Join us at BITS 2024—the Bletchley Institute’s Technology Summit, a one-day event designed for those passionate about technology and creativity.
Hosted in partnership with Flatiron School, BITS unites experts and emerging talent to explore the latest advancements in AI, data science, software engineering, design, and game development.
Whether you're looking to advance your career or stay on top of new trends, BITS 2024 brings together experienced professionals and emerging talent for an entire day of learning and connection.
Over the course of the day, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with the brightest minds in tech, engage in thought-provoking sessions, and be part of a community that's driving change and creating the future. Don’t miss your chance to grow, network, and shape what’s next—this is where your next big idea could begin!
Prepare to hear from a diverse lineup of industry experts who are making waves in technology, AI, gaming, and beyond. At BITS 2024, you’ll have the chance to learn from leaders who bring their real-world experiences to the table. This is not just about learning—it's an opportunity to geek out with like-minded individuals and build connections within a vibrant community of innovators and creators.
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Don't miss out on the future of tech.
Register today for BITS 2024.
Explore our growing lineup of lightning sessions, panel discussions, and workshops focused on the practical applications of technology, innovative solutions to today’s challenges, and emerging trends in the industry. Whether you're interested in machine learning, game design, or career development, BITS 2024 provides a platform to learn directly from industry leaders and connect with fellow professionals who share your passion.
This is your opportunity to expand your skills, explore new ideas, and make meaningful connections—don’t miss out!
Michi Yamamoto is an AI Architect specializing in the intersection of artificial intelligence and game mechanics. As the Founding Engineer at sound.fan, Michi focuses on designing innovative AI-driven solutions that enhance user experiences and drive strategic business outcomes. Michi has a strong track record in the AI and user experience space, having organized and hosted several events for the AI Meets User Experience meetup group and continuing to foster valuable discussions and showcase cutting-edge developments in the field.
Lili Notovitz is a product designer and strategist, passionate about creating platforms that foster human connection, AI literacy, and social impact. Equipped with a UX/UI Design Certificate from Springboard and a degree in Psychology and Digital Media Marketing from the University of Maryland, Lili has led projects in industries ranging from climate tech to cybersecurity, driving innovation through research, design, and strategic execution.
Jessica Garson is a Python programmer, educator, and artist. She currently works at Elastic as a Senior Developer Advocate. Previously, Jessica was at Twitter for four years, working in Developer Relations. She has spoken at conferences all over the globe, ranging from PyCon to Write the Docs. In her spare time, she uses code and modular synthesizers to make music and audio-reactive video art.
Shafik Quoraishee is a Senior Android Engineer on the New York Times Games Team, where he plays a key role in integrating popular games like Wordle, Connections, and the NYT Crossword into the NYT Games Android app. With a strong background in artificial intelligence, Shafik has several years of experience in the field, including published research that has been applied across various real-world systems, from civilian to government applications. His expertise in both mobile development and AI makes him a distinguished speaker on technology and innovation.
Steven Reubenstone is a product engineer, product manager, and startup founder with over seven years of experience building social networking and educational platforms. He founded UpskillHero, a microlearning platform designed to help users identify and fill key knowledge gaps that may be hindering their career growth. Through AI-driven, self-discovery prompts, UpskillHero creates personalized learning paths that continuously adapt as users share their life goals and passions. Additionally, guidance from other users is integrated into learning tracks when flagged as valuable by the AI.
Previously, Steven founded Collaborizm, an online incubator for inventors and engineers, which grew to over 62,000 monthly active users. He is also the author of the educational fantasy novel, The Nestomir, which embeds coding instruction within its story and is used as a teaching tool in the U.K. In addition, Steven has led innovation projects at Reckitt and developed full-stack applications for various clients.
Adam Schroeder is a Community Manager at Plotly Technologies, where he supports the growth and engagement of the Plotly Dash user community. His efforts have contributed to 3 million monthly downloads of Dash, the leading Data App Platform for Python. Prior to joining Plotly, Adam taught Plotly Dash on YouTube as @CharmingData, attracting over 60,000 views per month. He also co-authored The Book of Dash, a guide for building effective dashboards. At Plotly, Adam continues to foster a vibrant community around interactive, scientific data visualization.
