Welcome to Miami—WordCamp Miami, that is! This annual WordPress conference is happening this weekend, February 28-March 1, 2020, and we have two WebDevStudios (WDS) team members who will there to experience all that this popular WordPress conference has to offer. They are Brad Williams, WDS CEO, who is not only attending but is also a Community Sponsor, and Alfredo Navas, WDS Frontend Engineer, who is volunteering for the event.
Both Brad and Alfredo have attended WordCamp Miami multiple times and share their insight and interest below. Here’s what they have to say about the conference.
What makes WordCamp Miami special?
“I’ve been to WordCamps all over the world, but there are only a few that stand apart from the rest,” says Brad. “WordCamp Miami is one of those premiere events. I can tell you it’s clear they’ve been doing this for over a decade. The Miami area has an amazing WordPress Community, so it’s no surprise the event is run by extremely passionate organizers and volunteers. What really helps Miami stand out is their attention to small details. Those details are what demonstrate the passion this community has and why WordCamp Miami is one of my favorite events each year.”
Alfredo is based in Costa Rica, so for him, WordCamp Miami is his nearest US WordCamp. It’s just a two-hour flight, making it easy for him to attend. This will be his fourth time. But other than the proximity, why else is WordCamp Miami special to Alfredo? He simply says, “Well, it’s Miami!”
Why get involved with a WordCamp?
As stated earlier, Brad registered as a Community Sponsor, a level of participation that includes a donated ticket to a local high school or college student in honor of the sponsor. “WordCamps are an amazing value, with most tickets ranging between $20-$40,” explains Brad. “Sponsorships are extremely important to help cover the costs of running such a great event. Whether it’s a top-tier sponsor, or smaller community sponsor, every dollar of sponsorship money is critical in organizing a high quality WordCamp.”
It was in 2017 that Alfredo began volunteering for WordCamp Miami. He’s normally assisting with registration and will continue with that tradition, but this year, you can also expect to see his friendly face at the development workshop on Friday and acting as an emcee in the development track. “What inspires me, and it’s the same at all the WordCamps I attend, is connecting with humans,” Alfredo says.
What is there to look forward to at WordCamp Miami?
“It’s always the people,” answers Brad. “I love the hallway track, which includes networking with new and old friends, talking about trends in the industry, hearing what people are working on, and just generally having quality conversations with people passionate about the web, WordPress, and open-source.” Brad adds that he’s also looking forward to sun and warm weather. Alfredo can’t wait for all the development talks.
Tickets to WordCamp Miami are still available, but if you miss out, follow the event’s Twitter profile (@WordCampMiami) and its hashtag (#wcmia2020) to keep up with all that happens. Find a WordCamp near you by going to Central.WordCamp.org.