11Dec, 2025

The Sitcom-Lovers' Guide to Software Engineering

Summary

In this session we will explore the human side of software engineering - how humour, empathy, and perspective help us thrive in a world dominated by AI. From late-night production fires to real user needs, it’s a witty reminder that great code starts with understanding people.

Guest Speakers

Adam  Scholey

Adam Scholey

About this event

Series 1, Episode 1: Laughter.

It's the best form of medicine. And a valuable solace for those of us assigned yet another Jira ticket with ambiguous Acceptance Criteria...

As AI continues to dominate society, our humanity is becoming ever more crucial to the products we create and the value we deliver. Behind every user story is an actual human who relies on our abilities to empathise, reflect and adapt to their needs.

In this talk, we'll explore the softer, "fuzzier" side of software engineering - why knowing who your F.R.I.E.N.D.S are is crucial to shipping high-quality features; how to retain perspective when you're in The Thick Of It [battling a 3am production fire], and why a little business acumen can supercharge your technical skills in 2025 (Del Boy anyone?)

Whether you're a fellow software engineer, or simply have to put up with us in your day-to-day, we'll Peep (Show) behind the curtain of what makes us far more Kryten than Marvin the Paranoid Android!

Adam Scholey, Senior Backend Engineer
Over the last 10 years, Adam has worked with a wealth of technologies including PHP and Go, leading an engineering team responsible for managing at-scale mission-critical systems, supporting Webby Award-winning apps and mentoring others on their own developer journeys.

This event will finish around 8:15 to allow time for some Xmas drinks across the road in the Cowherds.

Date and time

Thu 11 Dec, 2025
07:00 pm

Location

Concourse, Avenue St Andrew's Church, The Avenue, Southampton