THAT Conference 2024 Experience

Hey there, Geeks and Campers! If this greeting sounds foreign to you, you must be new to the idea of THAT Conference, a tech conference dubbed “summer camp for geeks.” THAT Conference is held twice yearly at the Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, and Round Rock, Texas. Last week, I was lucky enough to attend THAT Conference in Wisconsin and I wanted to share my experience.

THAT Conference is a refreshing anomaly in a world of stiff suits and PowerPoint presentations. Billed as "Summer Camp for Geeks," it's a tech conference that flips the script. Gone are the stuffy convention halls and endless keynote speeches. Their place has a vibrant, casual atmosphere that encourages learning, collaboration, and fun. Regardless of whether you try to or not, you will make friends during your time at camp (which is how attendees reference the conference).

When attendees enter the conference center, they're immersed in a playful nostalgia. The entire conference center hallway is filled with sponsors running raffles for fantastic giveaways, free tech swag at every booth, and an informal setup encouraging conversation. Faux bonfires, buffet tables, and coffee stations await. Here’s a picture of what the conference center hallway looked like during part of the day, with tables for collaboration:

Yet, amidst the fun, there's a severe focus on technology. Workshops, panels, and demos are interspersed throughout the day, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. THAT Conference believes that learning should be enjoyable. This philosophy is evident in the interactive nature of the sessions provided. Instead of passive listening (there are some sessions for that, too, if that's your thing), attendees can join sessions that involve hands-on activities, workshopping or group code projects. The conference's organizers curate a mix of technical deep dives and broader, thought-provoking discussions, ensuring there's something for everyone. They even have sessions tailored for kids!

A strong sense of community is at the heart of THAT Conference. Attendees come from diverse backgrounds and skill levels but share a common passion for technology. The camp-like atmosphere fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing. Informal gatherings (“Open Spaces”), hackathons, and open-source projects create opportunities for attendees to connect and learn from each other. When it comes to Open Spaces, which are held in rooms with the main stage at the conference center, anyone can host a conversation on any topic (even non-tech-related!). At the same time, curated speaking sessions are ongoing throughout the day.

While technology is undoubtedly the show's star, THAT Conference recognizes the importance of work-life balance. Wellness activities such as early morning 5ks are incorporated into the schedule. Family-friendly fun activities such as a Pig Roast dinner, family game night, and a late-night waterpark party at the Kalahari are also included, ensuring attendees have ample opportunities to unwind and recharge. THAT Conference is not just about learning and having fun while doing it; it's also a platform for networking opportunities and hanging out with brilliant people. The unique format of THAT Conference leads to unexpected connections. The casual atmosphere breaks down barriers, allowing attendees to build genuine relationships. These connections often result in collaborations, partnerships, and job opportunities. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, THAT Conference helps nurture talent within the tech field.

THAT Conference is committed to staying ahead of the curve as the tech industry evolves. The conference has carved out a niche by combining the best of both worlds - education and entertainment. With a focus on community, innovation, and fun, THAT “Summer Camp for Geeks” Conference is poised to remain a beloved gathering place for tech enthusiasts for years to come.