GDG Hobart: Build with AI & Break Into Security
A two-part GDG Hobart evening at UTAS for 45+ attendees: building analyst agents with BigQuery, then a Q&A with a Google security engineer on breaking into cyber security.
About this event
GDG Hobart hosted Build with AI & Break Into Security on Thursday 5 March 2026, from 5:15 PM to 6:45 PM, in Room 132 of the Centenary Building at the University of Tasmania's Sandy Bay Campus. The free event marked the beginning of GDG Hobart's 2026 program and welcomed students, early-career professionals, developers, and technology enthusiasts interested in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
The event attracted more than 45 attendees and featured two sessions combining technical learning with professional career guidance. Speakers included Thiébaud W., a Senior Security Engineer at Google, and Yash Mehta, who shared their knowledge and experience with the local developer community.
The Build with AI session introduced the development of analyst agents using BigQuery, highlighting how AI technologies can support data analysis and information processing. The session provided attendees with an opportunity to explore the potential applications of AI-powered tools and their relevance to modern software development and data-driven workflows.
The cybersecurity career session, Break Into Security, was presented by Thiébaud W., who discussed different areas of cybersecurity, skills valued by employers, and potential entry points into the profession. Drawing on his industry experience, he offered insights into how students and early-career professionals could approach building their knowledge and preparing for cybersecurity-related roles.
The event encouraged active participation and discussion, including a live question-and-answer session following the cybersecurity career presentation. Attendees also had opportunities to connect with other members of Hobart's technology community. Professor Nicole Herbert, Head of the UTAS School of ICT, acknowledged the strong turnout, while GDG Hobart thanked the university for providing the venue and supporting the event.
For UTAS ICT students, the meetup offered an opportunity to explore emerging AI technologies, gain insights into cybersecurity career pathways, and learn directly from experienced industry professionals. It also demonstrated the value of engaging with local developer communities to develop technical awareness, build professional connections, and explore future opportunities in Tasmania's ICT sector.
References
- GDG Hobart – AI and Cybersecurity Event Recap (LinkedIn) www.linkedin.com
What students said on LinkedIn
Student reflections and posts from the event.
GDG Hobart's recap of an AI and cybersecurity night that almost filled a room in UTAS's Centenary Building, with more than 45 attendees. Speakers Thiébaud W. and Yash Mehta sparked plenty of questions and discussion, and the post thanks UTAS for the venue and the volunteer team.
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