Welcome to the in-person AI meetup in Vancouver, in collaboration with Langtrace AI and Improving. Join us for deep dive tech talks on AI, GenAI, LLMs and machine learning, food/drink, networking with speakers and fellow developers.

Agenda:
- 5:00pm~5:30pm: Checkin, food/drink and networking
- 5:30pm~5:40pm: Welcome, Community update
- 5:40pm~7:00pm: Tech talks and Q&A
- 7:00pm~8:00pm: Open discussion and Mixer

Tech Talk: Structured Data Extraction from Images using VLMs, DSPy & Langtrace
Speaker: Karthik Kalyanaraman (Langtrace AI)
Abstract: A gentle introduction to DSPy and how you can use it to build a robust data extraction pipeline by leveraging Vision Language Models(VLM) and use Langtrace for tracing and debugging.

Tech Talk: Enhancing RAG Systems: Practical Strategies for Incremental Optimization
Speaker: Apurva Misra (Sentick)
Abstract: Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) systems are transforming the landscape of natural language processing by integrating retrieval with generation to create highly contextualized responses. Yet, the road to building high-performing RAG systems is fraught with challenges, from optimizing retrieval pipelines to harmonizing them with generation modules. In this talk, we will demystify the process of refining RAG systems through a clear, incremental approach. Participants will gain insights into improving knowledge retrieval accuracy, enhancing the interplay between system components, and addressing hurdles like scaling and response precision. Whether you’re starting out or looking to fine-tune an existing RAG system, this session offers actionable takeaways to elevate its robustness and efficiency.

Speakers/Topics:
Stay tuned as we are updating speakers and schedules. If you have a keen interest in speaking to our community, we invite you to submit topics for consideration: Submit Topics

Venue:
Improving, 116 W 6th Avenue Suite 300 Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1K6
How to find us: buzz "300" at the front intercom panel. Free parking at the behind of the building. Check the Slack/Discord for driving directions, parking info, car pool, etc..

Sponsors:
We are actively seeking sponsors to support AI developers community.  Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or cash sponsorship. Sponsors will not only speak at the meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 5,000+ AI developers in Vancouver or 400K+ worldwide.

Community on Slack/Discord
- Event chat: chat and connect with speakers and attendees
- Sharing blogs, events, job openings, projects collaborations
Join Slack (search and join the #vancouver channel) | Join Discord