Java Futures: Talks and Discussion on Java’s Next 30 Years

In 2025, Java turns 30. To mark the occasion, Accenture, Next Gen Engineering Leeds invites you to an evening of thought-provoking talks and discussion about where Java stands today — and where it’s headed. Is Java destined to become the next COBOL? Or will it continue to evolve into a modern, cloud-native, AI-augmented language?

Join us as we explore Java’s trajectory — from its challenging years in the 2000s to its current resurgence — and ask: what should developers expect in the next 30 years?

Schedule
17:30 - 18:00: Doors open - turn up, meet people, grab a drink.
18:00 - 18:15: Pizza arrives
18:15 - 18:20: Intro
18:20: Talks and discussion
19:30: More discussion, and the option to continue talking elsewhere

• Java at 30: From Applets to AI: James Burt reflects on Java’s history, from its early popularity to its decline in the 2000s, and its remarkable comeback in recent years. This talk will trace Java’s evolution through personal experience and industry trends.
• Java and GenAI: Matt Murray shares insights from working with Java in a GenAI context — what’s actually working, where the real potential lies, and how AI could impact legacy systems and modern Java workflows.
• Open Discussion We want your thoughts: What role should Java play in the next decade? What should change, and what should stay the same?
  Drinks and snacks provided

Where
Next Gen Engineering,
Aspley House
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZD1eFPfcASxYDPxU6
Ring the intercom when you arrive, looking for Accenture on the 2nd floor.

Food and Drink
We’ll be providing a range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Food will be in the form of pizza - please let us know if you have any specific dietary requirements prior to the day and we will endeavour to meet your needs.