Aberdeen Python User Group 11 Dec 2024

"A Selection Box of AI Tools" -Alan Gardner

It's that time of year when we eagerly anticipate selection boxes appearing on supermarket shelves and under Christmas trees across the land. But what if, instead of delicious chocolates, those thin plastic trays were filled with productivity-enhancing AI tools? Well, that would be disappointing, of course. Who in their right mind prefers software tools over chocolate? However, I'm told we're not here to eat chocolate; we should really be doing stuff with Python, and so...

In this talk, we'll explore a selection of AI tools that have significantly impacted my work. We'll examine various chatbots, LLMs, integrations with existing apps, and fully AI-based applications. We'll discuss how these tools harness AI to boost productivity, creativity, and problem-solving.

I'll share personal experiences, demonstrate how I work with these tools, and consider how these AI assistants are shaping our work. Together, we'll sort the Double Deckers from the Fudges... metaphorically speaking, of course.

Bio

Alan is a developer who was drawn to Python from Ruby, Elixir and JavaScript back in 2020 (better late than never!). It's now his goto language for everything from scripting to web apps to its excellent data and AI capabilities. These days, he's exploring the AI world, using Python to get LLMs to do his work for him (and also write most of his Python too).

When he's not trying to cobble together LangChain chains or FastAPI APIs, you can find him playing TTRPGs or kayaking. He's been using LLMs for the former but is still waiting for support for the latter.

After the talk we will have one or more challenges for you to attempt - so bring your laptop! 

If you don’t already have Python set up, we can help you with that too. Coding in pairs or small groups (especially mixing beginner and more experiences coders) is strongly encouraged, though you can also code solo.

This event is orgnanised by a charity - Code The City. CTC suggests a small donation to help with charity admin costs, but if this is a barrier please just change the ticket price to what you can afford.

We're now back to running physical events backed up with an online option.

If you select a physical ticket and it happens that we can not meet physically you will have to attend the Zoom session. If you choose a physical ticket and it goes ahead you will have to comply with any conditions of attendance (eg masks or social distancing) that the venue operators demand at the time.

Those attending the physical space meetup should attend at 6pm for pizza and drinks. The coding session (for online attendees) will be from 6.30pm. Doors will be locked from 6.30pm.

**If tickets are sold out please do not attend as you will be refused entry without a ticket. **

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Photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash