10/30/2008 by Brian Mavity
I am in Austin for kaizenconf. This would not be unusual in any respect except for the fact that I have never been to a software development conference. The closest I have come was Codeapalooza, but that was a one day event. What really stands out is the impact of being in the same room and discussing issues with bloggers I read and respect. I'm not gonna lie, it's still a bit intimidating.
It's obvious even after one day that this trip will more than pay for itself with the insights that I will gain and the improvement to my skill set that will result. One of the things I really respect about kaizenconf is that nobody is trying to sell you the next greatest thing. It's all about improving the craft along with the tools and concepts that will facilitate that improvement.
But the truth of the matter is that the important part of the experience is the human interaction. I am convinced (yes, after one day) that conferences are essential to developer growth. I find it sad that not all companies subsidize conference attendance for their developers. It seems to me that if any company not offering this opportunity is tacitly admitting it is uninterested in investing in its developers.
The bottom line
As a software developer, I know there are often many legitimate reasons to stay with a company. However, if you are reading blogs then you are in the top 20% of developers and you have earned an investment by caring deeply about your craft. Insist that your company invest in you, or find one that will. You are worth it.