From Bootcamp to Project Manager

This video features Keanya Phelps at DjangoChat 2026 .

Keanya is a project manager at Caktus Group and Chair of DjangoCon US this year. We discuss her transition into coding via a bootcamp, working as a software engineer, using AI on the job, and her current role as a project manager.

🔗 Links

Behind the Curtain as a Conference Chair blog post https://www.caktusgroup.com/blog/2025/11/12/behind-the-curtain-as-a-conference-chair/
DjangoCon US Conference Chair https://2025.djangocon.us/news/conference-chair/
DjangoCon US Opening Remarks https://youtu.be/BrfqJrDbBJg?si=7zHqKpAoz0mrugET
DjangoCon US Closing Remarks https://youtu.be/z0aZtG47GTA?si=6AmXyE41Cq--O6vs) at DjangoCon US
PG Data 2026 Conference https://www.postgresql.org/about/event/pg-data-2026-2551/
DjangoCon US: Call for Venue Proposals 2027-28 https://www.defna.org/announcements/2025/9/10/djangocon-us-call-for-venue-proposal-2027/

📦 Projects

django-crontask https://github.com/codingjoe/django-crontask

📚 Books

Just Use Postgres book https://www.manning.com/books/just-use-postgres
Until the End of Time book https://www.amazon.com/Until-End-Time-Evolving-Universe/dp/1524731676

🎥 YouTube

YouTube Channel: @djangochat https://www.youtube.com/@djangochat

Sponsor

This episode was brought to you by Buttondown: https://buttondown.com/django)
Buttondown is the easiest way to start, send, and grow your email newsletter. New customers can save 50% off their first year using the coupon code DJANGO Buttondown https://buttondown.com/django

Note: We understand that names change, people change, and bodies change. We respect each individual's journey and privacy. If you have any concerns about a video or need us to remove content, please don't hesitate to contact us. We will handle your request with care and promptly address any issues.