WordCamp brings leading WordPress experts to FIU Feb. 19-21

WordPress is the operating system that runs 25 percent of the web’s top million websites and more than half of websites using a content management system. If you’re online, chances are, you’ve been on a WordPress site (in fact, if you’re reading this on FIU News, you’re on one right now).

And if you’re an entrepreneur, an aspiring developer, or anyone who wants to make their mark in the online world, knowing your way around WordPress can be an enormous asset.

WordPress novices and pros alike can find a treasure trove of valuable information at WordCamp, a three-day event coming to FIU on Feb. 19-21. FIU students, faculty and community members will have access to seminars and experts on everything from sophisticated programming techniques to getting started as a blogger.

What’s more, it’s one of the most affordable tech learning experiences of the year, at $35 for the full two-day conference, with discounts available for FIU students. The tuition includes all seminars, lunches and snacks. Early registrants also have the opportunity to snag a goodie bag.

“We’ll have a full schedule lined up for everyone, from those wanting to learn WordPress for the first time to those who are already skilled at developing with it,” said David Bisset, one of the conference organizers.

Taking a deep dive into the world of WordPress.

The main WordCamp conference takes place on Saturday and Sunday, with talks ranging from how to improve your website’s SEO and security to how to build an e-commerce site with WordPress. There’s also a talk focused on how WordPress is used in higher education. Sunday has a full track dedicated to business owners and agencies, along with a brand new “Learn JavaScript deeply” session for developers.

The College of Business’ Marketing Department is a co-sponsor of the conference, and two faculty members will be leading sessions. Department Chair Anthony Miyazaki will share his tips on repurposing content effectively at a Saturday session, and Nancy Richmond, instructor and advisor for FIU’s Social Media Association, will share her observations of how tech giants like Google and Nike engage online at “Social Media Road Trip: Leadership, Engagement and Community Building,” on Sunday. Members of the Social Media Association will be present at the event.

“I’m speaking this year is because I was sold on the conference when I attended last year,” Miyazaki said. “The speakers are solid. The audience is engaged. And everyone in attendance is extremely helpful.”

WordCamp will also run several auxiliary conferences Friday, Feb 19. There’s a beginners’ class, limited to 100 individuals, that takes participants step-by-step from learning hosting basics to customizing a basic WordPress site of there own. There’s also a full-day freelancer’s conference the same day, with each priced at $15 for the full day.

To bring more pre-teens into the WordPress world, this year’s conference also features several family-friendly features, including a Kid’s Workshop (where parents and kids ages 8-13 can learn to create their first blog), an arts/crafts/STEM class in the afternoon, and a kid’s panel to end the day. Children are welcome to attend both days on the weekend, free of charge.

For more information about WorldCamp, visit the organization’s website. FIU students can use the code FIUWCMIA2016! for a discount on the two-day ($35) conference rate. Those who sign up on or before Feb. 2 will receive a free t-shirt while supplies last.