AnacondaCON 2019 is off to a great start. As in past years, we programmed Day 1 with product- and package-specific tutorials for those looking to get hands-on learning with Anaconda Enterprise tools. Spots in these tutorials were in high demand, with only 100 seats per session to enable closer, more one-on-one instruction. If you weren’t able to join us, here’s a peek at what you missed.
Introduction to Machine Learning (ML) with SciKit Learn
The always dynamic Albert DeFusco, Training Manager at Anaconda, presented a foundational exploration of the machine-learning process and the advantages of using SciKit Learn. DeFusco emphasized how to decide which model to use and why, and what kinds of insights can be gained from predictive statistical analysis.
Practical Data Science and ML with Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)
The other morning tutorial was led by Stan Seibert, Senior Director of Community Innovation at Anaconda, who outlined how data scientists can use Anaconda for GPU-accelerated deep learning from beginning to end. Each attendee was provided with a Tesla P100 cloud GPU to experiment with as Seibert walked them through how to prepare their data, then moved into how to create and train new deep learning models, how to evaluate and improve those models, and ultimately how to prepare the selected model for deployment.
Up & Running with Anaconda Enterprise
Albert DeFusco returned with kind of an “Anaconda Enterprise 101” — a fantastic tutorial for new users looking to supercharge their knowledge and get to work. The session covered the basics of creating projects, installing packages and deploying dashboards so attendees can start taking advantage of Anaconda Enterprise capabilities ASAP.
Scaling Python with Dask
In the final tutorial of the day, Jim Crist, Software Engineer at Anaconda, started attendees out with high-level tools like `dask.dataframe` and `dask.array,` then dove deeper into Dask components. Attendees came away with an understanding of when and how to use Dask in their workflows, and how to reason about parallel performance.
Opening Reception
We officially kicked off our festivities with our Opening Reception Wednesday night. Demos, sponsor showcase, and charcuterie were in full swing to welcome attendees, speakers and sponsors from all around the world.
That’s it for Day 1 of AnacondaCON 2019! We’re fueling up with coffee and tacos here in Austin, enjoying the first full day of sessions. Check back tomorrow morning for our exclusive recap!
