The article features an engaging Q&A with the keynote speakers of PyCon US 2025, showcasing their unique paths into the tech field. Cory Doctorow shares fond memories of growing up with computers, introducing readers to his early experiences with a cardboard computer and using paper towels for printing. Meanwhile, Lynn Root recounts her challenging start in programming, transitioning from a difficult introduction to computer science course to discovering her passion for Python, which ultimately led her to help establish a community for budding programmers through PyLadies SF. Both speakers emphasize the importance of mentorship and community in tech.
CORY DOCTOROW: My father was a computer scientist so we grew up with computers in the house. Our first "computer" was a Cardiac cardboard computer that required a human to move little tokens around in slots.
LYNN ROOT: I started in 2011, learning how to code through an online intro to CS course. It was awful - who thinks C is a good first language? I failed both midterms but somehow finished the course with an A-.
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