Team up against imposter syndrome

Ever had the feeling that you're falling short, or that you're not cut out for your job and it's only a matter of time before everyone finds out? Well, here's a bit of comfort: you're in good company.

Imposter syndrome has been getting more attention as it can really mess with your personal development. But we can’t ignore how much it affects teamwork and the places we work. The real problem starts when we are too afraid to admit we don't know.

In this session, let's get real about Imposter syndrome. We will discuss what it is and how you can recognize it. Then, we'll explore some tactics to deal with it. Since we've all felt inadequate, now's the moment to learn tricks for convincing our brains that we've got this. Finally, let's consider how we can help others. With the right team spirit, we'll shrink those feelings of not fitting in so everyone can thrive.

GitHub Actions to deploy to Azure: Take it to the next level

A basic deployment to Azure from GitHub Actions can be set up in 10 minutes. And we will do that, to get the basics down. But let's take it a step further. How can you make sure a workflow runs as efficient and flexible as possible? What options do you have to make a connection? Can different Bicep templates interact with each other? How do you work with stages? How do you make the workflow act differently based on branch or pull request label? Can you implement manual approvals?

In this session we will start with the basic workflow and walk through these great options that GitHub has to offer to get your workflow to work for you.

Secure access to your Azure environment: Let's count the ways

Azure's web-based access is incredibly convenient, allowing you to enter the portal from any device, anywhere. But this convenience isn't exclusive to you; it's also a potential gateway for those with malicious intent, trying to exploit your resources, data and budget. The consequences from a security breach can be huge.

In an era where digital protection is needed more than ever, navigating the security tools can be overwhelming. Some tools might slow down your processes. Is the added security worth the potential decrease in speed? Is it necessary?

This session is your guide through the security options available to cloud engineers. We'll explore MFA, PIM, JIT, VPN, PAW, and other three-letter abbreviations that stand between your Azure environment intruders. Discover modern tools that not only secure your Azure space but could also be used for on-premises access through Azure.

By the end of our journey, you'll have a blueprint for creating the most secure environment. You'll leave equipped to make informed decisions about which security measures are right for your setup. Let's secure your Azure landscape together.

Make your company hate PowerShell in 3 easy steps

PowerShell is awesome. We all need PowerShell. Automate everything! Nothing can go wrong right?

Let's talk about the darker site of PowerShell. Is there such a thing as automating too much? Can solutions be too good? Code quality too high? I believe these can absolutely be true, especially in larger companies. So let's discuss the things you can do to make sure that your company will start hating PowerShell as efficiently as possible.
With that out of the way, we will walk through the business value of automating. What goal are you trying to reach and are you saving as much time as you think you do? In the end, everyone will love PowerShell as much as we do!

Turn the Azure Cloud Adoption Framework into reality

The Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework for Azure promises a flexible environment where developers have the freedom to innovate while keeping data and resources secure. Sounds great right? It is, but real life implementations can often come with some challenges. Including the first world problem of too much documentation.

In this session, we'll look at the Cloud Adoption Framework and how you can use it effectively. I will take your through each step of the Framework and the challenges that came with them in the real world implementations. Spoiler alert: It’s often not the technology that’s the problem! By the end of this talk you will have actionable knowledge to shape your own Azure journey to its fullest potential

Coding in the Cloud: A guide to GitHub Codespaces

With GitHub Codespaces, you can enjoy coding effortlessly, straight from your browser! Use whatever device to write your code. No installation, no fuss. Codespaces are avaliable for everyone with a GitHub account for free. A great opportunity to get a better development experience, whether you are a developer or an operations expert.

In this session, I'll walk you through the ins and outs of Codespaces and show you how to create one from your GitHub repo. We'll cover a range of use cases, settings, and how to work with Visual Studio Code to get the most out of your Codespace. By the end of this session, you'll be all set to dive in and start using Codespaces with ease!

Start using GIT for PowerShell

So you have been working with PowerShell. You hear a lot of people around you talking about GIT and you want to get into the game. But there are so many possibilities, you have no clue where to start. You're not a dev, you just write small scripts every now and then. Then this session is for you.

Don't hesitate to bring your laptop in this workshop to getting started with GIT. We cover the absolute basics in a very practical way. In the end you will be able to use GIT for your own PowerShell scripts, as backup and version control.

Automating Azure: Make the portal work for you

So you are settling in with Azure. Creating and managing resources, keeping track with Azure Monitor, Making use of the different IAAS, PAAS and SAAS offerings.
To take it all to the next level, let's consider an environment where you do not need the portal. It is possible to have a complete Azure environment running on automation and code, taking away all manual work and the need for the Portal. The quickest way to start with that? Use the portal.

