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No, we're not here to talk about politics! This Congress has an entirely different agenda, one actually designed to accomplish something.  They're the Congress on the Future of Engineering Software (COFES), and they're ramping up for their 11th consecutive annual session. This year's meet takes place once more at the usual venue: the Scottsdale Plaza Resort in sunny Scottsdale, AZ -- and there's still time to get on board.
One of the greatest values provided by this organization, according to its distinguished members, is learning in a forum with like-minded individuals. As you read from their own Web site:
"COFES was founded on the idea that one-on-one interaction and the building of community are the most valuable functions of an industry forum. COFES eschews the distractions of a trade show floor and the formality of executive presentations for a comfortable, causal atmosphere consisting of large and small group discussions with the most influential players and most innovative minds of the software world."
Another key aspect of COFES is their internship programs. One look at a list of just some of the more than one hundred key participants can leave many aspiring software engineers weak in the knees. It is undoubtedly the "Who's Who" of the industry today, including reps from organizations like Raytheon, Hewlett-Packard, Boeing, Microsoft, Northrop Grumman, Autodesk and NASA.
At nearly $2,800.00 a head (not including lodging or travel), the cost is certainly a mitigating factor for some. Attendance also requires an invitation code, which you can still apply to receive. Either way, it is a consideration worthy of investigation and an event of some note.
So work on that handshake and smile, tidy up that resume, and ready yourself for that Congressional hearing.
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