CodeMash

CodeMash is a conference that runs early in January each year at the Kalahari in Sandusky, Ohio.

30-second Overview

A few weeks before the conference, I was asked to provide a 30-second overview of the event. I went on for **more than 10 minutes.

Who I Am

I am Bob Fornal:

• A Senior Solutions Developer II with Leading EDJE, Inc..
• A Microsoft MVP (information HERE).
• A Torc Ambassador: their community is amazing (Discord HERE).

And, I work with the Board for CodeMash:

• I am on the Speaker Selection Committee (I help pick the amazing talks).
• I am on the Safety Committee.
• I am on the DEI Committee.

I do a lot for the conference because it means something to me. This year, I volunteered and proctored many sessions, going beyond just participating.

My wife and kids participate:

• My son has attended KidzMash with me for the last 6 years (KidzMash is free).
• My wife and daughter come up on Friday and stay until Sunday (my time to decompress).

The Kalahari

The Kalahari is not just a conference center. It is a hotel, conference center, and water park - all in one. It’s amazing to be there for a week and never go outside!

KidzMash

As I said, KidzMash is free (they do need an adult present), and there are workshops and sessions just for them.

Workshops

Tuesday & Wednesday are workshop sessions (generally 4 hours) where we learn and put the skills to the test. This is the time to build and create things.

This year, I got to proctor for two close friends and two co-workers. It was a lot of fun helping their workshops come to life!

Sessions

Thursday & Friday are what most would consider regular sessions. Quite a few attendees are here for just these two days. There are more people and the pace is faster; it becomes much more fun.

I got to present on "Ditch your JavaScript for CSS!"

Additionally, I got to proctor four amazing talks (yes, some of the talks that I selected) and learn from my peers.

Maker Space

The MakerSpace is the "umbrella" that includes 3d printing, an electronics lab, hands-on sessions, and traditional presentations on Maker topics!

Sponsors

This year’s sponsor list is HERE. These are the organizations that make a conference like this happen. They should always get a shout-out!

Outreach

This year, we got snow.

No real surprise.

The weather hindered our outreach program because the high school sending students was closed.

The plan was for them to attend a few sessions, have lunch with some of the speakers and attendees, and lead a workshop of their own.

Maybe next year.

And, more ...

Seriously.

There is so much more to this conference that I haven’t even touched (lightning talks, dinners with co-workers and friends, etc.).

Summary

CodeMash is a fun and amazing conference.

It’s impossible to cover all the amazing things that go on at CodeMash.

I am truly proud that they allow me to be such a significant part of this event that brings so much to our community!