitt Succinctly Talks about our Teamhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSHCEK11jD0 \-\-\-Cecilia and Nate – 2 of our Alumni give an overview of Career\-Confidence\.org\. perspective\.https://www\.youtube\.com/watch?v=uNstYHVnfAA --Sara's Experience with Career-Confidence.org - Surprise Ending – Pre-Covidhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEuKuvZyEYE&t=51s

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-devt-affairs-and-ngos-hh-with-teetotalersstudents-pass-tickets-880368996367](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-devt-affairs-and-ngos-hh-with-teetotalersstudents-pass-tickets-880368996367)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT. ABOUT THE EVENT This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the International Affairs and Development community, to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other International Affairs professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in International Affairs and Development careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global development.

Join our new group’s third meeting. Meet fellow tech enthusiasts west of the beltway. ​Because our group is new, we have a poll for the direction we want to take this new group. ​[https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca](https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca) ​For this event, we will be running a working meetup. ​Our meetings are a great place to work on and show off what you do. We are always welcoming. ​Our format is great for people who have started on but not finished one or several side projects. ​We will start off with basic introductions and what we are working on and what our goals are. We’ll break the rest of the meeting into two working sessions. In between, we’ll do a quick check-in to see how folks are going.