Michael is a Design Leader, Tech Strategist, Founder, and Educator with over 10 years of experience working in tech. He's the Founder and CEO of Rita Group, an ed-tech company supporting tech career seekers through various initiatives including Rita Lab, Rita ABC, and Rita XYZ. Throughout his career, Michael has led design and tech teams with his latest role being Director of Product Design at Heady, a consultancy building digital products. Michael has worked with many companies, small and large, including NYC, NPR, Meta, and more. Michael is also an Adjunct Professor at CUNY with over 5 years of teaching experience.
Ash Ryan Arnwine is Director of Developer Relations at Nylas, where he leads the Developer Advocacy and Documentation teams. Previously, Ash led the Developer Experience team for Adobe Creative Cloud. A committed JavaScript and OpenAPI enthusiast, Ash loves tinkering on Node.js API servers and exploring the edges of AI's impact on APIs and the developers who use them. He’s also co-host of I'd Rather Be Scripting, a podcast dedicated to exploring the fun side of developer technology, and co-organizer of the Astoria Tech Meetup in Queens, NYC.
Daniel Burdeno is an educator with a passion for introducing new students to the tech industry through Data Science. With over 6 years of experience in nonprofit marine environmental conservation, Daniel has a deep commitment to protecting the environment. His academic background includes extensive studies in biology, conservation, and statistics, which have fueled his dedication to both education and environmental advocacy. Daniel’s unique blend of expertise in conservation and data science allows him to bridge the gap between environmental work and technology, making a meaningful impact in both fields.
Felicia Reyes is a brand strategist and co-founder of Let’s Get Weird, a studio focused on innovative brand and culture strategies. Previously the Creative Director at West Ventures, she specializes in aligning brand strategy with business goals for tech, venture, and portfolio companies. Felicia now teaches brand strategy at Parsons School of Design and will be a visiting instructor at Boston Conservatory at Berklee in Fall 2024, focusing on personal branding for musicians. Her innovative approach to branding continues to make waves in the industry, reflecting her commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional brand strategy.
Martin Chmelik is a Software Engineer at Google, contributing to a safer online experience through his work on the SafeSearch team, specifically focusing on combating Image Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA). He received the Search Tech Impact Award in 2021 for his contributions. Before joining Google, Martin earned his PhD from IST Austria, where he received the Outstanding Thesis Award in 2016, and holds a Master's degree from Masaryk University.
Yiyi is a community organizer, artist, and human rights lawyer based in Brooklyn. As a queer immigrant woman of color, she is deeply committed to advocating for diverse and supportive communities in the gaming industry. Currently, she serves as the PR + Community Manager at Heart Machine, the LA-based studio behind Hyper Light Drifter and Solar Ash. Yiyi is also on the Board of Directors for GUMBO Collective, the Vice President of Death By Audio Arcade, and an advisor for the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment Digital Games Industry Council. Additionally, she runs Women in Games NYC, a professional networking group for women and femme people in the industry. In her free time, Yiyi contributes as a graphic designer for Qweerty Gamers and works as an attorney, assisting asylum seekers and refugees in gaining safety and status in the United States.
Jyro Blade is a game developer based in Brooklyn. Currently the Product Lead for PlayFi, he has previously worked as a Senior Engineer on AimLabs and led development for award-winning titles Killer Queen and Kleptocrat at BumbleBear Games. Jyro also creates unique artwork for commercial clients, focusing on interactive installations. He is an active member of GUMBO, where he organizes educational collaborations, professional networking events, and exchange programs with collectives worldwide.
Guligena Aierken is a Software Engineer at JPMorganChase with a strong background in public speaking and college recruitment. She has delivered impactful presentations and led discussions that emphasize company culture, career opportunities, and the benefits of joining JPMorganChase. Guligena's ability to connect with students and communicate key messages has made her a valued speaker in internal company events. Her experience in engaging with diverse audiences and representing her company professionally makes her a standout voice in the tech industry.
Steven Reubenstone is a product engineer, product manager, and startup founder with over seven years of experience building social networking and educational platforms. He founded UpskillHero, a microlearning platform designed to help users identify and fill key knowledge gaps that may be hindering their career growth. Through AI-driven, self-discovery prompts, UpskillHero creates personalized learning paths that continuously adapt as users share their life goals and passions. Additionally, guidance from other users is integrated into learning tracks when flagged as valuable by the AI.
