***REGISTER HERE***
Agenda
7:15 - 8:30 p.m. Discussion
Event Summary
About the Book
"Code" is a modern classic that brilliantly demystifies computers. Author Charles Petzold takes us on a journey starting with familiar concepts like Morse code and simple electrical circuits. Step by step, he builds upon these ideas to show how simple on/off signals—bits and bytes—combine to create the complex logic that powers our digital world.
You'll see how basic components like logic gates are the building blocks for everything from calculators to the computer on your desk. The book masterfully explains how these physical components give rise to the software we use every day.
Why Join Our Discussion?
This isn't just a book report; it's a collaborative exploration! We'll discuss the ingenious concepts from the book, share our "aha!" moments, and tackle any tricky parts together.
Whether you're a seasoned developer or have never written a line of code, this book has something for you. We'll talk about how Petzold makes abstract ideas tangible and how fundamental logic, like a simple AND operation (represented as A⋅B), scales up to create incredible complexity.
No worries if you haven't finished the book! Your curiosity is all you need to bring.
Who Should Attend?
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Aspiring programmers who want to understand the machine's foundation.
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Experienced tech professionals looking for a fun refresher on core principles.
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Students and hobbyists fascinated by technology.
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Anyone who has ever wondered, "How do computers actually work?"
Moderator
Jay Boisseau, Executive Director, Austin Forum on Technology & Society and CEO, Vizias
Jay Boisseau is an experienced, recognized leader and strategist in advanced computing technologies, with over 25 years in the field. Jay is the executive director and founder of The Austin Forum on Technology & Society, which he created in 2006 and is the leading monthly technology outreach and engagement event in Austin--and now attracts national and international attendees online. The Austin Forum is one of the pillars of the Austin tech scene, providing connections to information, ideas, collaborations, and community overall. In addition, Jay is CEO, co-founder (June 2014), and a partner in Vizias, a small team of passionate professionals with expertise in high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI), technology community building, and technology outreach & event planning. Vizias staff lead, execute, and support the Austin Forum through Vizias Research, Education, and Outreach, a non-profit dedicated to using technology for positive social impact. Jay has held previous leadership positions at Dell Technologies, the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) at The University of Texas at Austin, the San Diego Supercomputer Center and the Arctic Region Supercomputing Center. He received his doctorate in astronomy from UT Austin, and his undergraduate degree in astronomy and physics from the University of Virginia. For Jay's full professional bio, visit here.
Attendance Instructions
Online via Google Meet
Once you register via Eventbrite, you will receive the direct link in your confirmation email. You will also receive the link in a reminder email one day before the event.
Space is limited, so please register only if you’re confident you can attend—and kindly cancel your registration if your plans change so we can open your spot to another participant.
