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Tue, April 21TechLead
The Java ecosystem thrives because of a global community built on collaboration, mentorship, and contribution. With over 30 years of continuous innovation and more than 10 million developers worldwide, it remains one of the most enduring and influential software communities. This session explores a practical model for skill growth, professional networking, and personal fulfillment through contribution.
Drawing from hundreds of conversations with Java Champions, OpenJDK contributors, Java User Group leaders, and open source developers, the session highlights how strategic contributions can create reciprocal benefits for individuals, employers, and the wider Java ecosystem. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to start contributing effectively, from participating in meetups to engaging in open source projects, and learn how such efforts open doors to leadership, visibility, and long-term relationships within the Java community.
What You Will Learn
Proven strategies to start and scale your contributions within the Java community
How contribution drives professional growth, mentorship, and collaboration
Ways to build visibility, leadership opportunities, and lasting connections through community engagement
Who Should Attend
Java developers, open source contributors, technical leads, and community organizers seeking to grow their skills, network, and impact within the Java ecosystem.
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Jim Grisanzio works at Oracle on the Java Developer Relations Team. He hosts the Duke’s Corner Podcast, publishes the Inside Java Newsletter, produces videos and photography, facilitates the Java User Group and Java Champions programs, and delivers community sessions at conferences. Previously in Oracle developer marketing, Jim managed the Oracle Developers YouTube channel, the team’s social media channels, and the Oracle Groundbreakers Podcast. Since 2017, he’s interviewed hundreds of developers on Java, Linux, Oracle Database, MySQL, AI/ML, and Open Source. Before Oracle, Jim managed FOSS projects in Solaris engineering at Sun Microsystems, served as OpenSolaris Community Manager, and led competitive communications for Sun’s Open Source projects and senior executives. You can find Jim on X @jimgris or his blog https://jimgrisanzio.wordpress.com/.
