Pro Tips for attending AWS re:Invent
? Mayur Palta
GTM | Field Engineering | Competitive Strategist | Board Member | Author | Harvard Business School | Ex-AWS, Ex-Oracle
AWS re:Invent is one of the premier events in the cloud computing space, attracting tens of thousands of attendees from around the globe. As a former Amazonian and fan of AWS's culture of innovation, this will be my 7th re:Invent experience. Having attended re:Invent for the past 10 years (minus pandemic years), I’ve gathered tips and tricks to help you maximize your experience and navigate the whirlwind of activities. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned attendee, these personalized insights will ensure you make the most of your trip:
1. Plan Ahead Like a Pro
AWS re:Invent offers hundreds of sessions, workshops, and activities. Review the event catalog early and identify sessions that align with your goals. Prioritize keynotes and breakout sessions that tackle emerging trends or tools you’re eager to explore. Use the official re:Invent app to plan your schedule—and don’t forget to book early because popular sessions fill up fast! Download the mobile app with a clear schedule planned ahead. Also, download the re:Invent wallpapers to save your phone battery. Link here.
Veteran Tip: Always have a backup session planned in case your first choice fills up or runs late. Flexibility is key to success. Try to schedule sessions in closer vicinity, else you may be in the shuttles across casino venues most of the time during the week.
2. Set Personal and Professional Goals
With so much happening, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re aiming to deepen your technical knowledge, explore new solutions for your organization, or simply network with peers, setting clear goals will keep you focused.
Ask Yourself: What do I want to walk away with? A new skill? A potential partnership? A certification? Seeking mentors? Hiring talent? Solving data and AI silos?
Meet 1:1 with Databricks at the Venetian Grand Lux
Schedule a meeting with one of our data and AI experts at the Venetian Grand Lux
3. Don’t Just Learn—Build
Take advantage of hands-on labs, workshops, and hackathons. These immersive experiences are where ideas turn into tangible skills. Pre-read requirements for workshops and bootcamps to ensure your laptop is ready to go.
Veteran Tip: Early-morning sessions are quieter and often allow more interaction with instructors.
4. Keynotes Are Worth the Early Wake-Up
Keynotes are where AWS unveils its latest innovations. They provide insights into AWS’s strategic direction and offer a roadmap for the future. Don't miss the visionaries at the stadium event on Monday if you are an AI enthusiast. This was last year's line up.
Veteran Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to grab a good seat, or plan to watch from overflow areas for a more relaxed experience.
If your data and AI is fragmented, lacks governance, and is stifling innovation, this session is a must attend.
Also, this year Mastercard (SVP R&D Engineering and SVP, Data Governance) will share how to harness Gen AI's disruptive power. Case study on AWS and Databricks' collaboration to develop a fully governed, end-to-end Gen AI solution. Session details:
5. Network Like a Natural
The people you meet at re:Invent can be as valuable as the sessions you attend. Strike up conversations in line, attend Birds of a Feather sessions, and join after-hours events. You’ll find attendees eager to share their experiences and insights.
Veteran Tip: Keep your LinkedIn QR code handy for quick connections, and don’t hesitate to follow up after the event. If someone shares a physical business card, run. (just kidding)
6. Conquer the Expo Hall Strategically
The Expo Hall is massive and packed with AWS partners showcasing cutting-edge solutions. Plan your visit by identifying vendors or partners in advance. It’s also a great place to ask direct questions and gather valuable resources.
This year, I’ll be at the Databricks booth 1820 (right next to the GenAI Pavillion), and I’d love to connect! Ready to become a data + AI company? Let’s discuss how Databricks can accelerate your data transformation journey.
Find me during these times or drop me a private message:
Pro Tip: Swing by early to grab swag and ensure you have enough time for a deep dive into our tools and resources. Check out Databricks at re:Invent.
More details here.
Veteran Tip: Visit the booths early in the week before crowds peak. Take photos of anything that catches your eye so you can follow up later.
7. Stay Comfortable and Energized
Las Vegas is vast, and re:Invent venues are spread out. Wear your most comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and take breaks to recharge. Don’t hesitate to skip a session if you need to rest—your well-being is essential for soaking in all the knowledge.
Veteran Tip: Keep a reusable water bottle and some snacks handy for those long days. Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry chapstick, stay hydrated with electrolytes or high pH value water.
8. Maximize Certification Opportunities
Considering an AWS certification? There’s no better place to take the plunge. Certification sessions at re:Invent allow you to validate your skills and add a credential to your profile.
Veteran Tip: Plan your study time before the event and schedule exams for the final day to make the most of your week.
9. Engage with the Community on Social Media
Join the broader conversation on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Use the hashtag #reInvent to share insights, photos, and favorite moments. Engaging online can help you connect with attendees you might not meet in person. Not sure how I reached this milestone of 10,000 followers on LinkedIn. Perhaps, has something to do with being a consistent attendee of AWS re:Invent conferences over the years among several others.
Veteran Tip: Share key takeaways from sessions in real-time. It’s a great way to document your experience and grow your network.
My only stardom moment has been in the same picture frame as Andy Jasy and Matt Garman.
10. Reflect and Act
After re:Invent, review your notes, connect with the people you met, and share your learnings with your team. Actionable steps and follow-ups ensure the value of re:Invent continues long after the event ends.
Veteran Tip: Create a top-five list of takeaways and set a plan to implement them within the next month. Try to bring back re:Invent key takeaways and learnings back to your organization. Do a brief with your team and peers. They will vouch for you attending again next year. :-)
AWS re:Invent is more than an event; it’s an experience that shapes careers and drives innovation. I look forward to connecting with you, whether at the Databricks booth or around the event. Safe travels, and see you in Las Vegas!
Sr. Director of Product for AI/ML @Databricks / Ex-Google / Ex-Amazon
2 天前These are great, slightly more tactically I would add: Comfortable Walking Shoes, Waterbottle, And Chapstick! Remember you are in the desert!