Previously, Steven founded Collaborizm, an online incubator for inventors and engineers, which grew to over 62,000 monthly active users. He is also the author of the educational fantasy novel, The Nestomir, which embeds coding instruction within its story and is used as a teaching tool in the U.K. In addition, Steven has led innovation projects at Reckitt and developed full-stack applications for various clients.
Chase Rabenn is a full-stack developer at JPMorgan Chase, where he works on the company’s only voice application used by all customer service specialists. He entered the tech world in 2020 after joining the software engineering cohort at Flatiron School. There, he discovered the value of asking for help and building a strong sense of community. Upon completing the program, he became a coach at Flatiron, where he nurtured a culture of collaboration and support among students from diverse backgrounds.
Chase later joined JPMorgan through their early career program and served as the community lead for the Jersey City office for two years. He remains passionate about fostering inclusive environments both in and out of the workplace.
When he’s not coding, Chase enjoys spending time with his fiancée, Hadar, their dog, Teddy, and catching up on TV shows.
Roya is a research scientist specializing in advancing artificial intelligence technologies. With a PhD in Electrical Engineering, she holds a US patent and has numerous publications in leading journals on electrical engineering, mathematics, and AI. Her primary research focuses on generative AI, computer vision, and pattern recognition, and she has developed machine learning solutions for healthcare, assistive technologies, and security.
Passionate about science and women's rights, Roya is a Google Developer Expert and Cloud Champion in AI/ML, a Google Women’s Techmaker Ambassador, and a co-organizer of the Google Developer Group (Cloud Boston). Through these roles, she empowers women and non-binary individuals in the workplace.
Tim Spann is a Principal Developer Advocate at Zilliz, where he focuses on technologies such as Milvus, Towhee, GPTCache, Generative AI, Python, Java, and various Apache tools like NiFi, Kafka, and Pulsar. With over a decade of experience in IoT, big data, and distributed computing, Tim has held key roles at Cloudera, StreamNative, and HPE. He also runs a popular Big Data meetup in Princeton & NYC, frequently speaking at conferences like ApacheCon, Pulsar Summit, and DeveloperWeek. In addition to his work, Tim is an active contributor to DZone as the Big Data Zone leader. He holds a BS and MS in computer science.
Chanel is a Chemist and Mathematician turned Machine Learning Engineer, passionate about enhancing user experiences with trained model technologies. In May 2020, she founded the Mentor Me Collective to empower first-generation technologists with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their passions, achieve their dreams, and make a positive societal impact through mentorship and education. The Collective has grown to over 30,000 members across four continents.
Under her leadership, Chanel has helped over 400 first-generation individuals secure six-figure tech careers, totaling over $30 million in compensation. Known for her engaging conference sessions, she has spoken at prestigious events and is dedicated to uplifting various tech communities, focusing on amplifying first-generation representation. Her mission is to cultivate community, develop talent, and raise awareness of careers in the tech industry.
Abhineet Kulkarni is a Senior Data Science Instructor at Flatiron School, where he has spent the past five years, with the last three focused on enterprise upskilling. He has worked with major clients like HSBC and Deloitte, delivering month-long programs that help professionals enhance their skills in data science and AI. Abhineet’s expertise lies in empowering individuals and organizations to navigate the evolving tech landscape through targeted education and practical insights.
Brandon has over ten years of experience as a technology leader in education, working extensively with Charter schools and Prep for Prep, most recently serving as Director of Technology. In 2016, he founded a company focused on bringing virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) experiences to local communities through events and virtual engagements. This venture reignited his passion for gaming and community-building, which he now channels through Video Game Amateurs. He has collaborated with organizations like Meta, Red Bull, the NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, the Department of Education, Warner Media Group, HITN, and Nike, using gaming to foster connections within communities.
Lisa is a data engineer turned product manager with a focus on observability, validation, and reliability in data systems. At Datastrato, she is driving innovation by developing new use cases for leveraging metadata in AI stacks for DataOps and Data Fabric integrations. She is a Google Women Techmakers Ambassador, Continuous Delivery Foundation Ambassador, and a recipient of the Linux Foundation LiFT scholarship for Women in Open Source. Lisa also serves on several boards and committees, including the Linux Foundation’s LF AI & Data and OPEA.
