Ilias Papachristos | Altitude Adjust.: Ctrl + Alt + Re-skilling: from Helicopt... | DevFest.cz 2025

Ever wondered what it takes to reinvent your career entirely? This isn't your typical 'Bootcamp to job' story. Join Ilias, a former helicopter pilot, as he shares his decade-long journey from navigating the skies to building intelligent applications with Google Cloud and AI. Ten years ago, a career change felt impossible. But driven by a passion for technology, Ilias embarked on a challenging path to learn programming, master cloud technologies, and ultimately become a Google Developer Expert (GDE) in AI and Google Cloud. This session isn't just about what was learned, but how. We'll dive into: The Transferable Skills: Surprisingly, the discipline, problem-solving, and risk assessment honed in aviation proved invaluable in the world of software development. We'll explore these unexpected connections. Navigating the Learning Curve: From initial coding hurdles to deep dives into machine learning, Ilias will share practical strategies for effective re-skilling, focusing on resources and approaches that worked. Building a Community: The importance of finding mentors, contributing to open source, and engaging with the Google Cloud and AI community. A Pilot's View on AI: How a Background in Complex Systems and Critical Decision-making shapes a unique perspective on the potential – and the responsible development – of Artificial Intelligence. Practical Insights into Google Cloud AI: A glimpse into specific Google Cloud AI services and how they can be leveraged for innovative projects. Whether you're a seasoned developer, a tech enthusiast considering a career shift, or simply curious about the power of re-skilling, this talk will inspire you to embrace change and chart your own course in the ever-evolving world of technology. Prepare for a story that proves it's never too late to learn, adapt, and soar!