In this talk we take a look at the different types of automation that Azure has to offer for daily tasks, resource creation and maintenance. For each tool, we look at how the portal helps you create your code and what other resources are available to start your own automation journey.

Deploying to Azure: Azure DevOps Pipelines vs GitHub Actions

When using Infrastructure as Code, it’s crucial to maintain the highest possible quality and security of your code. Automated tests and deployments help us achieve a consistent and stable Azure environment.

But which tool should you use? Both Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions are professional tools to achieve this goal, but how do they compare? In this session, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two tools. How much time does it take to learn them, how much management do they require, and how do they integrate with Azure? Together, we’ll discover which of the two best fits your situation.

No cartoons in Azure: Creating a solid naming- and tagging strategy

Working with Azure brings a very familiar challenge: the naming convention. Who remembers inheriting servers named after cartoons, vegetables, scientists or random jokes? It's always funny until it starts scaling. With Azure, you reach this point very fast and it pays to get it right directly.
In this talk, we will look at the choices to make, the technical and strategical challenges and some tips & tricks from the field. Last but not least, let's see how we can integrate that naming- and tagging convention in our Infrastructure as Code to help get the most consistent environment. You will thank yourself later!

Bicep: From zero to hero

If you're working with infrastructure as code and Azure, you've likely heard about Bicep. Still waiting for the right moment to dive in? Well, your opportunity has arrived!

Join me as we start a journey through Visual Studio Code to discover Bicep. We'll start with the basics and gradually unveil the full spectrum of features Bicep offers, from conditions and loops to modules, registries, and testing opportunities. This session is packed with demos and real-life examples. By the end, you'll be just as thrilled as I am to get started with Bicep!

Copilot for Microsoft 365: The things you didn't think about

Of course you already know about Copilot for Microsoft 365. And you probably want it! You're eager to jump in and simplify your work life. But hold on a sec, it's not just about snagging those licenses and diving in.

There are a few things to think about first. Like, is your Sharepoint dataa ready for an AI powerhouse sifting through? Is your data even on SharePoint? And let's talk strategy. Copilot for Microsoft 365 doesn't come for free, so who gets access? How do you make that call without ruffling feathers?

Then there is the added challenge of making sure your employees not only understand how to make the most of Copilot for Microsoft 365, but also use it in a responsible way. AI's got its quirks, and awareness is key.

By the end of this session, you will have all the answers to the questions you didn't even know you had to ask. You'll be prepped to roll out Copilot for Microsoft 365 across your company and make the most of its new opportunities!

Bicep: Build your first Azure template in minutes

If you're working with infrastructure as code and Azure, you've likely heard about Bicep. Still waiting for the right moment to dive in? Well, your opportunity has arrived!

In this session, I'll show you how Visual Studio Code can be of great help. Even with no experience at all, you will have templates ready to deploy in no time. We will start with the basics and then look through the awesome features that Bicep offers, from conditions and loops to modules.

By the end, you'll be just as thrilled as I am to get started with Bicep!

30 min session

Translating technology to the business

When I was working as a technical engineer, I never really understood the business side of things. Why didn’t they just follow my advice on Azure environments or automation solutions? Why were standardized solutions and budgets such a big deal? And don’t even get me started on the layers of management and politics. Sound familiar?

Now, as part of the management team at an IT service provider, I still believe technology is the most important part. But I’ve also gained a better understanding of what drives a company and how decisions are made. In this talk, I want to help you understand as well, so you can become more effective in reaching goals.

We’ll explore how you, as a technical engineer, can achieve your goals while also getting the business on your side. Let's talk business needs, budgets, politics. Maybe the frustration is mutual? Through practical tips and real world experiences, we’ll learn how to bridge the gap and ensure the business understands our perspective. Ultimately, it’s all about learning to speak each other’s language. Join me to turn mutual frustration into mutual success!

Generative AI tools for the Azure Engineer

Generative AI is all around us. You can get them in all colors, shapes and sizes to find out which works best for you specific use case.
What if you are an Azure engineer? How can these AI tools simplify your daily tasks?
In this session, we’ll explore the best tools to improve your workflow. Discover which ones live up to the hype and can truly make your job easier.
Join me to learn about Copilot for Azure, GitHub Copilot, Copilot in the Browser, ChatGPT and their relevant friends. We discuss use cases, risks, costs, benefits and tips on how to make the most of AI in your everyday work.