Chinedu Echeruo is a serial entrepreneur and founder of the Beloved Ecosystem, focused on creating AI-powered startups to drive inclusive wealth globally. His DICE model merges human and artificial intelligence for collective innovation, with a goal of building a $25 billion ecosystem in ten years. Echeruo’s first startup, Talented, uses AI to connect youth with apprenticeships, aiming to generate 5,000 jobs and $5 billion in community wealth. He previously founded HopStop, acquired by Apple, and Tripology. Echeruo holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and graduated with honors from Syracuse University.
Alon Grinshpoon is the CEO and co-founder of echo3D, where he's pioneering the next frontier in 3D, AR, and VR technology. A Techstars alum and mentor, Alon holds an MS in Computer Science from Columbia University, specializing in immersive tech, and a BS in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering with a focus on cloud technology. Before launching echo3D, he honed his skills at NVIDIA and made significant contributions as a 3D UI researcher. Alon has captivated audiences at CES, SXSW, Augmented World Expo (AWE), NYVR, and more, sharing insights on the future of interactive and virtual experiences.
Angelica Spratley is a passionate Data Scientist with over 5 years of experience in the data space. With a unique blend of 7 years in education and 3 years in edtech, Angelica brings deep domain expertise and technical acumen to her work. She excels in leveraging tools like SAS, SQL, Python, and Tableau to extract actionable insights and has a proven track record of developing machine learning models, including NLP models, time series forecasts, and recommendation systems.
Angelica is dedicated to promoting data literacy and addressing issues of data equity and bias. She frequently shares her expertise through engaging talks, workshops, and educational content, including a her YouTube channel. Her leadership experience spans managing teams and collaborating with stakeholders to create impactful data and AI curriculum content.
Japneet Kaur is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 14 years of experience in software development, enterprise management, and data governance. She holds three Master's degrees, including an MBA in Finance, Marketing, and a Master's in Cybersecurity from Columbia University. In addition to her technical expertise, Japneet is an award-winning artist and illustrator, recognized for her work with the United Nations and ISACA NY's She Leads Tech. She has led creative leadership sessions for Fortune 500 companies and serves as an adjunct professor at Baruch CUNY and NYIT, blending her passions for cybersecurity, education, and the arts.
We’re super excited to welcome you to BITS 2024, where we’re all about great ideas, learning, and making meaningful connections. To keep things running smoothly and ensure everyone has an awesome time, we ask that you follow this simple guide.
We’re all here to learn, grow, and geek out over tech, but let's keep it respectful. Here’s what we expect:
We’re excited to bring together people from all walks of life. So, whether you're chatting during a session, networking, or grabbing coffee, treat others with kindness and respect. Harassment, discrimination, or any behavior that makes someone feel uncomfortable will not be tolerated. This is a space for learning, connecting, and growing—let’s keep it that way.
We encourage lively debates and sharing bold ideas, but remember—there’s a time and place for everything. Please keep conversations and behavior professional. This is a tech conference, not a late-night comedy show, so steer clear of inappropriate jokes, comments, or conduct.
Got an opinion? Awesome. Just make sure it’s shared in a respectful way that adds to the conversation. No one likes a mic-hog, so let’s keep it collaborative and engaging.
We get it—networking is key. But before you snap a photo or get too close for comfort, ask first. Boundaries are a thing, let’s honor them.
We’ve got a lot going on, so be sure to follow any instructions from event staff or security. It helps us help you have a better experience.
If something feels off, say something. Report any issues to a member of our team, and we’ll handle it discreetly. You can find us at the Help Desk or email us at info.bits@bletchley.org. We’re here to help and will take action if necessary—whether that’s a quiet word or, in serious cases, removing someone from the event.
We’re all about keeping things safe and sound. Here’s what you need to know:
If there’s an emergency, don’t panic. Follow the event staff's lead, head to the nearest exit, and stay calm. You’ll find emergency exits clearly marked all over the venue.
Feeling under the weather? Please stay home and rest up. If you’re here, hand sanitizers are stationed around the venue, so feel free to use them. And give people space if they need it—everyone’s got their own comfort zone.
We’re not offering storage for personal items, so be sure to pack light and keep your things with you. It’s a tech conference, so laptops and gadgets are fair game—just don’t bring everything you own. And keep an eye on your gear!
