Hey there! If you’re looking to take your AI skills to the next level, AWS has something pretty exciting for you. They’re offering a fantastic opportunity through their AWS Gen AI Lofts initiative. With over ten hubs scattered around the globe, these lofts are all about training and networking, and they’ll be running throughout 2025.
Take it from Haroun Moula, a regular at the San Francisco loft and the brains behind the startup Navoy. He’s found these sessions invaluable. “We build on Amazon Bedrock, and we’re always trying to improve our latency and the accuracy of our generative AI models,” he says. The insights he’s gained have been crucial for his travel booking tool.
AWS is rolling out more than 135 AI/ML training sessions, and they’re open to folks at all experience levels. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been in the game for a while, there’s something for you. This year, founders like Moula can dive into hands-on educational sessions, technical deep dives, and networking events all over the world. From Tel Aviv to Paris, these lofts are buzzing with local startups and industry leaders.
Jon Jones, Global VP of AWS Startups and Venture Capital, really highlights the value of these communities. “Our AWS Gen AI Lofts serve as hubs where established AI leaders and startup founders can strengthen existing connections, and new communities can grow,” he explains.
What can you expect to learn? Well, there’s a lot on the table, from the latest in LLMs to Amazon Bedrock and AI agents. AWS Developer Advocate Antje Barth points out that there’s a big focus on building agentic workflows and applications during these sessions.
And it’s not just about learning; you’ll see some cool demos too. For example, Samir Menon, CEO of Dexterity Inc., showed off how their AI-powered robots are shaking up logistics during a session in San Francisco. “Engaging with serious developers who want to take our technology, build upon it and bring new products to market is very, very exciting for us,” Menon shared.
The lofts are also a goldmine for technical expertise, as startup founder Jeff Ivory discovered. His time at an AWS bootcamp gave him the guidance he needed for his gaming company, GamerXSociety.
Networking is a huge part of the experience. Chris Morris, founder of Rush Roto, found some invaluable investor connections at an AWS bootcamp. “I learned how to pitch to some of the biggest venture capitalists in the world,” he noted.
These lofts are also fantastic for community building. Vanessa Santos, an AWS Community Hero, found her “crew” at the São Paulo loft, where she joined in discussions on various topics, including AWS Skill Builder.
Can’t make it in person? No worries. AWS has you covered with virtual events and online training opportunities, like the “Build your MVP with AWS” learning path. This comprehensive approach ensures anyone interested in AI has the resources to advance their skills.
