Exploring Chicago and kicking off Microsoft Ignite 2024

After landing in Chicago on Friday night for Microsoft Ignite 2024, I could totally feel the excitement all around! Ignite has always been a big deal for IT Pros, but this year is extra special—it’s the first major in-person Ignite since the pandemic. The vibe of thousands of people coming together to check out Microsoft’s latest announcement and build connections is just amazing.

Exploring Chicago Before the Action Begins

Jetlag had me up early, but I decided to make the most of it by hitting the gym at 5 in the morning and even managed to squee in a morning swim. Staying energized is key for a packed conference week! Later, I took some time to explore Chicago, and it didn’t disappoint. The city’s lively streets, stunning buildings, and vibrant feel set the stage for the week ahead.

I ended up walking 20,000 steps and found out it’s about an hour’s walk from my hotel to the conference. It was a great way to see the city before the full-on Ignite experience began.

Learning

Microsoft Ignite officially kicked off with a bang! Picking up my badge was was smooth despite the thousands of people. The crew was efficient, and soon enough I had my conference swag in the form of a very nice backpack and a reusable metal water bottle featuring the iconic Chicago skyline. Staying hydrated is crucial to keep up with all the sessions.

This year, I’m excited to join sessions on Microsoft’s new tools, AI updates, and the future of work. Ignite is the perfect place to see how these new ideas can make our work easier and more productive.

Networking

One of my favorite things about Ignite is meeting people. Whether it’s catching up with old friends or making new ones, networking is a huge part of the event. If you’re interested in chatting about Microsoft tools, AI, or productivity tips, let’s connect! I’m always up for sharing ideas and learning new things.

Here’s to an Amazing Week Ahead!