We want BITS 2024 to be accessible for everyone. If you’ve got any specific needs, let us know ahead of time or visit the Help Desk, and we’ll make sure you’re taken care of.
If you lose something (or find something that isn’t yours), head over to the Help Desk. We’ll do our best to reunite you with your lost items.
Our friendly team will be around throughout the event to keep things safe. If they ask you to do something, please cooperate. They’re just here to help make sure everyone has a good time.
If anyone can’t follow the rules, we’ll have to take action, which could mean:
Thanks for helping us create an amazing, respectful space at BITS 2024! Let’s make this a memorable and fun event for everyone.
We’re thrilled that you’re interested in being part of the Bletchley Institute’s Technology Summit (BITS 2024). Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your experience at our inaugural conference.
BITS 2024 is the inaugural conference for the Bletchley Institute, bringing together a diverse group of professionals, enthusiasts, and thought leaders in technology. The event is designed to foster meaningful connections, share cutting-edge knowledge, and celebrate the latest advancements in technology.
BITS 2024 will be held on October 25, 2024 at the Flatiron School, conveniently located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. The campus is easily accessible via subway, PATH train and the Staten Island Ferry, with great views of Battery Park, NYC’s oldest public park.
BITS 2024 is open to anyone interested in technology, including professionals, students, educators, and enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced tech professional or just starting out, BITS 2024 offers valuable opportunities to learn, network, and grow.
To register, please visit our registration page. Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot soon!
Your registration includes access to all sessions, workshops, a round of drinks on us, and networking events throughout the day. Lunch and refreshments during the conference are included.
We are not offering lodging for attendees. However, there are many hotels and lodging options nearby in Lower Manhattan. We recommend booking early to secure the best rates.
Absolutely! Networking is a key part of the BITS 2024 experience. We have scheduled multiple networking sessions, including coffee breaks, lunch, and a dedicated networking event to help you connect with other attendees and speakers.
BITS 2024 will feature a variety of sessions and workshops covering topics such as artificial intelligence, data science, design, game development, software development, and more. A detailed schedule is available above.
We’re always looking for passionate and knowledgeable speakers to share their insights with our attendees. If you’re interested in speaking, please complete our speaker application form.
There will be no livestream or full recordings of the event. However, highlights and key moments will be shared on our social media channels and our website after the event.
The dress code for BITS 2024 is casual. Our team will be rocking t-shirts, so feel free to dress comfortably!
Yes, Wi-Fi will be available throughout the venue for all attendees. Wi-Fi details will be provided upon check-in at the event.
Yes, you can transfer your registration to another person if you can no longer attend. Please contact info.bits@bletchley.org with the details of the person you wish to transfer your registration to.
Please note that there are no cancellations or refunds for BITS 2024. All sales are final.
Yes, we have several sponsorship packages available for organizations looking to support BITS 2024 and gain visibility among our attendees. For more information, please contact our sponsorship team at sponsorships@bletchley.org.
Yes, in addition to the scheduled sessions and workshops, there will be networking events and social gatherings to help you connect with other attendees and explore the local area. Details will be shared as we get closer to the event.
We recommend joining our free Discord community, subscribing to our newsletter, and following us on social media for the latest updates and announcements regarding BITS 2024.
Yes, we will provide meal options to accommodate different dietary needs. Please indicate any dietary restrictions during the registration process.
We strive to make BITS 2024 an inclusive and accessible event for all attendees. If you have any specific accessibility needs, please let us know during the registration process or contact our event team at info.bits@bletchley.org so we can make appropriate arrangements.
BITS 2024 is a ticketed event with limited space, and each attendee must be registered individually. Guests are not allowed to attend sessions or events without a paid registration. We encourage you to secure your ticket early to ensure your spot!
You are welcome to bring a laptop or notebook for taking notes. Please note that the breakout sessions will be set up in a stadium-style arrangement without desks, so it may be more comfortable to bring a smaller notebook or tablet for easy note-taking.
The event will start with a morning keynote, followed by multiple breakout sessions. Lunch will be provided, and the afternoon will feature additional sessions. We’ll wrap up with a happy hour at a nearby venue. A more detailed schedule is available in PDF form.
Dedicated parking will not be available. However, the venue is conveniently located near many subway and bus stops. We encourage attendees to use public transportation to get to the event.
BITS 2024 is brought to you in partnership with Flatiron School and Bletchley Institute.
